May 11, 2008
Grand Junction MSA Strong In Economic Prosperity
The 2008 Aelera Regional Economic Prosperity Index (REPI) ranked the Grand Junction Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) 34th in the country for economic prosperity. The Grand Junction MSA's strong performance in employment growth, output growth, wage growth and unemployment rates, contributed to its high ranking on the Index.
The Grand Junction area economy performed significantly below average in indicators designed to measure the areas future competitive position. One such indicator, 'Young Knowledge Workers,' measures the percentage of population aged 25 -35 with a bachelor's degree or higher. Another measure, the 'Knowledge Economy' indicator, examines the percentage of workforce employed in "knowledge-intensive occupations".
According to Ann Driggers of GJEP, 'this report gives us plenty of good news, but at the same time demonstrates that we have much yet to accomplish to create a truly strong, diverse and sustainable economy. In order to do this we need to focus our attentions on growing the industries and job opportunities of the future, specifically those in a knowledge-based economy".
To view the full report follow this link: 2008 Aelera Regional Economic Prosperity Index
Moms set to juggle time, roles when they run a business
Mothers who quit their work and start businesses usually do it out of consideration for their families, not for personal reasons, says USA TODAY columnist Steve Strauss. A few mothers who have taken the leap into entrepreneurship shared their stories with Strauss. USA TODAY
Grand Junction: 9th Fastest Growing Population in the U.S.
Grand Junction: A Top Winter 2008 Jet-Setting Destination
Campus Life….
People Choice Award WINNER
Please join us in congratulating Katie Brierly of Guera's Chili on her First Place award at the Arbor Day Chili Cook-Off at the Lincoln Park Barn. If you have not already tried Katie’s Chili, you are missing out. We love it!
No TAB this month
Client Company Lunch
Topic: Video for your website: How to use it, Where to use it, and Why to use it.
Speaker: Joel Leon
Where & When: Tuesday, May 20 at noon in the training room
Upcoming Workshops at the Incubator….
How to Start Construction-Related a Business
Want to know what the Planning Department requires for a contractor’s license? Bob Lee Director of the City/County Building Department can tell you how to get your license and become a building contractor. Julie Morey will address licensing requirements, the business planning process and how to apply for a business loan. Cost: $45.
When: Thursday, May 22 from 9:00 - 11:30 AM
USDA Rural Development Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Grant Program
Pattie Snidow, the Northwest Area Director for USDA Rural Development will be leading this seminar for private sector small businesses in rural towns of population of 50,000 or less, or agriculture producers. This grant program covers energy efficiency upgrades to commercial building or installation of market proven products for Renewable Energy for up to 25% of the total project cost.
Maximum Grant - Energy Efficiency $250,000 / Renewable Energy $500,000
In addition, loan guarantees with your local bank could be available to support most of the project.
When: Thursday, June 5 from 1:00 - 5:00 PM
Understanding Bookkeeping & Financial Statements
Instructor Helen Roe works with the Loan Fund of Mesa County and was recognized as the 2005-06 Outstanding Woman Accountant by the American Society of Women Accountants. Both classes include a question and answer period. Take advantage of this opportunity to have Helen address your specific questions! Cost is $45.00 per class or $55.00 when you register for both bookkeeping classes.
Session I
This class is designed for new business start-ups and focuses on how to set up business accounting records, how to track income and expenses and what types of expenses are deductible.
When: Wednesday, June 11 from 1:00-4:00 PM
Session II
This class, designed for new and existing businesses, will help you gain better control of your business by learning how balance sheets, income statements and cash flow projections are prepared and what they can tell you about your business.
When: Thursday, June 12, from 1:00-4:00 PM
Taxes and the Small Business Owner
Simple answers to business tax issues. To start, Pamela J. Belcher CPA will discuss such topics as: keeping track of and paying all your business taxes, computing and filing payroll taxes, satisfying state and federal guidelines, depreciating items like a home office, or automobile, and working with independent contractors versus employees. In the afternoon, Colorado Department of Revenue representative Bruce Kolisek, as well as representatives from the Department of Labor Employment, will discuss state withholding taxes, sales tax issue and unemployment and use tax. Cost: $45.
When: Thursday, June 19 from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
How to Start Food-Related a Business
Come learn all the basics of starting a food related business. You will learn about health regulations, packaging requirements, licensing requirements, business planning and how to fund it all. Cost: $45.
When: Thursday, June 26 from 9:00 - 11:30 AM
