ExxonMobil and Employees Donate Almost $50 Million to U.S. Colleges and Universities

News Release

CONTACT:     ExxonMobil Media Relations

                        972-940-6007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 Monday, May 21, 2018

ExxonMobil and Employees Donate Almost $50 Million to U.S. Colleges and Universities

·       Almost 840 educational institutions to receive funds from a program that triple matches employee donations

·       More than $665 million donated since program began in 1962

·       Recipient organizations encouraged to support math and science initiatives

IRVING, Texas--ExxonMobil and its employees are donating $49.8 million to almost 840 institutions of higher education across the country as part of the ExxonMobil Foundation’s 2017 Educational Matching Gift Program.

ExxonMobil employees, retirees, directors and surviving spouses contributed $16.9 million, which was matched with $32.9 million in unrestricted grants from the ExxonMobil Foundation.

The program matches donor pledges 3:1 up to $7,500 to qualified colleges and universities in the United States, along with the American Indian College Fund, Hispanic Scholarship Fund and the United Negro College Fund. Since the Educational Matching Gift Program began in 1962, ExxonMobil has donated more than $665 million to American institutions of higher learning.

“We have a long history of supporting education excellence in the United States,” said Kevin Murphy, president of the ExxonMobil Foundation. “Our employees and retirees also share that priority. This donation is a demonstration of our collective support for higher education institutions across the country.”

In 2017, more than 4,200 employees and retirees made individual donations through the initiative. Although grants are unrestricted, colleges and universities are encouraged to designate a portion to math and science programs supporting student engagement.

In addition to the Educational Matching Gift Program, ExxonMobil and the ExxonMobil Foundation support and develop programs that encourage students, particularly women and minorities, toward careers in science, technology, engineering and math, as well as teacher training initiatives.

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About the ExxonMobil Foundation

The ExxonMobil Foundation is the primary philanthropic arm of Exxon Mobil Corporation in the United States. The foundation and the corporation engage in a range of philanthropic activities that advance education, with a focus on math and science in the United States, promote women as catalysts for economic development and combat malaria. In 2017, the ExxonMobil Foundation, together with Exxon Mobil Corporation, its divisions and affiliates along with employees and retirees, provided $204 million in contributions worldwide, of which $68 million was dedicated to education.

Facebook to Bring Community Boost to Denver

Facebook is bringing its Community Boost program to Denver this summer. The week-long program will focus on helping small businesses, entrepreneurs and job seekers grow their business and develop new digital skills they need to compete in Colorado’s new economy. 

Since 2011 Facebook has invested more than $1 billion to support small businesses, but we wanted to do more to support local communities across America. The company will be visiting 30 U.S. cities in 2018, you can learn more about Community Boost here: Community Boost

In addition, research conducted by Morning Consult and co-sponsored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Facebook suggests small businesses’ use of social media is creating new opportunities.

In Colorado the research found that:

• 56% of SMBs in Colorado surveyed agree that Facebook is an essential tool for their business
• 42% of SMBs surveyed in Colorado say that Facebook has helped them hire additional employees to work at their business
• 55% of SMBs surveyed in Colorado believe that Facebook allows me to find customers in other cities, states or countries

• 70% of SMBs surveyed in Colorado believe an individual’s digital and social media skills are important when hiring, more than those who think where an individual went to school is important

Denver small business community is an important part of the region's economy: 

• 60,490 SMBs in Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO MSA (as of 2013) [SBA MSA source] 572,546 SMBs in Colorado (As of 2016) [source]
• Unemployment rate of 2.8% with approximately 1,564,600 people employed (as of Nov 2017) [source], with approximately 2,939,100 people employed (as of Nov 2017) [source]
• The Colorado metropolitan area ranks 45th out of 100 MSAs for average level of digital skills, 72.9% of jobs demanded at least medium digital skills [source]

To share your thoughts and stay up to date with the latest city announcements, news and program schedules visit facebook.com/communityboost.

Manufacturer's Edge Launches a New Series of Workshops Aimed at Bringing Emerging Technologies to Colorado Manufacturers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jessica Cowden

Manufacturer’s Edge

970.270.7176

[email protected]

[email protected]

MANUFACTURER’S EDGE LAUNCHES A NEW SERIES OF WORKSHOPS AIMED AT BRINGING EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES TO COLORADO MANUFACTURERS

The Technology AdvantEDGE Series presents “Building a Business Case for Additive” with GE Additive on Thursday, March 29

(Denver, CO) Manufacturer’s Edge is pleased to introduce the 2018 Technology AdvantEDGE Series – a series of workshops introducing new and emerging technologies that manufacturers can implement into their processes and products. The first event in the Technology AdvantEDGE series will be held on Thursday, March 29 at 9am in Denver.

“Building a Business Case for Additive” is presented in cooperation with GE Additive and is aimed at organizations that are interested in exploring in metal additive manufacturing (AM) and need to quantify the economic opportunity.

The workshop will focus on the ROI that metal additive brings and will equip participants with the knowledge to sell the business case for AM to their leadership.

The session will be led by consultants from AddWorks™, GE Additive’s in-house design consulting group, who helped design the fuel nozzle and Advanced Turboprop (ATP). Both parts are FAA certified and were re-engineered using AM and gained significant weight savings, part count reduction, and better performance. The AddWorks™ team will help attendees understand how to develop an AM mindset from the outset.

“Additive manufacturing is fundamentally changing how manufacturing is done, but what often stops organizations from starting their additive journey is a fear of the unknown and understanding what the payback is going to be,” says Heidi Hostetter, Vice President of Faustson Tool.

This one-day workshop will cover the following topics:

·       Key factors in identifing the right part for AM with metals

·       Design, materials and manufacturing considerations during part design

·       Building a ROI-led business case with key cost assumptions

·       Identifying the right parts for AM

·       Optimizing your additive post-processing

·       Design recommendations and considerations

·       Building an additive part cost model

·       How to sell additive up through your organization

This is a hands-on workshop and attendees are encouraged to bring a part with them that might be a suitable for AM production. The Addworks team will then explore the compatibility and potential benefits of implementing an AM redesign.

What: Building a Business Case for Additive

Dates: March 29, 2018

Time: 9am–5pm; happy hour/networking event 5–7pm

Place: Geotech Environmental Equipment (2650 E 40th Ave, Denver)

Cost: Free; lunch is provided

Sponsored by: Manufacturer’s Edge, H2 Manufacturing Solutions, the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, and GE Additive

More information: www.manufacturersedge.com/events

Direct registration link: https://tech-advantedge-series-additive.eventbrite.com

About the Technology AdvantEDGE Series from Manufacturer's Edge:

As the Manufacturing Extension Partner for the state of Colorado, Manufacturer's Edge is committed to keeping Colorado manufacturers informed with the latest cutting-edge info and access to the latest trends. We want to show you what is on the horizon so that you can anticipate the arrival and stay competitive. To that end, we are pleased to introduce the 2018 Technology AdvantEDGE Series -- a series of workshops where we will introduce a variety of new technologies that manufacturers can implement into their manufacturing processes and products. These workshops will cover everything from new materials such as composites, smart fibers, and fabrics to new manufacturing processes, such as 3D printing and robotics. Topics of interest will also include radical new technologies that will change the way we live, such as flexible hybrid electronics, biopharmaceuticals, and biofabrication.

Let us help you stay ahead of the game by anticipating and preparing for the amazing innovations on the horizon. Let us bring the future to you!

About Manufacturer’s Edge:

Manufacturer’s Edge is a statewide manufacturing assistance center partially funded by the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP). Manufacturer’s Edge encourages the strength and competitiveness of Colorado manufacturers through onsite technical assistance through coaching, training, and consulting, collaboration-focused industry programs, and leveraging government, university, and economic development partnerships. Learn more at our website, on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.

About H2 Manufacturing Solutions

H2 Manufacturing Solutions offers a broad range of services to help manufacturers navigate the daily challenges of the modern manufacturing world. Our one-stop shop addresses any business challenge a manufacturer encounters, from representing best-in-class equipment and service providers to operational improvement consulting to business development strategies to technical expertise. At H2, our mission is to make manufacturers’ day-to-day challenges more manageable and less frustrating. Our promise is to deliver Honest. Hardworking. Results. For more information, contact H2 Manufacturing Solutions at 970-692-3344 or [email protected]. Visit H2 Manufacturing Solutions on the web, Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

About GE Additive

GE Additive is part of GE – the world’s Digital Industrial Company, transforming industry with software-defined machines and solution that are connected, responsive and predictive. GE Additive includes material provider AP&C and additive service provider to the medical industry, DTI. As a notable user of additive technologies GE recognizes the value and potential it brings to modern design and manufacturing. GE is organized around a global exchange of knowledge, the “GE Store,” through which each business shares and accesses the same technology, resources and intellect.

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Jim Davidson Keynotes NOCOM 2018

For Immediate Release

Contact:

Amanda Miller

Event Coordinator

970.231.0316

[email protected]

Heidi Hostetter

NOCOM 2018 Chair

303.517.6541

[email protected]

Jim Davidson Keynotes NOCOM 2018

Legendary mountaineer and Northern Colorado resident speaks on resilience and innovation in the manufacturing industry

Loveland, Colorado— Legendary mountaineer, expedition leader, inspirational professional speaker, and Fort Collins native Jim Davidson will keynote Northern Colorado Manufacturing Partnership’s NOCOM 2018 manufacturing trade show at 7:00 a.m. April 12, 2018 at The Ranch Event Center/Larimer County Fairgrounds. The breakfast, sponsored by BMA America, kicks off a day-long event showcasing Northern Colorado’s expanding manufacturing sector, connecting suppliers, manufacturers, capital, and services.

Davidson will speak about the theme of this year’s event: Creating Culture to Promote Innovation: “In my keynote, I share the epic tale of how I had to find a way to climb an overhanging ice wall alone to escape a deep glacial crevasse. I was short on resources, technique and time. Yet, I was able to overcome this challenge, just like manufacturers tackle challenges every day.”

Hear invigorating stories and lessons that help businesses employ innovation and resilience when facing challenges and opportunities. Short on resources, time, and technique? Resolve problematic challenges through adaptation and innovative thinking.

“As an advocate of both manufacturing and climbing, I’ve learned leadership is most vital in your darkest hours, not your finest moments, and Jim is a great example of this,” said Adam Papillion, director of operations for H2 Manufacturing Solutions. “Through many years of climbing and friendship with Jim, nothing has transferred more to my professional life than Jim’s lessons on resilience.”

Davidson will be on site after his talk at the show’s registration table signing copies of his New York Times best-selling book, The Ledge. As time permits, he will connect with individuals and organizations on the challenges they face in a competitive manufacturing world, and how they can solve them through resilience and innovation.

Jim has summitted the world’s tallest peaks, survived harrowing trials and extremely dangerous situations, and he shares the power of resilience to audiences around the world. Davison’s stories of survival help people face their own challenges and opportunities. With 36 years of adventures to draw from, he distills unique content for each audience to reveal how to adapt to profound change, overcome anxiety and uncertainty, and reach lofty goals.

Register for the 7:00 a.m. breakfast, full day of programming, and post-event B2B networking via the Northern Colorado Manufacturing Partnership website. Learn more about Davidson, view his videos and pictures, and read about his experiences on his website, speakingofadventure.com.

About the 4th Annual NOCOM Trade Show

Date:    Thursday, April 12th, 2018

Time:   7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

            Kick-off Breakfast at 7:00 a.m. at the Budweiser Events Center (separate ticket required)

            Sponsored by BMA America

            B2B Networking Reception 3:30 to 5:00 p.m.

            Sponsored by H2 Manufacturing Solutions and Manufacturer’s Edge

Major sponsors include Aerotek, Colorado Department of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), EKS&H, Flood & Peterson, Xcel Energy, and FirstBank. Other sponsors include Speaker Hall sponsor Northern Colorado Economic Alliance; Venue sponsor City of Loveland; and Coffee sponsor Noffsinger.

The event showcases Northern Colorado’s expanding manufacturing sector, connecting suppliers, manufacturers, capital, and services. Registration is now open at this link. Admission is $15 for pre-registered attendees (students are free) and $20 at the door, with post-event B2B networking event included, and $30 for the kickoff breakfast featuring keynote speaker Jim Davidson. Attendees can download the Yapp App from Yapp.us, Google play or Apple’s app store and enter the ID code NOCOM2018 for detailed information on the event.

The NOCOM 2018 kick-off breakfast is sponsored by BMA America, experts in plants for the production of fructose, sugar, and dextrose whether dealing with machinery, individual process steps, or entire factories. Visit BMA’s website for more information.

Admission to the post-show B2B networking reception, sponsored by H2 Manufacturing Solutions and Manufacturer’s Edge is included with registration for all attendees. H2 Manufacturing Solutions offers a broad range of services to help manufacturers navigate the daily challenges of the modern manufacturing world. Manufacturer’s Edge, Colorado’s statewide manufacturing assistance center through NISP’s MEP program, boosts the competitiveness of Colorado manufacturers through onsite technical assistance and support.

This year’s NOCOM Trade Show features more than 100 exhibitors, a speaker hall featuring several manufacturing industry leaders, manufacturing forums, and a B2B reception. Topics discussed will include: Get the best bang for the buck with healthcare; Navigate programs and grants targeted to grow Colorado manufacturing businesses; Learn insiders' secrets on the latest and greatest technology advances should be part of your strategy for this year . . . and beyond; and Navigate challenges that manufacturers face.

About BMA

The roots of BMA America in Greeley stem from 90 years old Brewer Steel, founded as a family business in Greeley, Colorado. Over the years, BMA's reputation as a reliable, quality fabricator grew, and the business expanded to include heavier products and fabrications. With the addition of specialized equipment and key personnel, BMA Americas custom fabrication today enjoys a reputation as one of the leading fabricators in the Rocky Mountain West, maintaining its reputation for quality and on-time delivery. In November 1994, Brewer Steel was purchased from the Brewer family by BMA Braunschweigische Maschinenbauanstalt AG enabling the company to grow further and develop new business fields. Next to custom fabrication for regional customers, today, BMA America can offer capital equipment and spare parts for the sugar industry, engineering, and other after sales services. Our long-standing customers include the cane and beet sugar industry in North-, Central- and South-America.

About Northern Colorado Manufacturing Partnership

The NoCo Manufacturing Partnership was formed in 2013 as a result of Governor Hickenlooper’s state Economic Development plan called the Colorado Blue Print. The Blue Print identified 11 key sectors of the economy in Colorado by region. Northern Colorado’s two main sectors identified were Health and Wellness and Advanced Manufacturing. Regions within the state were encouraged to form sector partnerships to provide more localized grass roots support to augment state efforts in each sector.

These would be industry specific, led by business, in partnership with economic development, education and workforce development. A collaboration arose as part of the Blue Print process involving people from each of these affiliations and the NoCo Manufacturing Partnership was born. It continues to be an all-volunteer, business led, FREE membership organization designed to support Northern Colorado manufacturers. It is served by a Board of Directors, representing each affiliation from private business to local government, as well as two active committees: Networking and Manufacturing Talent/Rocks! Find us on the web, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

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FedEx Launches Sixth Annual Small Business Grant Contest

$120,500 Total Cash and Prizes Available to 10 U.S. Based Small Businesses

MEMPHIS, Tenn., February 20, 2018—FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) today announced the launch of its sixth annual FedEx Small Business Grant Contest, which recognizes passionate and innovative small businesses from across the country who aspire to take their businesses to the next level. This year, the contest offers a total prize pool of $120,500 to ten U.S. based small businesses, including a credit for print and business services from FedEx Office. Specifically, the awards will include:

• Grand prize: One (1) winner of $25,000, plus $7,500 in FedEx Office® print and business services
• Silver prize: One (1) winner of $15,000, plus $5,000 in FedEx Office® print and business services
• Bronze prize: Eight (8) winners of $7,500, plus $1,000 in FedEx Office® print and business services

“More than 17,000 small businesses have shared their unique stories and dreams of success with us since we launched our first contest in 2012,” said Scott Harkins, senior vice president, Customer Channel Marketing at FedEx. “We’ve learned a lot about the unique challenges small businesses face and it’s exciting to see the many ways our past winners have used their FedEx grants to grow and expand, both here in the U.S and across the globe.”

The 2017 contest attracted candidates from all 50 states and brought in more than 1.4 million votes. Grand Prize winner Sword & Plough, a small business that works with American manufacturers who employ veterans to transform military surplus into fashionable and functional bags and accessories, was co-founded by sisters Emily Núñez Cavness and Betsy Núñez. With the $25,000 grant, the sisters were able to expand production, improve their supply chain and inventory management, and scale their impact of empowering veteran employment. And with the $7,500 credit for printing and business services, they were able to produce the marketing materials to support their brand ambassador program, which has a presence in 40 states and four countries.

“Winning the FedEx Small Business Grant Contest was an amazing experience,” said Emily Núñez Cavness, CEO of Sword & Plough. “Not only did it provide us with financial support, which helped us take our business to the next level, it also opened the door for a strong working relationship with FedEx. FedEx understands the challenges small businesses face and their expertise has been an important part of the Sword & Plough journey.”

The 2018 FedEx Small Business Grant Contest is open to U.S.-based for-profit small businesses that have less than 99 employees and have been operating for six months or more. To enter, participants must visit fedex.com/grantcontest and enter their contact information, write a short profile about their business and upload four photos of their business or product, including their logo. While not required, participants also have the option of submitting a 90-second “elevator speech” video to supplement their entry and are encouraged to share their participation with their social networks to boost votes.

The contest entry period is open from February 20 to March 28, 2018, with voting to take place from February 28 to April 4, 2018. Following a judging period, winners will be announced on April 24, 2018.

Details on how to enter the contest, as well as the official rules and FAQs can be found at fedex.com/grantcontest.

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Finding Solutions for Your Business – FedEx Small Business Center

The FedEx portfolio of services allows small businesses to gain access to the global marketplace and to shipping, logistics and printing solutions. For more information on how FedEx helps small businesses, please visit the FedEx Small Business Center at www.fedex.com/smallbusiness.

About FedEx Corp.

FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce and business services.  With annual revenues of $62 billion, the company offers integrated business applications through operating companies competing collectively and managed collaboratively, under the respected FedEx brand. Consistently ranked among the world’s most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 400,000 team members to remain “absolutely, positively” focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards and the needs of their customers and communities. To learn more about how FedEx connects people and possibilities around the world, please visit about.fedex.com.

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Government and Industry Partnership in Remote Sensing Data Analytics and Computing: Tap Lab

The United States Air Force (USAF), Lockheed Martin, and CU-Boulder are collectively working to design, procure, and install a collaborative R&D development environment to include: 1) remote sensing data analysis and archiving capabilities, 2) shared cloud computing resources (e.g. AWS) for remote access, and 3) computing infrastructure and services for lab development activities. The USAF, Lockheed Martin, and other key industry partners have invested heavily in the capture of relevant datasets via satellite-based remote sensors and in signal processing, data fusion, analytics, and visualization associated with interpreting data for effective decision making. The CU Boulder Grand Challenge Initiatives fuse strengths in earth, space and social sciences with new technologies and partners to address broad-ranging environmental and natural resource challenges of interest to Industry (topics related to the earth’s surface, atmospheric research, weather and climate studies, and environmental resource management). CU-Boulder provides remote sensing, earth sciences, and analytics expertise that is complementary to USAF and Industry partner capability. For more information on this collaboration and a full list of partners, visit the Tap Lab website.

Collaboration in Industry Awards Luncheon

On behalf on Colorado Business Roundtable, we want to say thank you to everyone who sponsored, attended, and supported the first annual Collaboration In Industry Awards Luncheon. This event was a major success and we appreciate everyone who came. 

We want to say thank you to our sponsors Lockheed Martin, CAP Logistics, ICOSA Media, AT&T, Colorado Workforce Development Council, ConocoPhillips, Parker Area Chamber of Commerce, Colorado State University-Global, and IBM. 

We also want to say thank you to our table sponsors OEDIT, Colorado Succeeds, FirstBank, Junior Achievement, Molson Coors, Newmark Knight Frank, Parker Area Chamber of Commerce, Space Foundation, University of Colorado-Boulder, Vectra Bank, Vital for Colorado, and Wells Fargo. 

Then of course we want to say thank you to our speakers Jacqueline Hinman, CEO of CH2M, Governor John Hickenlooper, and Jim Clifton, Chairman and CEO of Gallup who gave amazing speeches. 

Congratulations to all the winners of the Collaboration In Industry Awards. 

Aerospace Winner - USAF Space and Missile Systems Center

Education & Workforce Winner - Colorado State University-Global

Energy Winner - Clean Energy Collective

Engineering & Construction Winner - Crossroads Commerce Park

Farming & Agriculture Winner - Colorado FFA Foundation

Financial Services Winner - FirstBank

Government & Economic Development Winner - Denver Regional Council of Governments

Health & Wellness Winner - Colorado Public Health/Parks & Recreation Collaborative

Hospitality & Lodging Winner - Sage Hospitality

Manufacturing Winner - OIA Sustainability Working Group

Technology Winner - Colorado Technology Foundation

Tourism & Outdoor Recreation - The Historic Hot Springs Loop

Thank you to our sponsors! 

Redistricting Initiative Proponents: Stop the Games, Let's Reform Redistricting

News Release

October 19, 2017

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aaron Cohen ([email protected])

Redistricting Initiative Proponents: Stop the Games, Let’s Reform Redistricting

Fair Districts Colorado Proposes Additional Reform Measures

(DENVER, CO) – Following a statewide discussion generated by the submission of redistricting ballot initiatives in early September, Fair Districts Colorado today filed three new proposals with the Office of Legislative Council.  After more than a month in the public eye, the committee behind the initiatives says it’s listening.

“Like we’ve always said, we’re open to constructive comments that give the redistricting processes back to the voters.  We’re grateful for the input from dozens of individuals and groups across the state in recent weeks,” said former State Representative Kathleen Curry. “We will reform redistricting so that the power is with the people and not corrupt political power brokers. All we ask is that people check their partisan credentials at the door to find the fairest process for Colorado communities.”

Every ten years, congressional and state legislative district boundaries are redrawn to adjust for population and demographic shifts. Colorado has a checkered history of redistricting abuses, with claims of gerrymandering launched by both parties.

Joining Curry as a designated representative of the proponents for the three new initiatives is former Deputy Secretary of State Bill Hobbs.  “The redistricting process in Colorado is broken,” said Hobbs, who, like Curry is an unaffiliated voter.  “The partisans who currently draw maps have a huge conflict of interest.  Instead of drawing competitive districts and trying to keep communities whole, they are primarily motivated by a single goal: maximizing the number of districts their party wins.  Partisan political power should not be the underlying motive of map-drawers.  These measures will help end gerrymandering by placing the process for drawing maps into a balanced, independent commission that utilizes nonpartisan staff to draw maps using neutral, fair criteria, operating transparently.” 

Fair Districts Colorado filed its original language in September, followed by a unanimous Title Board ruling that approved title language. Yesterday, the Title Board unanimously reaffirmed its previous approval at a re-hearing.

The new initiatives make the following adjustments:

·       Require the approval of eight of 12 commissioners to approve any final map, including the affirmative vote of no fewer than two independent commissioners.  The previous measures required the affirmative vote of only one independent to approve any final map.

·       Require all appointees to the commission to go through an application process, not just the independent appointees.

·       Stipulate that appointees from the two largest political parties are made by the Senate Majority Leader, the Senate Minority Leader, the House Majority Leader and the House Minority Leader.  Prior measures stipulated that the two political parties would appoint the partisans.

·       Adjusts the appointment process for the independent commissioner by utilizing a random drawing of four from among 20 recommendations made by a panel of senior or retired judges.

·       Clarify that the public has the opportunity to comment on maps or propose ideas for maps at any time.

Unfortunately, due to her travel schedule, Toni Larson is unable to serve as a proponent for these new measures.  Proponents are required to appear before Legislative Council and the Title Board on a prescribed schedule that she cannot meet.

Ms. Larson, First Vice President of the League of Women Voters and, with Curry, a designated representative of the proponents for the initial two measures filed in September, made the following statement in support of these additional reform initiatives:

“Representatives from the League of Women Voters of Colorado have been involved in this effort from day one, starting in January.  The new measure adopts a number of positive recommendations.  Working with other members of this effort, the League has helped reach out to all lawmakers and several community, business and minority groups, soliciting input from all corners.” 

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Colorado Energy and Manufacturing Forum

Consumer Energy Alliance and the Colorado Business Roundtable teamed up to host the Colorado Energy and Manufacturing Forum to discuss current energy issues and the importance of responsible energy development in the context of jobs, the economy, and U.S. competitiveness. 

We had Senator Michael Bennet and Senator Cory Gardner discuss their views on the energy and manufacturing industry. Along with hearing from Tom Bugnitz from Manufacturer Edge, Tim Heaton from CAMA, and Jeff Popiel from GeoTech Environment Equipment & Leptron Unmanned Aircraft Systems about manufacturing. Then we heard from R. Scott Winner from Vestas, Taylor Henderson from Colorado Solar Energy Industry Association, Nadia El Mallakh from Xcel Energy, and Sam Knaizer from BP about the energy industry. 

Please see these news articles from the event. 

Colorado Senators Express Bipartisan Pushback Against Anti-Fossil Fuel Agenda

http://westernwire.net/colorado-senators-express-bipartisan-pushback-against-anti-fossil-fuel-agenda/

It would be a 'travesty':" Colorado senators agree (and disagree) on energy policy

http://www.9news.com/money/business/it-would-be-a-travesty-colorado-senators-agree-and-disagree-on-energy-policy/482484389

Colorado Senators React to Controversial Solar Tariff

http://denver.cbslocal.com/2017/10/10/senators-react-solar-tariff/

Colorado SBDC TechSource unveils a small business Cybersecurity Program

DENVER - Wed., Oct. 11, 2017 -

The Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will launch a statewide Cyber Security program in October 2017. This program will ensure that small businesses throughout the state have access to relevant and up-to-date education and free one-on-one consulting on how to best protect their assets and investments. Forty-three percent of small businesses owners fall victim to a cyber attack. The SBDC aims to help small businesses protect themselves from these unforeseen threats which can potentially cripple their business and livelihood. Consulting and classes will range from cloud computing to securing technology in order to meet government procurement and compliance standards.

The Pikes Peak SBDC will manage and operate the program on a statewide basis. The Pikes Peak SBDC one of four SBDC Technology TechSource Smart Zones operating out of Colorado Springs, Colorado. The SBDC recently received a $50,000 supplemental grant, in addition to sponsors and other funding sources) in order to more effectively implement this new initiative. Aikta Marcoulier, Executive Director of the Pikes Peak SBDC, encourages all Colorado small business to utilize the new resources, "Cybersecurity for your business is as essential as drinking water for your health. The SBDC Cyber Program for Small Business has been created to ensure your business health is in top notch condition. Don't put off your cyber training, it's easy, it's fun and it's affordable."

The Cyber Security threat for small business owners is fast becoming a national concern. The National Association of Small Business Development Centers recently pushed through legislation which will further assist small business owners in defending against cyber threats. Three amendments to the small business act have been passed through the House and are on the way to Senate for approval: H.R. 3002, H.R. 5064 and S. 1428.  These amendments task SBDCs across the nation with prioritizing cybersecurity training and consulting in addition to ensuring that the SBDC has access to, and utilizes the top talent and expertise in the field.

The Cybersecurity Smart Zone will be deploying the following educational events:

• Virtual Training
• Innovative Business Roadtrips
• Onsite workshops, industry roundtable
• One-on-one consulting

Cybersecurity Small Business Experts Include:

• Colorado Computer Support
• Conundrum Creek Consulting
• Corvus Technologies, LLC
• Department of Homeland Security
• Firma IT Solutions & Services
• Murray Security Services & Consulting
• Rim Technologies, LLC
• The Cybersecurity Institute for Small and Mid-Sized Business (CiSMB)
• Toggle Industries, LLC
• And many more!

The upcoming cybersecurity educational events and resources can be viewed at www.pikespeaksbdc.org/cyber.

About the Colorado SBDC Network

The Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network is dedicated to helping existing and new businesses grow and prosper in Colorado by providing free and confidential consulting and no-or low-cost training programs. The SBDC strives to be the premier, trusted choice of Colorado businesses for consulting, training and resources. The SBDC Network combines the resources of federal, state and local organizations with those of the educational system and private sector to meet the specialized and complex needs of the small business community.
About the Colorado SBDC TechSource Program

The Colorado SBDC TechSource program is a two-tiered program focusing on:  (1) assisting technology venture companies with commercialization, access to funding, and business development (2) assisting any and all companies in the utilization of technology to enhance business outcomes including cyber security, CRM systems training, and website development and training

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"Colorado Experience Road Show" Returns Thursday with Screening of "Uranium Mania" in Grand Junction kicking off 9-stop statewide tour

DENVER - Oct. 12, 2017 - The popular "Colorado Experience Road Show" presented by The Colorado Office of Film, Television and Media (COFTM) and Rocky Mountain PBS returns for the 2017 season with the premiere screening of "Uranium Mania" at the Grand Junction Museum of the West Thursday, October 12, at 6:00 p.m., kicking off a 9-stop statewide tour celebrating Colorado history and original television content.

The Emmy award-winning series, "Colorado Experience," produced by Rocky Mountain PBS explores the people, places and events that have shaped Colorado. Each ½ hour episode presents Colorado history in an entertaining, quick-paced and educational format featuring interviews with experts and historical photos from various libraries and museums across the State.

"There are so many amazing stories (in Colorado)," said Julie Speer, creator of the series and director of culture content for Rocky Mountain PBS. "We are so fortunate to have the opportunity to bring them to television so everyone can learn the rich history of Colorado."  

"Colorado Experience" is currently the highest rated, locally produced show on Rocky Mountain PBS. Season Five of "Colorado Experience" premieres Oct. 19 at 7:30 p.m. on Rocky Mountain PBS. COFTM provided incentives for seasons one and two of the show.

"Rocky Mountain PBS does a tremendous job capturing the history of a community while creating television that is entertaining and educational," said Donald Zuckerman, Colo. film commissioner.

The Road Show will include screenings of new "Colorado Experience" episodes exploring Colorado's deep history of uranium mining; Paleo-Indian archaeological discoveries; frontier doctor, Doc Susie Anderson; and the state's early involvement in the world of mountain biking. 

Each screening will include a community conversation with producers of the show and local historians. All screenings are free and open to the public. For more information, please visit www.rmpbs.org/coloradoexperience.

Tour Schedule:

Oct. 12, 2017 - Grand Junction

6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.

Museum Of The West

462 Ute Ave., Grand Junction

Screening Episode: Uranium Mania

Q & A Session

Oct. 16, 2017 - Nucla

6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.

First Park Community Center

1045 Main St., Nucla

Screening Episode: Uranium Mania

Q & A Session

Oct. 17, 2017 - Durango

6:30 p.m., Doors Open 6:00 p.m.

The Powerhouse Science Center

1333 Camino Del Rio, Durango

Screening Episode: Uranium Mania

Q & A Session

Oct. 25, 2017 - Winter Park

6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.

Adolfs Event Center & Tavern

1008 Winter Park Dr., Winter Park

Screening Episode: Dr. Susie Anderson

Q & A Session

Dec. 6, 2017 - Burlington

6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.

Midway Theater and Cultural Events Center

446 14th St., Burlington

Screening Episode: Amusements

Q & A Session

Jan. 15, 2018 - Crested Butte

6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.

Center For the Arts

606 6th St., Crested Butte

Screening Episode: Mountain Biking

Q & A Session

Jan. 16, 2018 - Gunnison

6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.

Western State Colorado University

600 Adams St., Gunnison

Screening Episodes: Mountain Biking | Paleo Indians

Q & A Session

Jan. 17, 2017 - Salida

6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.

Salida Steam Plant Theater

220 W Sackett Ave., Salida

Screening Episodes: Ghost Towns | Mountain Biking

Q & A Session

Jan. 24, 2018 - Alamosa

6:00 p.m., Doors Open at 5:30 p.m.

Adam State University

208 Edgemont Blvd., Alamosa

Screening Episode: Settling the Sand Dunes

Q & A Session

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Leeds Business Confidence Index Reports Overall Positive Expectations, But Cooling Optimism Ahead Of Q4

Leeds Business Confidence Index Reports Overall Positive Expectations, But Cooling Optimism Ahead Of Q4

Oct. 2, 2017 -  The Leeds Business Confidence Index (LBCI) fell ahead of the fourth quarter of 2017, reflecting lower expectations for both the end of the year and the first quarter of 2018 despite all individual components of the index remaining in positive territory. The overall index came in at 56.5 for Q4 2017 and 55.3 for Q1 2018 (Note: an index value of 50 equals neutral).

The report, which is prepared by CU Boulder’s Business Research Division at the Leeds School of Business, captures Colorado business leaders’ expectations for the national economy, state economy, industry sales, profits, hiring plans and capital expenditures. A total of 284 qualified panelists responded to the survey.

For the second consecutive quarter, the LBCI’s overall outlook remained positive even as expectations cooled for individual indicators. The index fell 3.2 points from last quarter, but still remained higher than last year’s figure, gaining 3.5 points from Q4 2016. Panelists’ expectations were weakest for the national economy, but were buoyed by stronger expectations for the state, industry sales and industry profits.

“We are seeing a larger decline in optimism about the national economy than we are about the state economy,” said Richard Wobbekind, Executive Director of the Business Research Division.  “The state economy is still considered healthy and a larger percentage of respondents believes it is expanding rather than contracting.”

The LBCI reflected modest declines in expectations across a number of economic indicators. Sales and profit expectations ranked among the highest of the six survey components, but both still slipped ahead of Q4 2017. Capital expenditures and hiring also fell as growth expectations slowed.

Colorado’s job market remained a bright spot as the state continued to exhibit strong employment growth. Jobs increased 1.8 percent year-over-year in August 2017, the 14th-fastest rate in the country. Meanwhile, the state unemployment rate continues to outperform the nation as a whole, coming in at just 2.5 percent.

Colorado’s low unemployment rate, however, could make it difficult for employers to fill vacant or new positions, leading more than one-quarter of survey respondents to name it their top economic concern. Housing was the second most frequently mentioned issue, specifically high real estate prices and a lack of affordable housing that could discourage potential employees from relocating to Colorado.

For more information and to read the full report, visit the Business Research Division.

Supporting Today's Workers and Preparing the Workforce of Tomorrow

The Consulate General of Canada in Denver, the Office of the Governor of Colorado, and the Colorado Business Roundtable hosted an event addressing urgent issues in Colorado and Canada: supporting displaced workers and preparing the workforce of the future in a transforming economy. 

Speakers addressed trends that are accelerating change in the Coloradan and Canadian economics, successful approaches to support workers who lost their jobs while they re-train for other opportunities, and best practices in preparing K-12 and higher education in Colorado and Canada for the jobs of tomorrow. 

Speakers and panelists, in order of appearance:

Jeff Wasden, CEO of COBRT

Erik Mitisek, Chief Innovation Officer of Colorado and CEO, IMAgine Analytics.

Jared Nichols, futures strategist and author of Waypoint: Mapping the Future of Talent in the Age of Automation.

Stephanie Veck, Director, Colorado Workforce Development Council

Michael Strople, President, Enterprise Networks, Zayo Group Holdings

Randy Hoback, Member of Parliament, Prince Albert Riding

Sarah Heath, PhD, State Director-Assistant Provost - Colorado Career and Technical Education

Kim Hunter Reed, Executive Director, Colorado Department of Higher Education

Shaun Thorson, CEO, Skills Canada

Donald Austin, Vice-President, Commerce City Refinery, Suncor

John W. Hickenlooper, Governor of Colorado

Kirsten Hillman, Deputy Ambassador of Canada to the United States

Denver Opportunity Youth Initiative

Our youth are tomorrow’s talent:

Today there are close to 9,000 youth in the Denver metro area who are talented and motivated, but lack the opportunity and support to reconnect to school and work. Generally 16 to 24 years old, they’re called opportunity youth. We call them tomorrow’s business leaders and innovators.

We get more done together:

We’ve all faced challenges in our career – and always had someone to lend a hand. At the Denver Opportunity Youth Initiative we help young adults overcome those challenges. And we connect employers with these talented youth.

We’re looking for businesses committed to developing our workforce and matching the right talent to the right job. You’re committed to helping get these youth on a path to careers through work experiences, mentorship or training.

Your participation is an investment into the long-term success of Colorado’s economy. Let’s keep Colorado competitive and find a solution to our growing workforce gap.

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By 2020, 74 percent of our jobs in Colorado will require some post-secondary credentials

Roughly 54 percent of Coloradans have post-secondary credentials

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Want to develop tomorrow's talent?

We offer you a personal, tailored experience:

You’ll work one-on-one with Talent Pipeline Director Lorena Zimmer to:

• Identify available positions in your company and the necessary skills needed
• Identify core competencies that youth need prior to an internship or job with you
• Identify jobs that can be filled immediately vs. jobs that you can tailor for opportunity youth (jobs can be full-time, job shadows, internships or other work experience)
• Identify the youth who are ready for your work opportunities

Learn more here at http://denveroy.org/

Opportunity Youth Report

Opportunity Youth Policy Report

Talent Toolkit Event 

Colorado Business Roundtable Urges Senator Bennet to Support Federal Regulatory Reform Legislation

[DENVER, CO] — A coalition of chambers of commerce, trade associations, and businesses, representing the interests of businesses and individuals across the state of Colorado sent a letter to Senator Bennet today urging him to support important regulatory reform legislation pending in the U.S. Senate.

S. 951, the Regulatory Accountability Act of 2017 (RAA), which was introduced with bipartisan support from Sens. Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Heidi Heitkamp (D- N.D.), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), and Joe Manchin (D-W.V.), would modernize the Administrative Procedure Act, the nation’s regulatory playbook, which has been virtually unchanged since it was enacted in 1946. 

The coalition urged Senator Bennet to support the RAA, which would increase transparency, integrity, and accountability in the rulemaking process at federal agencies. The bill would also allow Colorado businesses the opportunity to participate in the rulemaking process earlier on for the most costly rules in order to help grow state and local economies. You can view the full letter here.

Earlier this year more than 600 business groups — including trade associations and state and local chambers of commerce — sent a letter to U.S. Senate leadership urging them to take up RAA. The Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs later passed the legislation, and now it awaits consideration by the full U.S. Senate. The House of Representatives passed the RAA with a bipartisan vote of 238-183 on January 11, 2017. 

COBRT Endorses Tax Reform. Join the Colorado Tax Reform Coalition.

President Trump visited Springfield, Missouri and laid out his plans for reforming our nation’s outdated, complex, and uncompetitive tax system. The President’s plan is built around an America First tax system that is focused on jobs, increasing wages and wealth in America, and restoring the American dream.

The Business Roundtable conducted a survey of their CEOs, and ninety percent responded that delaying tax reform will harm the U.S. economy by causing slower economic growth, hiring, and capital investment. Fifty-seven percent of the responding CEOs say delaying tax reform means their company will delay capital spending, the investment that drives jobs, and growth. Fifty-six percent say their companies will delay hiring plans.

President Trump believes lower taxes and higher wages will result in a better life for all Americans and make the American dream more accessible than ever before. The Colorado Business Roundtable enthusiastically endorses a tax reform plan that accomplishes four goals- simplification of our tax code that is fair to all Americans, reforms that lead to job creation and higher wages, provides tax relief for working, middle class, and paves the way for repatriation of funds parked off-shore back to the United States.

Our current tax code has increased in length and complexity so that ninety-four percent of U.S. taxpayers needed some form of help to file their returns, according to National Taxpayers Union, and ninety-one percent of small businesses hired a professional to do their taxes, according to the National Federation of Independent Business. Taxpayers spend over six billion hours annually complying with the tax code, according to the IRS’s Taxpayer Advocate Service. Complying with current tax code, one that is six time longer today as it was in 1955, places a $262 billion burden on the economy.

Colorado’s economy depends on 892 U.S. companies that actively operate internationally, competing in in global markets on a daily basis for inputs, capital, and customers. These globally engaged companies directly and indirectly contributed $148.8 billion to the Colorado economy in 2013 from a Business Roundtable report. Focusing on tax reforms that benefit Colorado workers, is simple and fair, and sets a competitive rate that drive job creation and higher wages is something every Coloradan should champion.

“If we don’t have tax reform sometime this or early next year, a lot of the business investment that’s been predicated on getting tax reform done will have been poorly made,” said J.D. Foster, senior vice president and chief economist at the U.S. Chamber. “Business investment will likely contract significantly, and we will have a significant period of economic weakness in my opinion.”

Our economy is healthy when we grow at roughly 3.5%. Since 2007, it has been below 2.5% consistently. Significant and generational tax reform is at the core of President Trump’s plan to return to over 3% growth. 3% growth rate will yield a nominal gross domestic product that is $16 trillion larger, generate $2.9 trillion in federal government revenue, and raise wages and salaries of American workers by $7 trillion, according to administration estimates.

Fixing our broken tax code for families, small businesses, workers, and job creators is the single most important action we can take to grow our economy and help the middle class get ahead. If we are successful in this once-in-a-generation opportunity to make taxes simpler, fairer, and lower for hard-working Colorado families, we can encourage entrepreneurs to reinvest in their businesses and American companies to bring back jobs and profits trapped overseas.

“CEOs overwhelmingly believe that tax reform is the most effective way to put more Americans to work in a stronger, growing economy. The Trump Administration’s recent release of its tax proposals was a significant step forward as they work with Congress on pro-growth reform legislation. By demonstrating the importance of tax reform to business and the U.S. economy, these survey results confirm that tax reform is a critical priority if we are to grow the economy and create jobs and opportunity,” said Business Roundtable President and CEO Joshua Bolten.

Colorado Business Roundtable strongly encourages our congressional delegation, leadership, and the administration to pass meaningful and permanent tax reform. If you are interested in joining business leaders, chambers, and associations in advocating for a fairer, simpler, and more competitive rate, please contact us at [email protected] or visit www.cobrt.com/taxreform.

Jeff Wasden, President

Colorado Business Roundtable

Lockheed Martin Invests $350 Million in State-of-the-Art Satellite Production Facility

Preliminary construction is underway on a new, $350 million Lockheed Martin facility that will produce next-generation satellites. The new facility, located on the company's Waterton Canyon campus near Denver, is the latest step in an ongoing transformation, infused with innovation to provide future missions at reduced cost and cycle time.

The new Gateway Center, slated for completion in 2020, includes a state-of-the-art high bay clean room capable of simultaneously building a spectrum of satellites from micro to macro. The facility's paperless, digitally-enabled production environment incorporates rapidly-reconfigurable production lines and advanced test capability. It includes an expansive thermal vacuum chamber to simulate the harsh environment of space, an anechoic chamber for highly perceptive testing of sensors and communications systems, and an advanced test operations and analysis center. The Gateway Center will be certified to security standards required to support vital national security missions.

"This is our factory of the future: agile, efficient and packed with innovations. We'll be able to build satellites that communicate with front-line troops, explore other planets, and support unique missions," said Rick Ambrose, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Space Systems. "You could fit the Space Shuttle in the high bay with room to spare. That kind of size and versatility means we'll be able to maximize economies of scale, and with all of our test chambers under one roof, we can streamline and speed production."

Lockheed Martin expects the construction effort to employ a total of 1,500 contractors during the three-year construction phase. Lockheed Martin has added more than 750 jobs to its Colorado workforce since 2014, and currently has about 350 job openings in the Denver area alone. This building will accommodate that recent growth and new future projects. State and local officials in Colorado have helped strengthen the aerospace industry and foster an environment that helps aerospace companies thrive and grow.

"Aerospace is an engine of innovation and growth for America, and we're investing in infrastructure and technology to help strengthen the nation's leadership in military and commercial space and scientific exploration," added Ambrose. "We're transforming every aspect of our operations to help our customers stay ahead of a rapidly-changing landscape. The Gateway Center, coupled with advancements in 3D printing, virtual reality design and smart payloads, will deliver game-changing innovations while saving our customers time and money."

Lockheed Martin's Waterton Canyon campus has been a hub of space innovation since the 1950s, with more than 4,000 employees and a wide range of industry-leading design, manufacturing and test facilities on site. Spacecraft currently in production at the site include the Air Force's GPS III satellites, NASA's InSight Mars lander, NOAA's GOES-R Series weather satellites, and commercial communications satellites.

Companies selected by Lockheed Martin for the project include Hensel Phelps as the general contractor, Matrix PDM Engineering and Dynavac for thermal vacuum chamber design and construction, and ETS-Lindgren for anechoic chamber design and construction.

Read more in the Denver Business Journal

Learn more about the Gateway Center on Lockheed Martin's site

Colorado Immigration Reform Coalition Responds to the RAISE Act and Calls for Modernized System That Harnesses the Power of Immigrants

James Scimecca, [email protected]
Jesse Dougherty, [email protected]
 

Colorado Immigration Reform Coalition Responds to the RAISE Act and Calls for Modernized System That Harnesses the Power of Immigrants

Coalition members cite immigrant contributions and call for a different approach that empowers foreign-born workers instead of limiting them

Denver, Colorado — Today, the Colorado Immigration Reform Coalition responded to the RAISE Act, new legislation sponsored by Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and David Perdue (R-Ga.), and called for a revised solution that harnesses the economic power of foreign-born workers in the U.S. economy. The proposed bill was endorsed this week by President Trump, and called for a substantial limit to legal immigration.

While the coalition agrees on the need to modernize our broken immigration system with merit-based solutions, the bill contains a broad misconception that immigrants are hindering the wages of American workers. In fact, research has shown time and time again that foreign-born workers often act as key drivers of innovation and job creation, and do their part in filling the workforce gaps that the American economy faces with its ongoing aging crisis. Instead, the coalition is urging Congress to take an approach that harnesses the power of immigrants to create a streamlined process that attracts the best talent, builds the workforce needed to support America’s industries, and ultimately lays the groundwork for greater economic growth. 

“Broadly closing our doors to immigrants does not help any of the challenges we face in today’s world economy.  Since its founding, the United States has been a land of opportunity and inclusive of immigrants, their families and entrepreneurs creating the greatest economy that it is today.” said Clarence Low, president and CEO of the Asian Chamber of Commerce of Colorado. “We need to work together to improve our immigration system but do so in a way that doesn’t limit a large section of our economic contributors.  They have been integral to our country’s success and will be so once again in our future.” 

Jeff Wasden, President of the Colorado Business Roundtable and Coalition Member added: “Creating an economy that strengthens the wages of American workers should always be a central priority of Congress. But it would be a mistake to associate declining wage growth with immigrant contributions. Foreign-born workers are influencing the economy in the opposite direction – they are bringing in innovation that creates new businesses and opportunities that directly benefit American citizens. Their successes and entrepreneurial spirit should undoubtedly be part of the system’s solution. We need to work together to update our outdated immigration system.” 

The state coalition is sponsored by New American Economy (NAE), a bipartisan organization that supports immigration reforms that help both American workers and immigrants build a better economy. The coalition utilizes local leadership roles and NAE’s detailed research on immigrants to create a constructive platform to discuss immigration reform with Congress.

Jeff Wasden, President of the Colorado Business Roundtable and Coalition Member added: “Creating an economy that strengthens the wages of American workers should always be a central priority of Congress. But it would be a mistake to associate declining wage growth with immigrant contributions. Foreign-born workers are influencing the economy in the opposite direction – they are bringing in innovation that creates new businesses and opportunities that directly benefit Americancitizens. Their successes and entrepreneurial spirit should undoubtedly be part of the system’s solution. We need to work together to update our outdated immigration system.” 

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About New American Economy

New American Economy (NAE) brings together more than 500 Republican, Democratic and Independent mayors and business leaders who support immigration reforms that will help create jobs for Americans today. Coalition members include mayors of more than 35 million people nationwide and business leaders of companies that generate more than $1.5 trillion and employ more than 4 million people across all sectors of the economy, from Agriculture to Aerospace, Hospitality to High Tech and Media to Manufacturing. Learn more at www.NewAmericanEconomy.org.

Innovation + H2O = Colorado's Future

Go ahead, share this with a fellow trailblazer. June 22, 2017 innovation + H2O = colorado's future _______________________________________________________ To address Colorado’s most challenging water issues, three inspiring Colorado organizations are connecting community leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals in new, innovative ways. From reverse pitch events to Google-inspired entrepreneur “sprints,” TAP-IN, 10.10.10 and Innovation Incubator (IN²) are developing breakthrough solutions and starting new ventures utilizing Colorado’s innovation ecosystem. Although Colorado has always been at the forefront of water innovation, having been named one of the first water innovation clusters by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these organizations are focusing on identifying core water challenges before investing in technology options. With mounting pressures from climate change, pollution, population growth, and aging water infrastructure, Colorado’s water challenges are now bigger, more complex and too daunting for government to address alone. By engaging serial entrepreneurs and focusing on the problems, these organizations hope to build a thriving water innovation ecosystem in Colorado. it's time to "tap in" The mission of TAP-IN is to create a platform for Coloradans to “tap in” to the creative current that flows throughout our state to solve our greatest water challenges. TAP-IN starts with real-world problems and calls upon our diverse innovation community to collaborate and partner to solve them. TAP-IN aims to support a high-impact water and innovation ecosystem in Colorado that results in action and solutions. Entrepreneurs are accustomed to pitching ideas to potential investors, businesses, and customers. With TAP-IN, the tables are turned! End users from the water community pitch their specific challenges to entrepreneurs, equipping them with valuable insight into real needs while revealing potential new markets. TAP-IN is a reverse pitch innovation challenge that aims to identify the precise problems the water community faces and to engage the entrepreneurial community to come up with innovative solutions. The goal is to build connections across communities to unleash the power of Colorado collaboration. The next TAP-IN innovation challenge, Cultivate & Produce, will call upon end users working in agriculture, food, brew, and beverage to pitch their specific problems to the entrepreneurial, innovation, and business communities. Then, end users and attendees will discuss the problems, gather information that can power solutions, and build connections to innovate together. addressing the wicked problems In October, 10.10.10 will bring together prospective CEOs, successful serial entrepreneurs, subject matter experts, and city officials to address 10 “wicked” problems in water & infrastructure over 10 days (a “sprint”) with the goal of creating breakthrough innovation and market-based solutions that can change the world. “Wicked” problems were first outlined by two Berkeley professors in 1973. They stem from numerous causes, spread in every direction and tend to become entangled with other wicked problems. Conventional approaches to addressing them usually don’t work. They can be a societal scourge, such as poverty, or a seemingly more specific problem, like Alzheimer’s disease. Because wicked problems present tremendous business opportunities, 10.10.10 realized they could engage entrepreneurs, investors, and the market itself to confront them. But this can only be done with the right combination of entrepreneurial energy and insight. 10.10.10 harnesses this power and points it in the right direction. 10.10.10 is currently recruiting participants for the October event. incubating scalable solutions IN² is a technology incubator that fosters and accelerates early state technology companies that provide scalable solutions to reduce the energy impact of commercial buildings. IN² is creating an ecosystem for early-stage technology stakeholders and innovators — including national labs, universities, and regional accelerator programs — to develop strong relationships that provide mentorship, funding, and technical assistance to the most promising commercial building entrepreneurs. IN² is a five-year, $10 million program designed to facilitate early-stage technologies, funded by the Wells Fargo Foundation and co-administered by NREL. Over the course of six to 18 months, participating companies have access to NREL’s world-class facilities and researchers who will test, validate, and incubate the companies’ technologies to help them meet critical validation milestones on their path to the commercial marketplace. The technology company APANA was recently chosen for the IN² program. The APANA System offers an innovative smart water management system to reduce water waste. Their cloud-based analytic technology scans, pinpoints, and guides resolution of water waste by instantly alerting frontline staff and providing actionable guidance. APANA uses sensors and IoT devices to capture high-resolution data for constant analysis of when water waste is occurring. The IN² program is providing research assistance, test sites, and marketing exposure to further expand APANA’s growth. water innovation around the world As Colorado addresses some of our most challenging water issues, innovators around the world are working with governments to address water pollution, port management and sustainability, desalination, and energy generation. Watch how Israel’s Water Sensitivity Center is using innovation to capture and clean polluted groundwater before returning it to the aquifer, and how England uses floating solar panels to generate electricity for its water treatment plants. View this email in your browser You are receiving this email because of your relationship with Colorado Innovation Network. Please reconfirm your interest in receiving emails from us. If you do not wish to receive any more emails, you can unsubscribe here. 1625 Broadway St., Ste. 2700, Denver, CO, 80218 Unsubscribe