U.S. job growth turns sluggish

Job growth that appeared promising earlier this year has turned sluggish. According to the latest Labor Department Estimates, nonfarm payrolls grew only 80,000 in June as the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 8.2 percent. What initially was estimated as a gain of 69,000 jobs in May was revised upward to 77,000. But the estimate for […]

Colorado business leaders less upbeat

An index tracking optimism among Colorado business leaders reflects a less upbeat outlook for the third quarter, but positive expectations nonetheless. The Leeds Business Confidence Index fell nearly nine points from the second quarter. But at 53.6, the index remains higher than the 10-year average and still signals positive expectations overall. “While third-quarter data show […]

Colorado business index advances

A monthly index tracking business conditions in Colorado has rebounded from a seven-month low on improving job growth and increased spending in the energy sector. The Business Conditions Index rose in June to 58.6, nearly three points above the reading for May, the lowest level since October. “Colorado’s job additions for 2012 are 10,000 greater […]

Working with Grand Junction Incubator Center & Small Business Development Center

By Annalisa Pearson             The Business Incubator Center is a non-profit organization that has 25 years of proven experience generating tangible results in expanding and diversifying Mesa County’s economy. The Center offers comprehensive services to businesses through the collaborative efforts of four programs. The Business Incubator Center provides business coaching […]

Landing a government contract

Jose Martinez, SBA Government Contracting           For many small businesses, the process of trying to obtain a government contract is fraught with fears of red tape and endless reporting requirements. Yes, the process can be challenging, but doing work for the government doesn’t have to be difficult. You have to work […]

504 Loan Refinancing Program

Temporary 504 Loan Refinancing for Eligible Small Business Assets Under the Jobs Act. Special to The Business Times from the SBA Market research shows that a large percentage of commercial mortgages outstanding are set to mature within the next few years, particularly those held by community banks. As real estate values have declined, however, even […]

Mortgage firm names top producer

Terrie Higgins was honored as the top producer at Guild Mortgage Co. in Grand Junction for the first quarter of 2012. Higgins had the most closed transactions as well as the largest volume of loans closed. Higgins joined Guild Mortgage in May 2011 and brought with her more than 30 years of experience in banking […]

Counselor expands art therapy practice

A Grand Junction counselor has expanded her art therapy practice. Joni Beckner has received her License in Professional Counseling and become a provider for Rocky Mountain Health Plans and Aetna. Her practice, ArtLight Therapy & Studios, is located in the Doc Shore House at 327 N. Seventh St., No. 5. Beckner offers contract art therapy […]