Exports of agricultural products from Colorado remain well ahead of last year with increases in the exports of meat, dairy and baking-related products. “Colorado’s farmers, ranchers and food processors are helping Colorado return to a strong, diverse economy,” said John Salazar, the state agriculture commissioner. “I am confident that our continued focus on expanding exports […]
It’s official: Come August, Mesa State College becomes Colorado Mesa University. Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper signed into law legislation granting Mesa State College university status and changing its name to Colorado Mesa University effective Aug. 10. “This is the moment when the transition happens,” Hickenlooper said at a signing ceremony at the College Center. “It […]
A new hotel has opened in downtown Grand Junction. The SpringHill Suites by Marriott adds a third property and 100 more rooms to the accommodations owned and operated by Kevin and Steve Reimer. The Reimers also operate Main Street Suites and the Hampton Inn. Brian King, senior vice president of select service and extended stay […]
While Mesa County continues to experience one of the highest property foreclosure rates among metropolitan counties in Colorado, foreclosure activity dropped in May over levels reported last year. Foreclosure filings fell more than 4 percent in May compared to the same month last year. Foreclosure sales dropped nearly 37 percent. In addition, filings and sales […]
Do you remember what prompted you to go into business for yourself? Have you stayed true to that initial vision? Do you even have a vision for your business? Challenging economic times require a clearly defined company vision and a well thought out strategy to achieve that vision. Successful business owners and executives understand that […]
Although I’m relatively new to the U.S. Small Business Administration, I’m not new to the issues facing small businesses. I operated a family owned office furniture store in Fargo, N.D., for more than 30 years. While the business survived the recession, it continues to face many challenges, including access to capital. The recent economic downturn […]
The federal government purchases more than $115 billion worth of goods and services each year from small business prime contractors. By law, the government must buy no less than 23 percent from small businesses. To be successful in federal contracting, you need to keep up with the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). For more information, log on […]
Starting a business during turbulent economic times poses an extremely challenging task. Experience shows that startup business owners have a better chance of succeeding if they follow a few critical steps. By studying why startup businesses fail, it’s possible to establish creative and innovative ways for entrepreneurs to avoid pitfalls. Research conducted by the U.S. […]
The U.S. Small Business Administration 504 loan program — one designed to finance the purchase, improvement or construction of a commercial building — has become somewhat of a bread and butter loan program for small business expansion as it’s considered a win-win-win for all three parties involved. The loan structure for a 504 is commonly […]
Small business owners know collecting overdue accounts is especially difficult during a down economy. It’s not the most pleasant part of being an entrepreneur. But not handling collections expeditiously endangers cash flow and long-term viability. Here are six steps to make the collection process less stressful and more effective: Avoid late payments: Establish a standard […]