Monday, May 10, 2010
BUSINESS GROUP PRESERVES A WAY OF LIFE
What is Grand County Businesses Without Borders all about?
This Grand County organization, GCBWB, has been active in local affairs for six years, and as they enter their seventh, they are reaching out to all Grand County residents, explaining the important role that small businesses play in reinforcing and embracing what is unique about life in this high mountain valley. Chain stores are growing more aggressive throughout Grand County, threatening to change the character of our towns. One-of-a-kind, independent businesses are an integral part of what makes Grand County a great place to live.
Not only is there an emotional twist to their message, there’s also some common sense involved. For every $100 spent at a locally owned business, $68 stays in the local economy, creating jobs and expanding the tax base. For every $100 spent at a national chain or franchise store, only $45 remains in the community. Studies show that locally owned businesses create more jobs locally and, in most instances, provide better wages and benefits than national chains. The owners of local businesses are committed to investing in Grand County’s future. Locally owned businesses contribute more than twice of much of their revenue to charitable causes as corporate chains do.
Entrepreneurship fuels America's economic innovation and prosperity, and serves as a key means for families to move out of low-wage jobs and into the middle class. Plus, the success of locally owned, independent businesses provides real-life inspiration to our young people, proving that they can stay in Grand County and prosper on their own terms.
GCBWB meets twice monthly in networking and referral exchanges. There are no dues or fees, no officers or applications, the group is committed to growing your business. Their twice-monthly meetings are hosted by county business owners. The only requirement is that they must have a Grand County (Colorado) business—with a local address and phone number and be at least 50% owned by an area resident.
Throughout the year, GCBWB hosts and promotes various business showcase opportunities. If you are a Grand County business owner or a person interested in the success of local businesses, you’re welcome. Check them out on Facebook or at their website: www.gcbwb.com
Thursday, January 1, 2009
At least one home-grown organization isn´t letting the sluggish economy prevent it from forging ahead to bolster local businesses.
Five years since it´s inception, Businesses Without Borders has grown to nearly 250 participants.
“In this economy, it´s more important than ever to support our neighbors,” said Borders founding member Francie de Vos, owner of a home gift-basket enterprise called Frank Expressions. “Our main focus is to support and promote Grand County businesses through networking opportunities that can increase leads and referrals. read more
Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - Sky-Hi Daily News, Faces and Places

Another successful Grand County Businesses Without Borders meeting was hosted by Circle H and Chaired by Dr. Craig Kozak. New ideas to survive these challenging times were exchanged. Over 40 participants attended the meeting on March 18. GCBWB's next meeting will be Wednesday, April 1, at The Stitching Post in Granby at 8:30 a.m. GCBWB will partner with the Winter Park Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce in the Fourth Annual Spring Networking Event on May 20 at Fontenot's in Winter Park. Sponsorships are available for this event. Email info@gcbwb.com