Oh Hey Friends
Be Part of Chaffee County’s Vibrant Economic Future
Tucked in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Chaffee County blends small-town character with forward-thinking innovation. Anchored by the vibrant communities of Salida, Buena Vista, and Poncha Springs, this region thrives on a spirit of entrepreneurship, collaboration, and mountain living at its finest.
Here, the Arkansas River winds through historic downtowns, while world-class trails, peaks, and open spaces fuel both lifestyle and business growth. Chaffee County offers an attainable cost of living, strong workforce talent, and an expanding network of innovative companies across tech, outdoor recreation, advanced manufacturing, and the creative industries.
Whether you’re launching a startup, scaling an established business, or investing in new ventures, Chaffee County is where rural roots meet modern opportunity. Bring your business where the mountains move you.
Investing in Impact. Fueling the Future Together.
As an investor in the Chaffee County EDC, you guide our work and help grow the economy for everyone.
We also apply for private and public grants to sustain our operations.
There are many benefits to joining the EDC. Aside from investing in the future of Chaffee County…here are just a few ways that benefit your company…
Fueling The Future Together
Invest in the Future of Chaffee County
Networking, Conferences, Launch Parties
Connect, Learn & Toast
From networking happy hours and launch events to lunch and learns and full-scale conferences, our events bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders. Each gathering is designed to spark ideas, build relationships, and strengthen Chaffee County’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Get the Latest on Events, Insights, and Opportunities
Meet our amazing team and join us.
Our board of directors are dedicated to helping your business grow
Our Board unites community leaders and entrepreneurs whose vision and guidance drive innovation and opportunity across Chaffee County.
Carlin Walsh
Elevation Beer Company
Charlie Chupp
Fading West
Jeff Post
First Colorado Land Office/Century 21
Joe Smith
Collegiate Peaks Bank
Jon Byer
Sangre de Cristo Electric Association
Patrick McCarty
Comfurt Gas
John Tucker
Heart of the Rockies Medical Center
Thomas Moltz
Moltz Construction
Casey Martin
JVAM Law
Georgie Craig
Salida CO LLC
Jon Byer
Sangre de Cristo Electric Association
Dave Blazer
The Trailhead
Ben Cairns
Colorado Mountain College
Brian Berger
Town of Buena Vista
Christy Doon
City of Salida
Lance Hostetter
Town of Poncha Springs
PT Wood
Chaffee County Government
Dream Big. Build Here. Innovate in Chaffee County.
Grow Your Business in the Heart of the Rockies
Join the Chaffee County EDC and become part of a thriving network of entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders driving growth across the Rockies. Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding operations, or relocating your business, we’ll connect you with the right resources, partnerships, and opportunities to help you succeed.
As a member, you’ll gain access to expert advising, workforce and site development support, regional data insights, and a collaborative ecosystem dedicated to sustainable economic growth. Discover what it means to build — and belong — in Chaffee County.
What They’re Saying
Community Testimonials
“The Chaffee County EDC has been an incredible partner in helping us grow our business. From connecting us with mentors and investors to providing hands-on support with permitting and workforce solutions, their team has made a real difference. We wouldn’t be where we are today without their guidance and commitment to local entrepreneurs.”– Alex Martinez, Founder of Summit Tech Solutions
“Partnering with the Chaffee County EDC gave us the confidence and connections we needed to expand. Their team truly understands the challenges rural businesses face and provides practical solutions that make growth possible.”— Sarah Collins, Owner of Riverbend Outdoor Co.
“The support we’ve received from the Chaffee County EDC has been invaluable. They not only opened doors to funding and partnerships but also helped us feel truly connected to the community. It’s rare to find that combination of professionalism and genuine care.”
— Michael Reynolds, Co-Founder of Alpine Innovations
In The News
Explore articles, stories, and expert perspectives from industry leaders.




