Success Story _ ConleyWasteManagement
Conley Waste Management | Saguache, CO
The Colorado SBDC in the San Luis Valley proved to be an indispensable asset to Conley Waste Management, providing critical support that extended beyond mere consultation. In a period marked by significant economic challenges, including a 48% increase in refuse truck costs since 2020 and a tight labor market, the Colorado SBDC offered a lifeline. Their expertise in business advising helped Conley Waste Management navigate these hurdles, providing strategic guidance for sustainable growth.
A key contribution was the Colorado SBDC's ability to identify and facilitate access to vital grant opportunities. For a small business like Conley Waste Management, operating in a rural community, the process of finding and applying for grants can be overwhelming. The Colorado SBDC’s targeted approach allowed the company to secure two small business grants, directly fueling their expansion plans. This financial support was pivotal, especially as the company embarked on a significant diversification effort into renewable energy.
Conley Waste Management’s commitment to renewable energy, encompassing 235 acres of land and long-term lease agreements with major solar companies, represents a substantial investment in the community's future. The Colorado SBDC’s support in securing grants enabled the company to allocate resources effectively, ensuring the success of these ambitious projects.
By simplifying the complex grant application process, the Colorado SBDC allowed the company to focus on its core mission: delivering reliable waste management services and expanding into renewable energy. This strategic partnership has enabled Conley Waste Management to not only weather economic storms but also to thrive and contribute positively to its community. The Colorado SBDC's impact is evident in the company's ability to diversify, expand, and create jobs, solidifying its role as a vital community partner.
For more information, visit Conley Waste Management.
“The SBDC is an excellent business aid as they have a variety of management and technical assistance to meet the growing needs of businesses in 2025. We’re happy to be a client and look forward to utilizing the service for future grant related opportunities.”
Elvie Ray Conley, Founder & CEO and Elvie Ray Conley, Jr. M.A., COO
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The Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is Colorado’s most trusted business resource. We empower businesses to launch, advance, and thrive, ultimately fueling innovation, strengthening local economies, and driving economic vitality across the state. Since 1987, the Colorado SBDC has been the state's only nationally accredited, go-to resource for entrepreneurs and business owners at every stage. With 14 Service Centers, over 25 Satellite Centers, and a network of approximately 300 business experts, the Colorado SBDC delivers no-cost, confidential one-on-one advising, essential training, and vital connections to community partners.
The Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Colorado SBDC is a partnership between the State of Colorado, Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, the Small Business Administration (SBA), Colorado’s institutions of higher education, local economic development organizations and local chambers of commerce.
This program is supported by Federal Funding.