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Colorado Companies to Watch energizes the state of Colorado by recognizing second-stage companies that are developing valuable products and services, creating quality jobs, enriching communities, and creating new industries throughout the state. Second-stage companies fuel the economic fire of Colorado by accounting for much of the economic growth and economic independence of individuals throughout the state. 

This unique awards program developed by the Edward Lowe Foundation produces a multitude of benefits for all stakeholders.

Participating companies have the opportunity to gain increased visibility in local and state communities as well as to improve stakeholder relationships and contribute to a dynamic business environment. Citizens will have increased access to rewarding income opportunities and be able to build pride in innovative and valuable entrepreneurial companies. The state of Colorado will be able to showcase trend-setting leaders in diverse entrepreneurial fields that strengthen the state's economy.

Do you know of a company that's worth watching? Nominate that company. If yours is such a company, apply directly.

Who is Colorado Companies to Watch

Colorado Companies to Watch is presented by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade in association with the following members of the Advisory Board:  Arvada Economic Development, Colorado Lending Source, Colorado Rural Development Council, Edward Lowe Foundation, Jefferson County Business Resource Center, Jefferson Economic Council, Littleton Business and Industry Office and the City of Westminster Economic Development Office.

It is our goal to provide a top-notch program our businesses, community leaders, and State government can be proud of -- a program that will be recognized widely, giving the state of Colorado and its companies increased visibility throughout the nation.

We are excited to announce the launch of this dynamic business recognition program that celebrates second-stage companies.  This unique program will identify second-stage (growing) companies in Colorado.

At the first annual awards event to be held June 25, 2009 - 50 of these growing companies will be recognized for their contribution to the economic vitality of Colorado.

Benefits of Colorado Companies to Watch

Two basic traits ensure Companies to Watch is different from many existing awards programs. Because the program focuses on our entire state and not specific industries, it provides an opportunity to paint a realistic picture of a true statewide economy. Since applicants are evaluated on more than growth, it widens the playing field to companies not often recognized for the critical differences they make in their industry, their community, region and our state.

Participating companies and sponsors will:

• Gain more visibility
• Opportunities for Collaboration
• Improved Stakeholder Relationships
• Strong Recruiting Tool
• Showcase the State support in the Creation of Jobs
• Build Pride in Innovative Colorado Companies
• Educate Citizens to the Value of 2nd Stage Companies
• Learn more about Sponsorship Opportunities

When is Colorado Companies to Watch

Company nominations are due by January 9, 2008 at 5:00 p.m. Nominate a business now! A top-notch event honoring the awardees and recognizing the contribution second-stage companies make statewide will be held in the Denver area on the evening of Thursday, June 25, 2009. Additional details about the event and ticket purchasing to come.