Primed for Prosperity
Stretching across Colorado’s western expanse, the Northwest territory embodies resilience, self-reliance, and a pioneering spirit that has fueled innovation for generations. The magnificent landscape and rich heritage inspire bold action and boundless energy. Here, you can build a life that embraces challenges, honors tradition, and fuels the future.
Tap into AGNC’s network of collaborators, innovators, and dream makers. With economic development programs, grants, funding opportunities, tax credits, and contribution projects, we provide tools to turn vision into reality. Put our 50+ years of experience to work. We’re here to help you start, grow, or relocate your business.
Explore the site—then let’s make it happen.
- Lower Costs & Incentives – maximize profitability with lower operating costs, tax credits, and financial incentives. With available facilities, open space, and pro-business policies, we can help you start, expand, or relocate — million-dollar views included.
- Strong Workforce & Work Ethic – Hire skilled, hardworking talent. With expertise in engineering, mechanical operations, agriculture, and energy, Northwest Colorado offers a low-turnover workforce and direct access to workforce development programs and higher education.
- Unmatched Quality of Life – Live where others vacation. From red rock canyons to 14,000-ft peaks, enjoy a four-season playground, vineyards, orchards, and the kind of wide-open spaces that build bold hearts and strong minds.
- Entrepreneurial Spirit – Trailblazers welcome. Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding a business, establishing an organization, or investing in the future, this is a place where ambition thrives, and bold ideas succeed.
- Market Growth & Expansion – Access key industries, modern infrastructure, and emerging energy markets. Northwest Colorado is pro-business and fueled by collaboration, helping big ideas become a reality. Experience “freedom from friction” and watch opportunity ignite!
Your next move starts here.
Understanding the Districts
Economic Development District (EDD)
AGNC is the Northwest Colorado Economic Development District (EDD) designated by the U.S. Economic Development Administration. EDDs bring counties and communities together to create long-range regional growth strategies. These districts unlock access to federal funding for infrastructure, innovation, and job creation—especially in transitioning economies like Northwest Colorado. AGNC is one of just 400 EDDs nationwide.
Enterprise Zone (EZone)
Enterprise Zone (EZone) status brings tax credit incentives to businesses investing in distressed areas. These tools help spark private investment, create jobs, and fuel regional community development projects. AGNC manages the Northwest Colorado Enterprise Zone.
Council of Governments (COG)
The Council of Governments (COG) is how rural communities team up to advance strategic planning for regional economic resilience. Through the COG, local governments form a collective voice on the impacts of issues such as transportation, infrastructure, housing, energy, and technology, and more. Collaboratively, the COG collaborates with state and federal agencies to coordinate resources and investments in Northwest Colorado.
Members
A regional anchor with deep roots in natural resources and recreation, Garfield County is driving new investment while holding fast to what makes the Western Slope special.
The economic hub of the Grand Valley, Mesa County brings strength in logistics, healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism, with bold leadership to match.
Home to Craig Station and the Trapper Mine, Moffat County is at ground zero for Colorado’s coal transition—and building a new industrial future with confidence and clarity.
With energy, agriculture, and unmatched open space, Rio Blanco is leveraging its strengths to pursue resilience in workforce, infrastructure, and investment.
Based in Steamboat Springs, this high-functioning partnership champions business development, housing, workforce, and broadband—all while embracing Routt County’s rural DNA and entrepreneurial culture.
Associate Members
Known for agriculture, energy, and tight-knit communities, Delta County is advancing growth without losing its roots.
Grand County offers a business opportunity in the heart of Colorado's resort county, with surprising affordability. Home to world-class destinations like Winter Park Resort, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Colorado's largest natural lake, Grand Lake.
A dynamic region that’s rising fast with pro-business leadership, robust infrastructure, and room to grow.
CHFA provides critical funding for affordable housing and small businesses across Colorado—including deep rural investment.
Focused on economic inclusion, this fund backs underserved rural entrepreneurs with capital and support.
A rural knowledge hub delivering broadband access, learning resources, and community space across the region.
A wholesale power supplier helping to keep the lights on in rural Colorado—now adapting to an evolving energy grid.
Affiliated & Municipal Members
A planned community rooted in oil and gas now diversifying into housing and retail development.
High-altitude economy blending mining history, outdoor tourism, and forward-thinking economic planning.
Nestled in Plateau Valley, Collbran blends agricultural roots with opportunities in tourism and remote work.
A pivotal energy town reimagining its future with industrial land, a strong workforce, and local vision.
This Colorado River town balances its legacy in oil shale with fresh momentum in tourism and land use.
Gateway to Dinosaur National Monument, this town brings geotourism and outdoor economy opportunities.
Fruita’s reputation as an outdoor mecca supports a growing economy of recreation, retail, and remote work.
Steeped in mining and surrounded by wilderness, Gilpin is building on its strengths with new vision.
A gateway to Rocky Mountain adventure, Grand is investing in tourism, housing, and rural infrastructure.
Once defined by its power plant, Hayden is rewriting its story with industrial reuse and community projects.
Remote and resilient, Jackson County values independence and is investing in the basics.
This White River Valley town is rich in tradition and opening up to new industries in tourism and agtech.
A fast-growing town with access to I-70, New Castle balances historic preservation with modern growth.
Built on coal, now powered by culture, Oak Creek is embracing small-town innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Western Slope’s wine country hub blends agriculture, tourism, and artisan business with small-town grit.
Parachute’s legacy in energy is now expanding into logistics, housing, and community development.
This energy town and college community is pivoting toward innovation in industry and education.
A regional center on the Colorado River with active redevelopment and a clear economic vision.
A rural town with strong regional ties, Silt is building its future with determination and a clear sense of place.
Gateway to the Flat Tops and proud of its ranching roots, Yampa is staying true to its frontier spirit.
Join the Network That’s Shaping Northwest Colorado’s Future
AGNC isn’t just a coalition—it’s a catalyst. Our members shape the future of Northwest Colorado through collaboration, grit, and vision. If your community, organization, or agency is ready to engage in real progress, there’s a seat at the table for you.