Success Story _ Grand Valley Micro Farms
Grand Valley Micro Farms | Grand Junction, CO
When brothers Phil and Nate Strouse first decided to start their own business, they couldn't think of a better place to start than their home of Grand Junction, Colorado. They envisioned Grand Valley Micro Farms as a local hub providing the community with nutrient-dense microgreens, believing deeply that community engagement is essential for a business to thrive.
While they had a successful business model in mind, they needed precise guidance to bring their vision to life. In July 2021, the brothers turned to the Colorado SBDC in Mesa County.
After attending the "How to Start a Business in Western Colorado" class, they recognized the Colorado SBDC would be their operational nexus. Phil noted the immediate impact: "The SBDC's strategy sessions and networking opportunities served as both catalyst and course-corrector in this first year producing and showcasing our microgreens..."
Nate emphasized the critical support they received: "The resources from the experienced staff in a variety of specialties, the available courses and camaraderie of other entrepreneurs have been invaluable. In hindsight, we wouldn't have survived the first year if we had proceeded on our own. We view the SBDC partnership as essential to any small business startup."
Within just three months of intensive advising and coaching, they successfully launched Grand Valley Micro Farms in January 2022. Their association with the SBDC instantly provided them with credibility, vital connections to local business groups, and a network of new clients. Grand Valley Micro Farms has now established a robust distribution network, ensuring Grand Valley residents can purchase their premium products year-round.
For more information, visit Grand Valley Micro Farms.
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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.