CLIMATE + ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Climate Statement for West Slope Startup Week

The effects of climate change are not restricted to energy or sustainability verticals; all businesses will be affected through direct impacts, evolving regulations, or changing markets. The challenge to reduce our collective impact on the planet touches every aspect of how we do business. That’s why West Slope Startup Week is introducing a climate statement to inform this year’s event.

At West Slope Startup Week, we celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation endemic to Rural Colorado. There’s no better place to foster meaningful action—not only against climate change, but FOR a clean, healthy, and prosperous future.

As such, our mission extends beyond fostering entrepreneurship; it includes igniting a culture of climate awareness and innovation that can lead to meaningful environmental impact. This climate statement serves as our guiding philosophy, informing every aspect of our event—from operations to programming—and highlighting the critical role that entrepreneurs play in combating climate change.

Climate Action: An Entrepreneurial Challenge

As we face growing environmental challenges, the need for agility and innovative action has never been more critical. Who better than entrepreneurs to meet this challenge? We are uniquely positioned to drive change, leveraging our creative, “think-outside-the-box” minds to develop solutions that can mitigate climate impacts and promote sustainability. No matter our industry or job title.

The Western Slope: A Hub for Climate Innovation?

Colorado’s Western Slope, with its unique geographic and cultural landscape, is primed to become a leader in climate innovation. Our region fosters a natural connection to the environment, a strong community spirit, and a growing network of innovators dedicated to making the world a better place. By harnessing these strengths, we can drive the development and deployment of climate conscious businesses.

West Slope Startup Week can serve as a catalyst for greater climate action and sustainable business operations across the region.

Climate Action in Practice

At West Slope Startup Week, we recognize the critical importance of sustainability in fostering a vibrant and resilient community. Our commitment to sustainability encompasses not only the environmental impact of our event, but also the well-being of our rural entrepreneurs and places we call home. By striving to make West Slop Startup Week a zero-waste event and reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, we aim to set a standard for responsible event planning and inspire positive change within our network.

West Slope Startup Week is powered by Startup Colorado, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that supports entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders in 53 rural counties.