OEDIT launches 2018 Blueprint 2.0 Initiatives

Applications open March 15 - Rural Colorado communities encouraged to apply

Launched in 2015, Blueprint 2.0, leverages state partnerships and specialized resources to address the economic development goals of rural areas of Colorado. Blueprint 2.0 is a bottom-up effort to turn regional feedback on local economic needs into a statewide set of initiatives to advance the economies of rural communities. In 2017, 17 communities across the state benefited from Blueprint 2.0 initiatives focused on place-making, branding, co-working, small business support, film production, outdoor recreation and tourism promotion. Past Blueprint 2.0 recipients have received technical assistance developing tourism assets, strategic business growth action plans and even a tiny home master plan.   The following eight initiatives will be offered in 2018: Brand Building for Communities Colorado Rural Academy for Tourism: CRAFT Studio 201 Grow Your Outdoor Recreation Industry Coworking 101 Certified Small Business Community Film and Major Production Initiative Creativity Lab of Colorado Launch a Sector Partnership Communities interested in a Blueprint 2.0 initiative are encouraged to learn more and apply online at choosecolorado.com/blueprint. Applicants will be asked to demonstrate collaboration, strong local leadership and solid support for the initiative they chose to pursue. Blueprint 2.0 applications are due on June 1, 2018 and winning communities will be announced in early July. Questions about the program or application process should be directed to Danielle Lendriet at 303-929-1042 or danielle.lendriet@state.co.us or Meridith Marshall at 303-892-3850 or meridith.marshall@state.co.us.