EP 121: How Startup Colorado Is Rethinking Access To Capital, Founder Mentorship, and Support for Rural Entrepreneurs

Dec 29, 2025

24:58

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Rural entrepreneurship is not a niche story or a lifestyle choice but a high-stakes engine for job creation, community survival and the future of Colorado’s economy.

This episode features a candid conversation with Brittany Romano of Startup Colorado about what entrepreneurship in rural communities actually requires when access to capital mentorship and networks is limited. Drawing from her own experience as a rural founder Brittany explains why many Colorado startups remain in a prolonged startup phase and how rural business growth depends on long-term support rather than quick wins. What happens when strong businesses fall into the missing middle between small business and venture scale? How do founders build momentum when funding and advisors are harder to reach?

The conversation also reframes rural economic development as essential to statewide competitiveness rather than philanthropy. Startup Colorado’s work highlights why small business support in rural areas sustains jobs, strengthens communities and makes it possible for people to live and work across the state. For listeners interested in startup funding in Colorado or building companies outside major metros this episode offers a grounded perspective on why rural entrepreneurship deserves serious attention.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Why Rural Entrepreneurship Matters for Colorado’s Economy

05:40 The Real Challenges Facing Rural Entrepreneurs

10:54 Access to Capital and the Rural Funding Gap

17:00 Building Strong Startup Ecosystems Outside Major Cities

23:40 How Listeners Can Support Rural Founders and Communities

Links:

Visit Howdy Partners

Bridge Entrepreneurs Network Colorado

Connect with Brittany Romano:

Connect with Brittany on LinkedIn

Visit the Startup Colorado website