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.
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.
Awards and Recognition
“It’s an incredible honor to see the Multicultural Business and Entrepreneur Center recognized at this level,” said 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.
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.