Grand Junction, Colorado (October 1, 2024)

The Grand Junction Economic Partnership (GJEP) has been recognized by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) during the 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Awards at the bronze level for the organization’s annual report.  

“Grand Junction Economic Partnership is setting the standard of excellence for economic development through its Annual Report. This award highlights their commitment to their community and demonstrates the transformative impact of economic development”, said Nathan Ohle, IEDC Present and CEO. “It is with great pride that IEDC presents this award to Grand Junction Economic Partnership, celebrating their leadership and innovation in the field of economic development.” 

The organization’s 2023 annual report details the Grand Junction Economic Partnership’s economic impact, total number of jobs created and projected, and capital expenditure resulting from their efforts to facilitate business relocations and expansions into Mesa County. The full report includes an economic snapshot of the region including top employers, case studies detailing business success stories in partnership with GJEP, and the organization’s presence through marketing initiatives and attendance at industry tradeshows.  

Every year, IEDC looks specifically for economic development organizations, government entities, initiatives, and programs that have demonstrated consistent, exemplary performance in the economic development profession, leading the execution of projects that have a signification impact on revitalizing communities, and playing a major role in shaping and improving the practice of economic development.  

“Our latest annual report brings together the culmination of hard work and dedication displayed by our team,” said Curtis Englehart, Executive Director of GJEP. “From working closely with businesses and economic development partners to developing and distributing this comprehensive report, every aspect of our efforts reflects our commitment to fostering economic growth in Mesa County. We are honored to receive this recognition from IEDC, which underscores the impact of our initiatives.” 

Since 1984, the Grand Junction Economic Partnership has supported economic development within Mesa County, including the City of Grand Junction, City of Fruita, and the Town of Palisade. The organization’s mission is to enhance the region’s economic vitality, creating a strong and diverse economy and an improved quality of life through the attraction, expansion, and retention of primary business. GJEP works closely with economic development partners, including local and state governments, Chambers of Commerce, Mesa County Workforce Center, Business Incubator Center, and Colorado Mesa University.  

The non-profit organization provides comprehensive business services to companies seeking to relocate or expand in Mesa County, facilitating the creation of new primary jobs. These services include identifying available incentives and programs, site selection support, workforce development connections, and providing access to key stakeholders, removing business barriers, and actively promoting Mesa County’s business assets.  

As detailed in the report, 2023 was the best year on record for the organization with GJEP supporting 10 business relocations or expansions into the region, engaging in 16 local assists, and providing ongoing support to several businesses. The impact of the economic impact of these efforts amounted to: 

• 161 new primary jobs created in 2023 

• Average annual wage = $61,085 

• 403 new primary jobs projected due to efforts in 2023 

• $18,782,300 in employment impact 

• $33,487,778 in capital expenditure impact 

• TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACT = $52,270,078 

The Grand Junction Economic Partnership is proud to celebrate 40 years of economic development success and this international recognition through the International Economic Development Council. As the non-profit organization celebrates its 40th Anniversary of supporting economic development in
Mesa County, GJEP kicks off a fundraising campaign aimed at strengthening its ability to continue fostering business growth and community development. The funds raised will help the organization expand its services, enhance marketing efforts, and pursue new opportunities that further benefit the region.

To view the award-winning annual report and participate in GJEP’s 40th anniversary fundraiser, please visit www.gjep.org/annual-report.