The City of Fort Collins Multicultural Business and Entrepreneur Center (MBEC) received a 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The award was bestowed specifically for the organization’s work in the Entrepreneurial & Small Business Development category that impacted 25,000-200,000 residents.
The MBEC is the city’s free bilingual (English and Spanish) center, welcoming all current and aspiring business owners. MBEC makes it easy for entrepreneurs to access business services, understand licensing and permits and receive guidance on catching up on regulatory requirements. The center connects businesses to the resources they need to start, grow and thrive in Fort Collins, including access to specialized training and support.
“It’s an incredible honor to see the Multicultural Business and Entrepreneur Center recognized at this level,” says SeonAh Kendall, economic health office director. “Our work is deeply collaborative, and this recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of all our partners across Northern Colorado. Together, we are dedicated to ensuring that entrepreneurs in Fort Collins, especially those from underrepresented and underserved communities, have equitable access to the resources they need to succeed. Small, local businesses are the heartbeat of our city’s economy, and by breaking down barriers and creating pathways to opportunity, we help ensure that every entrepreneur has the chance to thrive.”
The IEDC judges praised MBEC’s work to have and facilitate dedicated communication channels between different governmental departments to remove barriers for entrepreneurs.
“The City of Fort Collins is setting the standard of excellence for economic development with its MBEC project. This award highlights Fort Collins’ commitment to its community and demonstrates the transformative impact of economic development,” says Nathan Ohle, IEDC president and CEO. “It is with great pride that IEDC presents this award to The City of Fort Collins, celebrating their leadership and innovation in the field of economic development.”
“We are absolutely thrilled to announce this year’s award winners. These exceptional projects showcase remarkable dedication and ingenuity within the field,” says Kevin Kramer, chair of IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards Advisory Committee. “The City of Fort Collins’ contributions will leave a lasting impact and demonstrate its commitment to creating positive change for its residents.”
Every year, IEDC looks specifically for economic development organizations, government entities, initiatives and programs that have demonstrated consistent, exemplary performance in the economic development profession, leading the execution of projects that have a significant impact on revitalizing communities and playing a major role in shaping and improving the practice of economic development.