*Feature Image Credit: Startup Colorado
Rural communities across the U.S. often face similar challenges: population decline, limited job opportunities, and a lack of resources for innovation. But Fremont County, Colorado, is proving that these obstacles don’t have to define the future.
Through a combination of collaboration, creativity, and community spirit, Fremont County is transforming its economy by embracing entrepreneurship in rural areas—and their story is one worth sharing.
Startup Colorado’s recent case study highlights the incredible progress taking place in Fremont County and at Emergent Campus. This blog summarizes their key findings and the broader impact of these developments. For deeper insights, you can access the full case study at the end of this post.
The Challenge
Like many rural areas, Fremont County struggled with economic stagnation. Young people were leaving, local businesses were closing, and the region lacked the infrastructure to support new ventures. The county needed a fresh approach to revitalize its economy and create opportunities for its residents.
The Solution: Building an Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
Fremont County’s turnaround began with a simple yet powerful idea: entrepreneurship in rural areas could be the engine of rural economic development.
Here’s how they made it happen:
- Community Collaboration: Local leaders, entrepreneurs, and organizations joined forces to create a supportive network for startups. This included mentorship programs, access to funding, and shared resources like co-working spaces.
- Leveraging Local Strengths: Instead of trying to replicate urban models, Fremont County focused on its unique assets—stunning natural landscapes, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a strong sense of community. These became selling points to attract entrepreneurs and investors.
- Engaging the Community: Residents were actively involved in shaping the county’s economic future. This ensured that development efforts reflected the community’s values and needs, fostering a sense of ownership and pride.
- Statewide Partnerships: By partnering with organizations like Startup Colorado, Fremont County gained access to expertise, funding, and broader networks, amplifying the impact of local initiatives.
The Results
The efforts are paying off. New businesses are launching, jobs are being created, and the county is experiencing a renewed sense of optimism. Fremont County is becoming a model for how rural communities can harness the power of entrepreneurship in rural areas to overcome challenges and build a brighter future.
Why This Matters
Fremont County’s story is more than just a local success—it’s a blueprint for rural economic development. It shows that with the right mindset, collaboration, and focus on local strengths, even struggling communities can thrive.
“Just being based in Fremont County, there’s more attention,” said Sarah Hinkley, co-founder and CEO of Barn Owl Precision Agriculture (BOPA). “We’ve benefited from the economic development organizations in both Fremont County and Otero Counties [where they also have an office in La Junta]. I can call any of the people or organizations in these ecosystems and ask for advice.”
Read the Full Case Study on Startup Colorado
If you’re inspired by Fremont County’s journey and want to dive deeper into their strategies, check out the full case study here.
For more stories and resources on building thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems, visit the Emergent Campus blog.