| A Virtual Business Incubator created by Adams State College in Alamosa, Colorado, is expanding and coordinating business support and educational services that five local organizations are already providing in the San Luis Valley in Southern Colorado. The organizations include San Luis Valley Community Connections, El Telar, San Luis Valley Development Resources Group, San Luis Valley Christian Community Services, and Adams State College Small Business Development Center.
By creating this network, the incubator hopes to increase the capacity of individual organizations to serve local businesses. Network members are working together to develop programs that share resources, eliminate overlap in services, improve customer service, and strengthen communication. Current programs include a microenterprise loan program, a volunteer network of experienced business mentors, a web site, and workshops for network members.
Unemployment in the San Luis Valley is almost double the statewide rate. While the area has a good economy, based on agriculture and other resources, more than one-quarter of its population remains in poverty. Adams State College has leveraged almost $230,000 for the business-assistance project.
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