Weld Startup Ecosystem

4.7•40 ratings

Greeley, CO, US

335 members · Public group

What we’re about

Our Mission: Striving for entrepreneurial purpose with unlimited potential.

Welcome to the Weld Startup Ecosystem, a vibrant community initiative committed to energizing the entrepreneurial landscape across our region! This group is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment where innovators, business leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs can come together to share knowledge, build connections, and create impactful change.

Our meetups are designed to spark new ideas, inspire action, and provide valuable resources for both emerging and established entrepreneurs. With each session, we bring in local and regional thought leaders, provide educational workshops, and facilitate meaningful networking opportunities that bridge the gap between concept and commercialization. Whether you're looking to validate a new business idea, seeking mentorship, or interested in supporting others in their entrepreneurial journey, this group serves as a launchpad for transforming ideas into reality.

The goal of this meetup is more than just networking—it’s about galvanizing our community to become a thriving hub of innovation and economic vitality. By connecting talent and resources, we aim to accelerate business growth, increase local investment, and position Weld County as a beacon of entrepreneurial excellence in Northern Colorado.

Join us to be part of a movement that champions entrepreneurship, empowers business leaders, and builds a stronger, more innovative Weld County!

Featured event

Wed, Oct 22 · 4:00 PM MDT

Innovation Talks Fall 2025: The Future of Local Manufacturing

UNC Campus Commons, 1051 22nd St, Greeley, CO, US

Join us for the Fall 2025 edition of Innovation Talks, where we shine a spotlight on the future of local manufacturing in Northern Colorado. This year we’re debuting a new and improved format—featuring just one keynote, one panel, and more time dedicated to meaningful networking.
Keynote Speaker
Eric Fitzsimons – Founder & Technical Lead, CNE Creative Enterprises, LLC
Eric Fitzsimons has spent more than 22 years empowering startups and entrepreneurs to accelerate their market entry and achieve scalable growth. As founder of CNE Creative Enterprises, he leads a multidisciplinary team bringing innovative product and system designs to life, with several client companies achieving successful exits. Today, Eric is also a strategic partner of Capstone Commercial Partners, helping prepare investment opportunities for a global network of private family offices.
A proud UNC graduate, Eric’s unique background blends theater arts, computer science, and engineering with a commitment to lifelong learning. In his keynote, Eric will discuss the state of local manufacturing, how the ecosystem is evolving, what the future holds for the industry, and the impact these changes will have on the workforce in Northern Colorado.
Panel Discussion
Following the keynote, stay for an engaging panel of local business leaders working directly in our region’s manufacturing ecosystem. Moderated by our partners at The City of Greeley, panelists will share their perspectives on opportunities and challenges in local manufacturing, including current solutions driving their operations, barriers and constraints they’re working to overcome, as well as the impact of tariffs and strategies to mitigate risks.

Moderator: Derrek Jerred, Economic Development Manager, City of Greeley
Nick Gonzales, Operations Leader, Chevron
Maximilian Knight, Chief Executive Officer, Rooted Robotics
Eric Fitzsimons, Founder & Technical Lead, CNE Creative
Miranda Carbaugh, Chief Operations Officer / Director of Sales, Wiley Roots Brewing

#### Networking & Refreshments

We’re excited to welcome Wiley Roots Brewing as both a panelist and our beer sponsor! Expect great drinks, plenty of food, and expanded networking time to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and community partners. Our partners at gBETA will help kick off the networking session, setting the stage for valuable connections and conversations.

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👉 Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from experts, connect with peers, and dive into the future of local manufacturing in Northern Colorado.

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### 📅 Agenda – Innovation Talks Fall 2025: Local Manufacturing

4:00 PM – 4:10 PM | Networking Kickoff
Kick off the evening with food, drinks, and networking, supported by our partners at gBETA.
4:05 PM – 4:10 PM | Welcome Remarks
Opening and introductions.
4:10 PM – 4:35 PM | Keynote Presentation
Eric Fitzsimons – Founder & Technical Lead, CNE Creative Enterprises, LLC
The future of local manufacturing, ecosystem opportunities, and workforce impact.
4:35 PM – 5:05 PM | Panel Discussion
Moderated by the City of Greeley
Local business leaders share challenges, solutions, and strategies shaping our manufacturing ecosystem.
5:10 PM – 5:30 PM+ | Expanded Networking
Continue conversations, enjoy refreshments, and connect with speakers, panelists, and fellow attendees.