What does it take to build a game-changing product? For QuikrStuff, the answer includes innovation, resilience, and a commitment to crafting high-quality products from their home base in Grand Junction, Colorado. 

QuikrStuff produces the quickest, modular, no-tools bike rack on the market. Committed–from the beginning–to being a Made-in-the-USA company, its home base is in Grand Junction, Colorado, where innovative, high-quality products are designed, manufactured, and assembled. 

Grand Junction was the obvious choice for QuikrStuff. When CEO Bryan Wachs launched the company in early 2020, Grand Junction was his home and outdoor rec playground. The city has been committed for a long time to promoting outdoor recreation opportunities and supporting companies devoted to this space. Bryan was fortunate to partner with manufacturing expert JT Westcott, who had a well-established machine and fabrication business in Grand Junction. The company has steadily grown and recently moved into a new space where all its operations are under the same roof.  

However, there have been plenty of challenges along the way. Just two months into the journey, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, and Bryan feared it might be the end of QuikrStuff before it even had a chance to start. After surviving the initial shock and shutdowns, there was a year of supply chain issues. Bryan turned to the Grand Junction Economic Partnership for help, where he learned of a series of Advanced Industries Grants. 

A Partnership that Made a Difference

“When COVID hit, I thought that was the end of that; no more QuikrStuff; we’re done before we even get started. Enter the Grand Junction Economic Partnership. In their quest to support local businesses and diversify the economic base of Western Colorado, they suggested we apply for an OEDIT grant from the state,” shared Bryan Wachs. 

With GJEP’s support and guidance, QuikrStuff secured a crucial OEDIT Advanced Industries Grant, allowing the company to purchase two CNC machines that significantly boosted its production capabilities. This was the first step in a series of grants that allowed QuikrStuff to expand its capacity.

“A succession of three OEDIT grants over the past three years–totaling $350,00 and resulting in the machines we need and a larger factory in which to house them–is one of the main reasons QuikrStuff is alive and thriving today. Needless to say, I am extremely grateful for the support and knowledge of GJEP,” said Wachs. 

The Grand Junction Economic Partnership played a pivotal role in connecting QuikrStuff with the resources needed to thrive during challenging times. QuikrStuff has been able to expand its manufacturing capabilities and strengthen its commitment to keeping production in Grand Junction, contributing to the local economy, and creating opportunities for the community. 

A Bright Future in Grand Junction 

As QuikrStuff continues to grow and innovate from its home base in Grand Junction, GJEP is proud to partner with them on their journey. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient economy in Western Colorado that celebrates entrepreneurship, innovation, and the spirit of adventure. 

Beyond offering abundant outdoor recreation opportunities and a balanced quality of life, the Grand Junction area is home to a mix of innovative companies, like QuikrStuff, and a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem available to support and uplift growing businesses. Additionally, the region is home to one of the nation’s fastest-growing universities, Colorado Mesa University and CMU Tech, offering a strong talent pipeline that employers can access.

Whether companies need assistance identifying and applying for eligible programs, like OEDIT’s Advanced Industries Program, access to skilled workers and internships, or support in finding the right property, GJEP is available to help. To learn more about the resources available and no-cost business development services through the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, please contact us today!