FORT COLLINS — On Friday evening, June 29, a host of friends of the Rocky Mountain Innosphere gathered to celebrate the innovative spirit that pervades this region.
It was a mellow gathering on a lovely summer night, including friendly conversation, good food and a performance by violin virtuoso Elizabeth Pitcairn.
But the event was also about raising capital for RMI and its incubator clients. Forms to make a donation to RMI were handed out, and a major announcement or two was made concerning corporate and foundation support.
FirstBank announced it would provide a $75,000 sponsorship over the next three years, joining First National Bank of Colorado, which pledged $150,000 over the same time period in late May.
In addition, it was announced that the Community Foundation of Northern Colorado is working with RMI to create the Fund for Innovation, an evergreen fund that aims to raise $1 million a year over the next five years.
RMI has declared increasing its access to capital – and diversifying its revenue stream – as its top priority for 2012. And RMI VP of Capital Access Doug Johnson is aggressively leading the way to meet that goal.
More announcements of revenue enhancement for RMI are expected soon, as the Fort Collins-based startup incubator rolls up its sleeves to help its client companies move their ideas into the marketplace and create good jobs for the local economy.
We have much to be proud of in Colorado when it comes to innovative creativity. But it takes money to transform these creative ideas into products and jobs.
First National Bank, FirstBank and the Community Foundation of Northern Colorado are to be commended for stepping forward to get the ball rolling on a stronger and more diversified revenue base for RMI.
We hope more will join that cause.
