Small Business Spirit Thrives in Colorado Springs

With the annual Small Business Saturday around the corner on November 25, the Chamber & EDC is sharing highlights of some of our small business members with 25 employees or less.  Small business is a driving force behind the growth of the United States’ economy.  A majority of Chamber & EDC members are small businesses, and they are a main reason for our membership growth this year.  In fact, 65 percent of our members have 25 employees or less, and 48 percent of those have 10 employees or less.

“While the Chamber & EDC is proud to support members of all sizes, we appreciate the risks small businesses take. Small businesses enrich our community.  They unleash a spirit of optimism and courage that drives the entire region forward,” said Nora Hardin, Senior Vice President, Membership and Events of the Chamber & EDC.

The small business spirit is thriving in Colorado Springs with owners such as Luisa Graff, CEO of Luisa Graff Jewelers.  “Building a business takes longer than you think and requires more work than you expect but it can be done, and it is amazing – so keep on dreaming,” said Graff.

With a service first mentality, small businesses add to our community with their dedication to customers.  “One of the main reasons small businesses are unique is service. We know our customers, and we understand their tastes and their habits,” said Jerry Rutledge, Owner of Rutledge’s.

On a similar note, Jon-Michael Horst, President and CEO of The Cooks Marketplace said, “My favorite part about owning a business is our customers.  Building relationships is at the heart of what we do. We are a local business which allows us to have one-on-one relationships within our store.”

Looking for a way to shop small?  The Downtown Partnership will host its annual Small Business Saturday event on November 25, offering great shopping and dining deals, as well as free parking at downtown meters all day.