Founded in FoCo 2025: Full Schedule

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8:30am MDT

Coffee

Thursday March 13, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am MDT

Resource Hub (Prairie 2 & 3)

Thursday March 13, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am MDT
Resource Hub (Prairie 2 & 3) 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

8:30am MDT

Registration

Thursday March 13, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am MDT

Entrance

Thursday March 13, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am MDT
Entrance 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

8:30am MDT

Business Resource Hub

Thursday March 13, 2025 8:30am - 4:30pm MDT

Resource Hub (Prairie 2 & 3)

Visit local businesses, discover community resources, and enjoy coffee.

Thursday March 13, 2025 8:30am - 4:30pm MDT
Resource Hub (Prairie 2 & 3) 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

9:00am MDT

Kung Fu Clarity - Ninja Strategies for Connection

Thursday March 13, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am MDT

Twinberry Auditorium

What if you could stand out In today's fast-paced, noise-filled business landscape? More than just innovation; is required, it demands strategic clarity. This session will equip you with the "ninja" skills to navigate the complexities of modern business and forge meaningful connections.

Drawing inspiration from the ancient martial art of Kung Fu, you'll learn practical strategies to:

Cut through the clutter: Learn to identify and eliminate distractions that hinder your focus and progress.

Master the art of listening: Discover how to truly understand your clients, colleagues, and partners, fostering deeper connections.

Channel your inner warrior: Unleash your potential and build the resilience needed to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.

Forge lasting relationships: Develop effective communication and networking skills to build strong, mutually beneficial partnerships.

Join us for an interactive and insightful session that will leave you empowered to navigate the complexities of the modern business world with confidence and clarity.

Julie is a martial arts student who has studied Kung Fu and Tai Chi in Northern Colorado for 10 years

Speakers

Julie Ulstrup

Business Strategist and Consultant for Ambitious Entrepreneurs, Julie Ulstrup Business Strategy and Consulting

Julie Ulstrup is THE go to business strategist and coach for experienced mission driven entrepreneurs who want to start or grow a profitable business so they can have more time and money freedom. With a lifetime spent perfecting the art clarity, she helps ambitious clients 2X their... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am MDT
Twinberry Auditorium 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Thematic Keynote

Subject Strategy, People, Leadership, Communication Skills, Social, Networking, Small & Medium Business, Solopreneur/Freelancers, Creativity, Mindset
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9:00am MDT

Quiet Room: Recharge In The Park - Day 3

Thursday March 13, 2025 9:00am - 5:00pm MDT

Art Studio

Recharge In The Park is a space dedicated to recharging your energy levels as you charge your electronic devices. Walking into this relaxing space, you'll notice plants, nature sounds, comfy places to sit, and phone chargers. You'll be invited to silence your devices, sit quietly, and just breathe. A table will be set up with additional relaxation tools such as journal prompts, essential oils, magazines/books, herbal tea, and community resources to support your mental health.

This space is perfect for those who may need some quiet, non-talking time to recharge and rebalance their nervous systems so they can continue enjoying an otherwise high-energy conference.

Thursday March 13, 2025 9:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Art Studio 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Mental Health Track

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10:00am MDT

Harnessing AI Responsibly: Ethical Practices for Business Growth and Trust SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT

Sand Lily

As AI becomes more integral to business operations, the need for responsible use is paramount. This session dives into the critical role of ethical AI, empowering small businesses and non-profits to harness the power of AI while maintaining integrity and building trust with customers. We’ll explore real-world examples of businesses that have successfully implemented AI while addressing concerns around data privacy, bias, and transparency. You'll walk away with actionable steps to integrate AI in a way that not only drives innovation and growth but also aligns with your company’s values and fosters long-term customer loyalty. In a world increasingly driven by technology, responsible AI use isn’t just an option—it’s a business imperative.

Speakers

Dayle Wickizer

Bridging Technology and Business, Simplifying Innovation for Real-World Impact, Intentional Results

With over 20 years of leadership experience in operations, strategy, and technology, Dayle Wickizer is passionate about helping small businesses thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. As the founder of Intentional Results, Dayle focuses on bridging the gap between innovative technology... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT
Sand Lily 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

AI Track

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10:00am MDT

Being a Good Employer Improves Profits SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT

Foxtail 1

Is being a world-class employer too expensive? Owners of growing businesses yearn to offer jobs like they themselves would take. But what about the fear of high costs against low return on investment? Wise leaders learn methods to tie high performance of employees who earn a living wage and benefits to better services and better products. Learn cutting-edge methods to avoid the "Vicious Circle" of low pay, low service, declining revenues. Instead, set up the "Virtuous Circle" of decent pay, great service, and increasing revenues.

Speakers

Robert Anderson

Director, Business Navigators, Colorado Enterprise Fundm, Director, Business Navigators

• Manages CEF's team of in-house small business consultants trained to help our borrowers succeed. • Has a track record of small business success, identifying harmful constraints and implementing solutions to restore long-term organizational and financial health. Also served in... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT
Foxtail 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Builder Track

Subject People, Growth, Leadership
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10:00am MDT

Painted Baby: Connect with Clients Through Brave and Vulnerable Storytelling SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT

Foxtail 2

Painting a picture of perfection prevents true connection.

Every business leader has a dirty little secret tucked away, never dreaming they would share it with anyone, let alone prospective clients. But revealing it tells an important story and lays the groundwork for genuine connections between you, your clients, and those you serve. It inspires others, showing them that honesty is a priority and accountability is unconditional.

Revealing this secret empowers you to show the best version of yourself by sharing how you have handled your worst moments—which is exactly what your clients want to understand.

In Painted Baby, serial entrepreneur Matt Shoup shows how to establish real and deep connections, build true rapport, and create long-lasting trust with clients and others you serve. He invites you on an empowering journey to explore your imperfections and grow comfortable with your guard down, allowing the rawest, most compelling version of yourself to shine through. You’ll learn the tenets of great storytelling, why crafting your message counts, and how to communicate with conviction, even when you’re vulnerable. Are you ready for a challenge? Step outside your comfort zone with this innovative approach to embracing imperfection.

Speakers

Matt Shoup

Entrepreneur, Author, Speaker, M & E Painting and Roofing and MattShoup.com

Matt Shoup is a Jesus follower, husband, father, an award-winning serial entrepreneur, author, keynote speaker, Spain aficionado, aspiring paella chef, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt, and Spanish coffee addict. Matt’s entrepreneurial journey began at the age of 10, when he started... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT
Foxtail 2 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Builder Track

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10:00am MDT

Stop the Revolving Door: Build and Motivate High-Performing Teams That Stay SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT

Stage

Are your top performers heading for the door while the ones you wish would leave stick around? Is turnover leaving you stuck in the weeds, tackling operational headaches instead of focusing on strategy? Retaining top talent doesn’t happen by accident—it takes the right systems, clarity, and leadership to create a workplace where high performers thrive.

In this session, we’ll explore what’s driving your retention challenges and the hidden factors pushing your best employees out the door. You’ll discover how to create a work environment that supports, motivates, and keeps top talent, while reducing the frustrations that hold your team—and your business—back.

This session will not only provide fresh insights but also give you actionable tools to slow the revolving door immediately. Turn your team into your biggest competitive advantage.

Speakers

Samantha C. Prestidge

Chief Solutions Enthusiast, I Help Owners & Leaders Overcome Growing Pains and Build High-Performing Teams

Samantha C. Prestidge is the founder of Auxo Business Services, a consultancy dedicated to empowering managers, streamlining operations, and building high-performing teams for growing businesses. With years of experience partnering with field-service companies, nonprofits, and entrepreneurial... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT
Stage 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Builder Track

Subject People, Communication Skills, Small & Medium Business, Leadership, Strategy
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10:00am MDT

How to Finish Unfinished Business in 90 Days SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT

Twinberry Auditorium

Do you have a mile long To Do List that never seems to get any shorter? Are you running on fumes while still failing to check the box on what’s most important? If your answer is yes, you’re not alone. The majority of our Western World is stuck in a constant uphill battle to strive and achieve more and more productivity, efficiency, and measurable outcomes while our health – physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual - is overtaxed, rundown, and in desperate need of rest and restoration. In essence, we’re accumulating a bigger, heavier load of unfinished business while becoming less and less resourced and capable of resolving it.

In this session, together with presenter and guide Lisa Cheney-Philp, you will explore a less-traveled path to relief from the burden of unfinished business that can be meaningfully navigated within 90 days. First, Lisa will weave together insights and teaching from lifecycle theory, somatic psychotherapy, time management philosophy, and end-of-life care planning practices, so that you can gain a fresh perspective on all that is distracting, peripheral, and beyond your control. Second, from this perspective you will be invited to bring to the center that which remains incomplete, out of alignment with your core values, and longing for your care and attention (it’s probably not what you think!). Lastly, you will receive a holistic, intentional and restorative action planning tool, and be guided through the process of using it, to help you define and successfully complete the next steps that are yours to take within the next 90 days.

Speakers

Lisa Cheney-Philp

Founder & CEO, Women of the Water

Lisa Cheney-Philp is a Death Doula, Grief Practitioner, Creative Facilitator, Artist, River Guide, and the Founder of Women of the Water where she creatively and intuitively supports women, families, and groups moving through experiences of death, dying, grief and loss with companionship... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT
Twinberry Auditorium 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Mental Health Track

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10:00am MDT

Beat the Burnout! SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT

Prairie Sage 1

Most business owners are working harder, and working more, trying to get it ALL done, while burning out in the process. Get control of your time and energy and boost your professional success with a few simple and easy-to-implement productivity tools that will help you decrease stress while increasing your impact, and income!

In this interactive session, you'll learn strategies to manage your time and energy so you don't burn out, including:

1. How to use the 80/20 rule to get better results doing less
2. Get clear on your WHY and say no to everything else so you become THE expert in your industry
3. How to use your schedule to earn more working fewer hours

Speakers

Chrysta Bairre

Mental Health Speaker and Author, Live Love Work

Chrysta Bairre is an advocate for herself and others. As a child she grew up in poverty, surrounded by family members with mental illness and addiction, while her own non-apparent disability went unrecognized and undiagnosed. A queer woman with several disabilities, she fought to... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT
Prairie Sage 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Solopreneur/Freelancer Track

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10:00am MDT

Messages from our Childhood That Hold Us Back SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT

Lupine

Early in childhood, you were taught not to talk to strangers or take money from strangers, the two things you have to do in sales. In this session, we will review some of the common messages from childhood that hold you back in selling yourself, or product and your ideas.

Speakers

Wayne Dehn

Author and certified sales trainer, 3D TRAINING LLC

After 15 years in non-profit management and two Emmy Nominations for Telethon production, Wayne began his journey in sales as a representative for a non-profit trade association offering benefits and services to Small Business America. Soon promotion to national management positions... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT
Lupine 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Solopreneur/Freelancer Track

Subject People, Marketing, Sales, Small & Medium Business
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10:15am MDT

Writing Your Artist Statement! SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:15am - 12:15pm MDT

Gregory Allicar Museum of Art's Robert W. Hoffert Learning Center [Offsite]

Calling all artists, writers, and creatives: emerging or established, mid-career or hobbyist!

Stumped by your artist statement? Don’t know where to start, what to say, or how long it should be? Have an existing statement that feels out of date or doesn’t accurately represent you or your work?

Discover the answers to these questions and more at Writing Your Artist Statement, an interactive workshop led by Madeleine Boyson, regional arts writer and editor.

Together we'll discover your work in your own voice, cover best practices, create new frameworks for statements, and build creative community in the process. Bring an existing statement or start from scratch!

Speakers

Madeleine Boyson

Arts and Culture Writer, Editor, + Communications Coordinator, Gregory Allicar Museum of Art

Madeleine Boyson (she/her) is a Denver-based writer, poet, and artist. She holds a BA in Art History and History from the University of Denver and makes her living as a communications professional, editorial coordinator, and arts writer.

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:15am - 12:15pm MDT
Gregory Allicar Museum of Art's Robert W. Hoffert Learning Center [Offsite] 1400 Remington StFort Collins, CO 80524

Creative Track, Workshop

Subject People, Growth, Communication Skills, Social, Creativity, Solopreneur/Freelancers, Networking
Format Workshop

10:45am MDT

Morning Break

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:15am MDT

Resource Hub (Prairie 2 & 3)

Thursday March 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:15am MDT
Resource Hub (Prairie 2 & 3) 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

11:15am MDT

Panel Topic: "AI Unplugged: Real-Time Insights, Trends, and Your Burning Questions Answered"

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT

Twinberry Auditorium

In this dynamic, interactive session, our expert panelists will dive into the latest AI trends, share practical tips, and provide actionable insights to help solopreneurs, small businesses, and non-profits harness the power of AI. From understanding emerging AI technologies to integrating practical tools into your daily operations, this panel will cover it all. Come prepared with your questions! Whether you're curious about AI's role in marketing, operations, or customer service, our panelists will offer tailored advice and real-world examples. This session ensures you leave with clarity and confidence about incorporating AI into your business, while staying ahead of the curve on the latest developments.
Perfect for those looking to cut through the hype and get straight answers from industry leaders!

Speakers

Dayle Wickizer

Bridging Technology and Business, Simplifying Innovation for Real-World Impact, Intentional Results

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Twinberry Auditorium 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

AI Track

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11:15am MDT

Considerations for a Well-Rounded IP Strategy SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT

Sand Lily

Intellectual property (IP) often becomes an afterthought in the fast-paced entrepreneurship environment. Yet, a thoughtfully crafted IP strategy is essential for protecting and enhancing your business's value at every stage. This session will explore why IP deserves an active, ongoing role in your business planning and how a well-rounded IP strategy can become a dynamic asset as your business evolves.

Join us for a fireside chat led by CSU STRATA’s Director of IP Strategy, Jessica Trostel. We’ll explore the realities of establishing, adapting, and sometimes reshaping IP strategies alongside an attorney experienced in guiding entrepreneurs and an inventor-entrepreneur who has navigated the complex IP landscape. You’ll gain insights into choosing the right IP protections, how to make strategic decisions about adding, dropping, or overlapping IP, and why no single type of IP is inherently more valuable than another.

This discussion, perfect for founders, innovators, and business leaders, will offer practical tips on making IP a cornerstone of your business strategy.

Speakers

Jessica Trostel

Director of IP Strategy, CSU STRATA

Jessica joined CSU STRATA in 2018 to support the Colorado State University System’s technology transfer team in licensing efforts and protecting intellectual property. In 2021, Jessica became the Director of Intellectual Property Strategy to lead the development of the system’s... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Sand Lily 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Builder Track

Subject Strategy, Technology, Small & Medium Business, Growth
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11:15am MDT

From Fluff to Facts: Find The Real Truth Through Conversations SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT

Foxtail 2

Are you tired of market research conversations that seem to go nowhere? I’ll walk you through my approach to asking the right questions—the kind that lead to real, actionable feedback. It’s not about surface-level chats or vague promises; it’s about getting specific, diving deep, and learning what really drives your customers.

The key? It’s not about pitching your idea. In fact, it’s about avoiding it entirely. I’ll show you how to shift the conversation to focus on your customers' lives, their problems, and their real-world experiences. Instead of asking hypothetical questions like, "Would you use this?" or "Do you think it's a good idea?" you’ll learn how to ask about what they’ve actually done. That way, even your mom couldn’t lie to you about it!

Here’s what you’ll get out of it:

A new approach to customer conversations: Learn how to structure chats that reveal actionable insights instead of vague, surface-level responses.

Question techniques that work: Discover the exact questions that dig into past behaviors and help you get past fluff to find the stories that actually matter.

Common pitfalls to avoid: Learn how to steer clear of the mistakes that lead to misleading feedback, like fishing for validation or compliments.

How to get honest feedback: Shift the focus to your customers' real experiences to uncover genuine insights that will shape your product decisions.

Practical tools you can use right away: Walk away with question frameworks and strategies you can start using immediately to make every conversation count.

This session is all about making sure your market research is actually useful, so you can build something your customers really need, not just something they say they want.

Speakers

kateryna quinn

Founder, ASTASH | Uplify AI

Kateryna Quinn is a mom, an immigrant, and a proud small business owner in Northern Colorado. Recognized as a Forbes Next 1000 honoree and one of NOCO's 30 Under 30, she has made a name for herself as a leader in marketing and web design. As the founder of ASTASH an award-winning... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Foxtail 2 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Builder Track

Subject People, Strategy, Growth, Sales, Marketing, Communication Skills, Social, Leadership, Mindset, Networking, Small & Medium Business, Solopreneur/Freelancers
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11:15am MDT

TRUST is Your Competitive Superpower SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT

Foxtail 1

AI is dramatically changing the way customers search and how you get found.

• AI-assisted search means customers find answers without visiting websites
• Gartner expects organic web traffic to drop by 50% by 2026
• AI generated content is flooding the web
• Traditional marketing is becoming less effective

This is making building trust and authority online more important than ever. Traditional search engines, AI search and humans are all looking for signals of experience, expertise, authority and trustworthiness.

Building this trust requires a special kind of content. We like to call this “thought leadership,” but it could also be called “subject matter expertise.” The goal of this type of content is to establish your credibility, differentiate you in a crowded market, and build trust with prospects.

It may sound complex, but you’re actually creating the seeds for this content every single day. Every project you work on, every conversation with prospects and customers, every project meeting can be a source.

In this session, you’ll learn how to turn conversations your team is having every day into impactful content that showcases your expertise.

Content that can be used again and again on multiple platforms to reach the right audience.

We’ll simplify the process using AI tools, making it easy to leverage your existing knowledge and rapidly produce engaging content while maintaining your unique voice.

Discover how to position yourself as a trusted resource, nurturing relationships that lead to
lasting client engagement and growth.

Speakers

Candyce Edelen

LinkedIn Social Selling Expert, PropelGrowth

Candyce Edelen is a seasoned entrepreneur with plenty of road rash earned by co-founding two fin-tech companies, one of which made the Deloitte Fast 50 list in 2004. In 2018, she and her partner decided to pivot to a new target market where they didn’t have an existing network... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Foxtail 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Builder Track

Subject Strategy, Marketing, AI
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11:15am MDT

The Emotion Map: Inspire Joy in others without Toxic Positivity SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT

Stage

⭐ The Emotion Map: Inspire Joy in others without Toxic Positivity
Emotions are great... until they completely suck.
Fear is your friend... until it paralyzes you on the way to your big dreams.
It's ok to feel lost... until you can't find your way out again... and then you text your ex... and you order a case of cheetos... and then the cheetos are gone... and... wait, is that just me?

If you'd like to see a fresh take on the rollercoaster of human emotions, this talk is for you!

As it turns out, we humans are emotional, and we can't always just "leave it at the door". As a leader, managing the emotions of our team can feel like the biggest part of our job - or the most nebulous.

In this talk, I’ll show you the map I created to find my way through the maze as a highly sensitive entrepreneur for over ten years. It has allowed me to use my sensitive empathic nature as an asset, rather than a hindrance, and stay on the path to my goals.

#1 Takeaway: How to navigate through an emotional trigger, and develop Dynamic Positivity, instead of toxic positivity.

#2 Takeaway: Your own Emotional Agility Map to keep!

⭐ The Emotion Map: Inspire Joy in others without Toxic Positivity
Emotions are great... until they completely suck.
Fear is your friend... until it paralyzes you on the way to your big dreams.
It's ok to feel lost... until you can't find your way out again... and then you text your ex... and you order a case of cheetos... and then the cheetos are gone... and... wait, is that just me?

If you'd like to see a fresh take on the rollercoaster of human emotions, this talk is for you!

As it turns out, we humans are emotional, and we can't always just "leave it at the door". As a leader, managing the emotions of our team can feel like the biggest part of our job - or the most nebulous.

In this talk, I’ll show you the map I created to find my way through the maze as a highly sensitive entrepreneur for over ten years. It has allowed me to use my sensitive empathic nature as an asset, rather than a hindrance, and stay on the path to my goals.

#1 Takeaway: How to navigate through an emotional trigger, and develop Dynamic Positivity, instead of toxic positivity.

#2 Takeaway: Your own Emotional Agility Map to keep!

Speakers

Amanda Fuel

Speaking Coach for Leaders & Thought Leaders, Next Level Fuel

Amanda Fuel is here to shake things up in the world of leadership. Her secret mission is to inspire the best parts of ourselves to come out to play, even around serious topics (like emotions), and to make space for uncommon voices - are you an Introvert? Neurodivergent? Don’t fit... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Stage 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Mental Health Track

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11:15am MDT

How to Make Sales and Balance Your Needs as a Neurodivergent Business Owner SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT

Lupine

What is a neurodivergent (autistic or ADHD in this context) business owner supposed to do when they struggle with social interaction, overwhelm, or disorganization but need to make sales to put food on the table?

How do you even START the sales conversation when you feel like you'll NEVER be at good at sales because of the inherent struggles of being autistic or ADHD?

Is it feasible, your neurodivergent needs while still creating a successful business? Is a successful business even possible outside of the "traditional" rules around sales and being an entrepreneur?

In short - yes!

There's a better way!

In this session, we'll discuss some strategies to help set you up for success with proven, actionable steps - both in sales and in your wellbeing!

Speakers

Daisy Montgomery

CEO, Autistics Anonymous

Daisy Montgomery is an autistic and ADHD multi-award-winning speaker, author, and business owner of Autistics Anonymous, a company dedicated to educating on what it’s like to be autistic everyday and working directly with the autistic community to provide opportunities for belonging... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Lupine 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Solopreneur/Freelancer Track

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11:15am MDT

Social Media Alchemy: Transforming Engagement into Revenue SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT

Prairie Sage 1

Unlock the power of storytelling to boost your business! Join us for a dynamic workshop blending creative content with sales strategies. Learn to craft engaging posts, build a loyal audience, and turn followers into customers. Perfect for artisans and entrepreneurs, we'll share real-world tips and success stories. Leave with actionable steps to transform your social media into a sales powerhouse!

Speakers

Jade Shebelski

Chief Content Officer Maven & Muse Media, Maven & Muse Media

I’ve been in the social media space since Netflix sent Dvds in the mail and Amazon was where you bought books. It’s during that era Maven & Muse Media was born from my own journey as a vintage business owner. Where I organically grew a dedicated niche following by sharing the... Read More →

Gabrielle Lopez

Business Development Consultant, Better Business Bureau

Gabby is a multi-entrepreneur with over 15 years experience in design, marketing, sales, and strategic planning. Her passion is helping creative entrepreneurs build a strong brand, clarify their message, and grow their business organically. She is the founder of Morning Tea Coaching... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Prairie Sage 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Solopreneur/Freelancer Track

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12:00pm MDT

Mark serves as the Entrepreneurship Specialist where he strives to community members and schools and students to add more entrepreneurial programs and mindsets into their lives, schools, and businesses. He enjoys doing presentations about the Business Model Canvas and creating tools... Read More →

Sponsors & Partners

Institute for Entrepreneurship at Colorado State University

Thursday March 13, 2025 1:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Foxtail 2 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Builder Track, Workshop

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2:00pm MDT

Building a Brand Identity That Sets You Up for Success SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT

Foxtail 1

In an unpredictable world, your brand identity is more than just a logo or tagline—it’s the foundation that helps your company connect, adapt and thrive. In this session, we’ll explore how to build a brand identity that:
- resonates with your target audience
- can flex with change
- creates lasting connections with your community
- integrates the latest innovations, like AI, to stay relevant in an evolving market.
We will talk about why a brand identity matters, what makes up a brand identity, and how it can help you connect authentically and create resiliency.

Speakers

Lori Wiles

Owner, Fractional CMO, Lori Wiles Fractional CMO

Lori Wiles, ABC, is a marketing and branding expert with more than 30 years in start-up, medium, and Fortune 500 companies. She excels at building brands that stand apart and excel at growth. Creating a strong brand involves setting clear direction, identifying messaging that resonates... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Foxtail 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Builder Track

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2:00pm MDT

Mastering the Intangibles: Build a Business You Can Sell Tomorrow (and Love Running Forever) SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT

Stage

This talk dives into the often-overlooked drivers of true business value: the intangible capitals. Building a business that's ready for sale tomorrow means creating an enterprise so strong, scalable, and self-sufficient that you might never want to part with it. Jill will guide attendees through actionable steps to assess, improve, and maximize their business’s intangible assets—Human, Customer, Structural, Social, and Financial Capital—ensuring they build a business that's both irresistible to buyers and fulfilling to operate.

Speakers

Jill Simonds

Founder & CEO of Savvy Strategic Partners, Savvy Strategic Partners

Jill is Founder & CEO of Savvy Strategic Partners – a full-service C-Suite team for hire: executing vision, increasing business value, and helping founder owners realize freedom. Our experienced collective of executive leaders across operations, revenue, and finance execute your... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Stage 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Builder Track

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2:00pm MDT

The Built-In Business Benefits of Social Justice SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT

Sand Lily

In a world that increasingly values social responsibility, businesses that actively embrace social justice initiatives not only contribute to meaningful change but also unlock a myriad of for their organizations. This fireside chat will delve into how prioritizing social justice can lead to innovation, enhanced community connections, and sustained growth. As entrepreneurs, nonprofits, startups, and creatives adapt to shifting societal norms, understanding the intersection of social justice and business can be a powerful tool for future-proofing their organizations.

Objectives:

Define Social Justice in a Business Context: Explain what social justice means for businesses and why it is crucial for modern enterprises.

Highlight the Business Case for Social Justice: Showcase tangible examples and data illustrating how social justice initiatives can drive innovation, improve employee morale, and enhance customer loyalty.

Encourage Connection and Collaboration: Foster a mindset among participants that values collaboration with communities and stakeholders to create a more equitable business landscape.

Provide Actionable Steps: Offer participants practical strategies for integrating social justice principles into their business models.

Speakers

Dr. Laura Borland

Founder of Dad-Ease, Dad Advocate, and Doctor of Social Work, Founder

Dr. Laura Borland, DSW, is a fatherhood advocate and founder of Dad-Ease, an ecosystem of solutions designed to promote parental parity. With a deep commitment to addressing the challenges faced by dads, she strives to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all parents... Read More →

Alana White

Architect and advocate, W.K. Kellogg Foundation

Alana G. White is a program officer for the W.K. Kellogg Foundation in Battle Creek, Michigan. In this role, she works in the foundation’s priority place of Michigan to support thriving children, working families and equitable communities. White is responsible for identifying... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Sand Lily 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Creative Track

Subject People, Strategy, Growth, Leadership, Communication Skills, NonProfit, DEI, Mental Health, Creativity
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2:00pm MDT

Mental Wellness Through Change and Uncertainty SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT

Twinberry Auditorium

Change in life and business creates moments of excitement combined with the fear of the unknown. Navigating change and uncertainty can impact your mental health.

Each of us has mental health, just as we have physical health, and during times of change and uncertainty, even change and uncertainty in business, we need additional tools to deal with the extra mental stress.

When you are mentally healthy, you enjoy life and the people in it. This is when you can be creative, learn, try new things, and take risks. Ultimately, you are better able to cope with uncertainty, change, and transition when you are intentional about your mental wellness.

Here’s what you'll learn in this interactive session:
-When to increase individual resourcing for mental wellness, even before you may be struggling
-How to identify when mental health is declining and you need extra support
-Strategies to improve individual mental wellness and resilience, and when to ask for help

Speakers

Chrysta Bairre

Mental Health Speaker and Author, Live Love Work

Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Twinberry Auditorium 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Mental Health Track

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2:00pm MDT

Align by Design: Neurodivergent Productivity SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT

Prairie Sage 1

Giving our attention to what matters most can be a challenge when 1) everything matters all the time, 2) the arrival rate overwhelms us, and 3) our energy fluctuates.

In this tech-focused talk you'll discover the key elements for your personal productivity stack and how to make them work FOR you rather than be a distracting black hole. We'll drill down to look at Email and Clickup as examples.

Speakers

Karen Joy Fritz

Purposetivity Mentor, Karen Joy Fritz

Karen Joy Fritz, friendly neighborhood geek for creative entrepreneurs who want to get important shit done, finds the best tech and practices for your unique cognitive style. When it comes to business simplification, Karen is your go-to guide in both the inner and outer adventures... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Prairie Sage 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Solopreneur/Freelancer Track

Subject Technology, Client Delivery, Sales
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2:45pm MDT

Dr. Nereida Perdigón is the founder and owner of EmpowerU Now Consulting, a company dedicated to providing comprehensive support in the areas of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), mental health, and personal coaching. With over 16 years of experience in higher education as a... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm MDT
Foxtail 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Mental Health Track

3:15pm MDT

Grant Writing for Solopreneurs and Freelancers SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm MDT

Lupine

Calling all solopreneurs and freelancers! Are you ready to take your projects and business to the next level with grant funding? Join us for an interactive, hands-on session, "Grant Writing for Solopreneurs and Freelancers: Securing Funding for Projects and Businesses."

In just 45 minutes, you'll learn how to uncover funding opportunities, craft proposals that stand out, and navigate the challenges of grant writing with confidence. Whether you're new to grant writing or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will guide you through the process with practical tips, real-world examples, and engaging activities.

Speakers

Kay Emerson

Founder, SheRen Consulting

Kay Emerson, MS, brings over 15 years of expertise in public administration, focusing on improving health equity, education, and economic mobility, particularly for marginalized communities. With a strong background in program development, grant management, financial oversight, and... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm MDT
Lupine 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Solopreneur/Freelancer Track

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4:15pm MDT

Be a party-rockin' leader SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 4:15pm - 5:00pm MDT

Prairie Sage 1

Eryc Eyl - author of Stop Engaging Employees: Start Making Work More Human - presents an electrifying blend of music, leadership insights, and interactive fun that will transform your approach to teamwork and management.

Drawing unexpected parallels between DJing and leadership, Eryc delivers a high-energy, unforgettable experience that gets everyone on their feet - literally!

Through a mix of music, storytelling, and plenty of interaction, Eryc introduces three key leadership disciplines that, when applied like a master DJ reading a crowd, can help people at any level in the organization cultivate a workplace that's as engaging and harmonious as a perfectly curated playlist.

Participants will:
* Learn to "read the room" and respond to team needs
* Discover how to involve everyone in creating positive change
* Develop strategies for building shared understanding and purpose

Packed with practical tips, dance breaks, and "aha!" moments, this presentation will leave you energized, unified, and equipped with actionable leadership tools. It's not just a talk - it's a party with a purpose that will have you grooving to a new beat of collaboration and success, transforming traditional leadership into party-rockin' leadership.

Don't miss the chance to experience this unforgettable leadership dance party at Founded in FoCo, with Eryc Eyl as your guide and DJ. Get ready to rock the party - and the workplaces of Northern Colorado!

Speakers

Eryc Eyl

Party rocker, leadership activist, human being

A lifelong resident of northern Colorado, Eryc Eyl is a speaker, coach, and consultant with more than 30 years of experience in making work more human for conglomerates, telecommunications, consumer packaged goods, nonprofit, governmental, and research organizations. Eryc has an... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 4:15pm - 5:00pm MDT
Prairie Sage 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Thematic Keynote

Subject People, Leadership, Communication Skills, Mindset
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5:00pm MDT

Closing Social & Community Celebration SEATS AVAILABLE

Thursday March 13, 2025 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT

Resource Hub (Prairie 2 & 3)

Details to be announced.

Speakers

Founded in FoCo 2025 Event!

Nick Armstrong

Geek-in-Chief, WTF Marketing

I’m Nick Armstrong and I’m #2 on the speed dial of most small business owners, right after mom. When they’re stuck in a rut and need a whiteboard-worth of fun, profitable marketing strategies to fill up client waitlists and bank accounts for a year, they call me.

Artists

Saja Butler

Saja Butler is old Southern roots Music wrapped up in a crispy, sex'd up, Blackneck shell. Birthed down South and living in Colorado, her sound emits tones of sultry smoky seduction, airy breezy hope, and down right dirty sass. She's been playing Music since a kid and has honed... Read More →

Thursday March 13, 2025 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Resource Hub (Prairie 2 & 3) 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Featured, Evening Event

Founded in FoCo 2025

From $0.00