To the businesses, neighbors, clients, friends, and employee owners who voted us Best in Business
Thank You, Colorado Springs
At Bryan Construction, we don’t take that honor lightly. Being named Gold Winner for General Contractor in Colorado Springs is more than recognition; it’s a reflection of the trust you’ve placed in us and the work we’re proud to do for our community.
Built in Colorado Springs. Built for our Communities.
Founded by entrepreneur Scott Bryan, BCI began as a local vision rooted in craftsmanship, integrity, and service. What started here in Colorado Springs has grown into a company that builds across the state and beyond, but our foundation remains right here.
In 2019, leadership transitioned to Brian Burns, who brought a new energy and vision to our proven legacy. Then, in 2022, we became 100% employee-owned, reinforcing what we’ve always believed: when you own the mission, you build with purpose.
"It’s not about us. It’s about the People we serve."
At BCI, every project starts with listening. We don’t just build it, we become a part of our clients’ teams, aligning with their goals and helping them deliver impact. We communicate clearly. We adapt quickly. We build with integrity.
Our projects aren’t just job sites. They’re community centers, schools, secure facilities, senior homes, and innovation hubs. Each one is a contribution to the future of Colorado Springs.
Bryan Construction named BEST IN BUSINESS
Building What Matters for the People Who Matter.
The Hunter & Artspace
The Hunter offers luxury multifamily housing in vibrant downtown Colorado Springs. Artspace is a national initiative to provide affordable housing for working artists.
Independent Living at Myron Stratton
Affordable housing for our senior neighbors in a beloved historic setting.
Cyber Innovation at USAFA
The Madera Cyber Innovation Center, connecting defense, academia, and commercial partners.
Jenkins Middle School
Stabilizing and re-imagining learning environments for the next generation.
Mission-Critical Facilities
Partnering with trailblazers like Nooks, a veteran-led startup transforming access to secure infrastructure.
Our Promise to Colorado Springs
We are builders of community, partners in progress, and advocates for those we serve. As a team of employee-owners, we’re committed to delivering projects that uplift, inspire, and protect because every build is a building block for a better tomorrow.
Thank You, Colorado Springs, for trusting us. We’re just getting started.
Bryan Construction, Inc.
Built for our Communities. Built for Colorado Springs
Best in Business Winner:
FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER
Dirk R. Hobbs dhobbs@coloradomediagroup.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Lee Harper lharper@coloradomediagroup.com
SENIOR COPY EDITOR
Rhonda Van Pelt info@coloradomediagroup.com
PROOFREADER
Hulda Bocchino
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Francis J. Zankowski franz@coloradomediagroup.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Christopher Tombaugh ctombaugh@coloradomediagroup.com
DIGITAL DIRECTOR
Sean Cassady scassady@coloradomediagroup.com
SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Geraldine Villanueva gvillanueva@coloradomediagroup.com
SOCO Digest's Best in Business 2025 is published by and is the exclusive property of Colorado Media Group, LLC- A registered C-Corp in the state of Colorado.
All photographs in this publication were submitted by or are published courtesy of, the individual companies, unless otherwise noted.
Offices: 6385 Corporate Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Mail: P.O. Box 13395 Voyager Parkway
Ste 130 - PMB #746 | Colorado Springs, CO 80921 719-330-7448 | info@coloradomediagroup.com
Excellence in business is not accidental — it is built through vision, persistence and a relentless focus on delivering value to customers, employees and community. At its core, business excellence is about leadership that inspires trust, operations that model efficiency and cultures that reward innovation and integrity.
For years, the “Best in Business” celebration was a hallmark event of the Colorado Springs Business Journal. When Colorado Media Group acquired the CSBJ and folded it into the SoCo Business Digest, I made a commitment to not just preserve the tradition, but to elevate it.
This recognition program has always served as a mirror — reflecting to the community the organizations that set the bar, demonstrate resilience and push us all toward higher standards.
In 2026, we will take this vision even further. The Best in Business 2026 event will expand beyond Colorado Springs to honor outstanding companies and leaders throughout the entire southeast Colorado region. From El Paso and Pueblo to Douglas, Fremont, and the southern plains, we will shine a light on the businesses that embody excellence and contribute to the strength of our regional economy.
Celebrating business success is more than applause — it is a statement of what we value as a community. When we honor visionaries, builders, innovators and servant leaders, we remind ourselves that excellence is contagious. It fuels growth, attracts investment and sustains the prosperity of our region.
To all the winners and nominees: thank you for raising the bar. Your leadership affirms that business, done with purpose and excellence, truly is the backbone of a thriving community.
Dirk R. Hobbs, Founder & Executive Publisher, Colorado Media Group, Inc.
NORTH Magazine, The Business Digest/CSBJ and the SoCo Insider! (Formerly Indy)
FRIDAYS AT 3PM MST AM1460 / 101.1FM
Business talk radio with regional experts and leaders on-air host, Dirk Hobbs!
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CoHarbor Co-working is the beginning of a much larger vision of gathering neighbors, according to the company website. It’s described as a starting point for professionals who are looking for a better way to work and connect in their community.
CoHarbor offers top-tier office spaces in Colorado Springs, equipped with reliable highspeed internet and comfortable, modern furniture designed for productivity. Their well-appointed conference rooms provide the perfect space for team meetings and client collaborations. They offer flexible rental plans, including month-to-month or long-term options to fit your needs, for as little as $40 an hour.
A friendly, welcoming atmosphere encourages collaboration and professional growth so you don’t have to settle for the distractions and isolation of a home office.
At CoHarbor, you’ll find a focused workspace and a community that makes showing up each day something to look forward to. Whether you need quiet connection or a change of pace, CoHarbor is a place to do great work.
For more than 60 years, Bill’s Equipment & Supply has been helping customers in the Pikes Peak region succeed at their construction, remodeling and fix-up projects. The website says, “We’re passionate about helping you learn what your project requires and giving you the ‘tools’ you need to get it done!”
As a multi-generational, family-owned business, Bill’s Equipment stands out in the rental industry. Bill Lewis established the business through friendships, generosity and ingenuity.
With five locations in Southern Colorado, the company prides itself on core values that include: high-quality, well-maintained equipment; consistently exceptional customer experience; expert advice and knowledgeable equipment instruction; customer problem solving with personal attention; and commitment to customers’ success.
Timberline Landscaping offers a full range of services – landscape design, construction and maintenance. They offer services for outdoor lighting, holiday decor, snow removal and more, in addition to trail building, sanitation, lawn care, irrigation and tree care.
The company feels their advantage is the talent and caliber of their certified professionals who have the knowledge to deliver customized and intelligent landscape solutions. In addition, Timberline offers gardening services to keep landscapes looking beautiful year round.
Their website says, “Our team has been creating and maintaining award-winning landscapes since 1982. Whatever your little bit of heaven looks like, Timberline is here to help you create it. So relax and enjoy the great outdoors, you deserve it.”
Baker & King Security Services is veteran owned and operated. Let us show you why we have maintained 98.7% customer retention over the years.
We are a security guard service company in Colorado Springs offering the best in full-range private protection services. Founded in 2014 by veteran security professionals James Baker and Marcus King, we provide surveillance detection, route surveillance and mission planning for all protective operation missions.
Our officers have thousands of hours of realworld experience in security operations in every type of environment. This includes everything from event security to personal body guarding to warzone protection and tactical guidance. All of our officers are experts in the operation, qualification and maintenance of multiple weapons systems. We routinely conduct high-risk, protective operations during periods of rest or travel.
lockheedmartin.com 719-277-4000
Lockheed Martin was inspired over 100 years ago when Glenn Martin built a plane in a rented church in 1912, and Allan and Malcolm Lockheed started the Alco Hydro-Airplane Company, according to Lockheed Martin’s website. The company “solves complex challenges, advances scientific discovery, and delivers innovative solutions that help our customers keep people safe,” according to their website. With more than 116,000 employees worldwide, 375 facilities globally, and more than 20% of employees who are veterans, Lockheed Martin strives to “stay ahead of ready.”
Savvion HQ is proud to be recognized with the Gold Award in Best in Business — a reflection of the trust and support we’ve earned from the Colorado Springs community. Formerly known as HR Branches, we’ve expanded and rebranded to Savvion HQ, to better serve the needs of small businesses.
Our mission is simple: help entrepreneurs and small business owners make their passions more profitable. We do this by bringing HR, payroll, accounting and fractional CFO services together under one roof.
What sets us apart is our “headquarters” model — we’re not just advisors, we’re an extension of our clients’ teams. By blending hospitality, trust and expertise, we provide both the strategy and day-today support that small businesses need to thrive.
Our recent milestones include the official launch of Savvion HQ, the expansion of our payroll services and the growth of a talented team that shares our passion for empowering small businesses. We’re honored to continue building alongside the Pikes Peak region’s incredible business community.
coloradolawfirm.com
719-635-4200
Colorado Law Group, formerly Stinar, Zendejas, Burrell & Wilhelmi, is a Colorado Springs firm that offers civil litigation, employment law, real estate law, estate planning, family law, business planning, securities and bad faith insurance in Colorado Springs. The firm has nine practicing attorneys.
“We meet the clients’ needs based on where they’re at,” says founding partner and attorney John Stinar. “For example, if there is a non-legal solution to a problem, we will have them pursue the nonlegal solution before the legal solution.”
The firm also has a blog to consult on legal issues, including posts like “Ways to minimize your businesses’ and your personal liability.
Our attorneys have not only specialized technical and legal backgrounds, but also a breadth of experience and an understanding of the complexities that may be involved in legal matters.
OfficeScapes helps organizations from Fortune 500 companies to small businesses furnish and equip their office spaces to create the best environments for productivity. No stranger to CSBJ’s Best in Business awards, OfficeScapes strives to bring company culture to life through their designs.
“Over 26 years, we’ve assembled an amazing team,” says Peter Husak, owner and CEO. “They have a long tenure and unbelievable knowledge of the industry.”
And clients agree, with testimonials saying OfficeScapes does “a terrific job of listening,” while providing “access to so many manufacturers.”
OfficeScapes displays visions for what’s possible in a 42,000-square-foot building (with a showroom) at Nevada Avenue and Garden of the Gods Road.
“We have ten interior designers who do incredible designs to make workers more productive and much happier in their workspaces,” says Husak.
Jan-Pro delivers cleaning and disinfecting services using high-performance equipment and environmentally safe compounds. The Colorado Springs franchise is equipped to meet the needs of food service businesses, corporate offices, retail stores, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, banks and more.
Daily cleaning and maintenance routines help keep your establishment or office clean and presentable to customers. However, hard-to-reach areas often go overlooked even if you sweep and mop your floors daily. A highly rated commercial cleaning company such as JAN-PRO Cleaning & Disinfecting can solve this problem through routine deep-cleaning and disinfection. This is also the best way to meet and maintain regulatory requirements for health and cleanliness.
Bob Posch, co-owner of Jan-Pro’s Colorado Springs franchise, says that a motivated, diverse workforce has enabled the firm to grow to the largest commercial cleaner in the region. JanPro’s cleaners operate, not as employees, but as independent business owners.
In 1993, Two Men and a Truck’s Colorado Springs franchise launched with a single truck. It’s since expanded to a fleet of 34 vehicles. This local success story mirrors that of the parent company, which began as a home business in the 1980s, and now operates in over 400 locations in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Eric St. Pierre, co-owner of Two Men and a Truck’s Colorado Springs franchise, says the company’s longevity and growth stem from its customer service principles. “We try to teach and train what we call the ‘grandma rule,’” St. Pierre says. “And the grandma rule is to treat every customer the way you would want your grandma treated.” Two Men and a Truck’s employees “go above and beyond and make sure that, at the end of the move, the customer is happy,” St. Pierre adds.
GUARANTEE
ADD STAFF was founded locally in 1984 to provide the Pikes Peak region’s businesses and job seekers the highest caliber of service. It was originally founded as an administrative and accounting staffing service, offering temporary, temp-to-hire and direct hire staffing.
Based in Colorado Springs, ADD STAFF is an award-winning staffing company recognized as a leader in the industry. Clients partner with us for long-term solutions because we act as a seamless extension of their HR teams. By learning everything we can about each of our client companies, its culture, its mission and its unique strengths, our staffing managers match clients with high-quality candidates every time.
Our commitment to accurate and efficient placements, over 50,0000 employees so far, has helped our clients expand their businesses and helped talented people build their careers.
Berwick Electric is an employee-owned electrical contractor that was established in 1921 by J.D. Berwick. In 2021, Berwick Electric joined forces with Guarantee Electrical Company to create a full-service electrical design-build firm in Colorado Springs.
Guarantee Electrical, based in St. Louis, is owned by its employees and generates annual revenue of about $200 million. The company has locations in Aurora as well as the San Francisco area.
With an A+ rating from the BBB, Berwick employs between 100 and 200 people, depending on projects.
J. Douglas Berwick started the company in 1921 after he converted the lighting system in his family’s home from gas to electricity. His neighbors saw the results and soon hired the company to do the same conversion for their homes. During the early years, Berwick worked on the construction of Grace Episcopal Church, the original St. Francis Hospital, the First Bank Building and the Colorado Hall at The Broadmoor.
Named in honor of the historic dirt road that follows 30 miles of the former Florence and Cripple Creek Railroad, Phantom Canyon opened in 1993 in Downtown Colorado Springs.
The website says, “From our standpoint, if you’re going to name yourself after a special place like Phantom Canyon, you need a building just as special. Thus, the historic Cheyenne Building named after Cheyenne Mountain and Chief Two Moons of the Cheyenne Indian Tribe, a luminary whose stone visage watches over the front entrance.”
They describe searching high and low to find only the finest malted barley, quality hops and select ale and lager yeasts to go with pure, crisp Colorado water. The website also says, “Dedication would be an understatement when acknowledging the passion our brewers share with one another. They and their ideas are as bold as the very brews they craft. Through their fearless experimentation, we proudly introduce unique, interesting beers — unlike anything you’ll find at any other brewery. They continue honoring the spirit of the Phantom Canyon and Chief Two Moons by dedicating themselves to giving Colorado Springs the best beer, the best food and the best hospitality.
Southwest Airlines began service to San Antonio and Houston from Love Field in Dallas on June 18, 1971. Since then, Southwest has continued to changed the face of the airline industry.
In March 2021, the airline began service from Colorado Springs Airport, with 13 daily nonstop departures to five cities. Currently there are up to 17 departures to Baltimore, Cancun, Chicago Midway, Dallas Love Field, Denver, Houston Hobby, Las Vegas, Phoenix, San Antonio and San Diego.
The Southwest mission statement is to provide a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Employees will be provided the same concern, respect and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every Southwest Customer.
The airline believes that managing business travel shouldn't be complicated, so they make things easier with more ways to access low fares through GDS, Direct Connect/API or a free booking platform, SWABIZ®. They offer Rapid Rewards Business, a business loyalty program where companies can earn points from qualifying Southwest travel purchases and Rapid Rewards Business points can be used toward future business travel.
With four locations in Colorado Springs, Urban Egg operates from 7 am to 2 pm every day of the week. Urban Egg strives to offer America’s Best Breakfast, with the finest, locally sourced, honest ingredients. The best meats, cheeses, eggs and produce available are combined with innovative and flavorful presentations. Dedicated to the highest quality food and beverage items served with a sense of warmth, friendliness and pride. They promote a culture of putting people first while fostering a generous, caring and optimistic outlook to the communities they call home.
Restaurants specialize in catering with a fresh twist, from burritos to fancy pancakes and breakfast bowls also.
Locally owned and operated, owner Rocky Mountain Restaurant Group has been serving fresh flavors and local favorites since 2002 and continues to lead the way. The company is involved in the local community and committed to charitable organizations. RMRG has been recognized as Employer of the Year by ARC for our work with staff members with developmental disabilities, awarded the Gold Level sponsor award for contributions to the United Way and recognized for work with the Wounded Warrior Foundation and for assisting in the Foster Care community.
stablished in 2014, the Academy of Entrepreneurial Excellence empowers service-based entrepreneurial businesses with tools and skills to grow a business to achieve profits and success. Private and group coaching for entrepreneurs and small business owners give powerful focus on future goals. Business foundational pieces such as business plans, business strategies, leadership mindset and improving profits are central to any coaching program. The Academy also has a network platform of regular educational workshops, in-depth interviews, networking opportunities, mastermind strategy sessions and more to keep businesses focused and moving toward desired success at a budget-friendly price.
Virginia Phillips is an author, owner of The Academy of Entrepreneurial Excellence, part-owner of Molder Rubber and Plastics Corp, inspirational speaker, entrepreneurial coach, podcaster and survivor. She earned a master’s degree and as well as many additional professional certifications to help her create an original and powerful fivestep approach that creates transformational momentum. Her leadership and coaching expertise guide individuals to develop skills, build confidence and create opportunities for success.
The Pikes Peak Workforce Center (PPWFC) is honored to receive the 2025 Gold Award for Best in Business. As the region’s leader in workforce development, we connect people with opportunity—helping job seekers build meaningful careers while supporting businesses in finding the talent they need to thrive.
From career coaching, training, and hiring events to customized employer services and labor market insights, PPWFC provides resources that drive long-term success. What truly sets us apart is our people-first approach: meeting individuals where they are, breaking down barriers, and offering clear pathways to growth.
We also excel at our ability to convene employers, educators, and community partners, creating meaningful networks that strengthen the entire region. By continually seeking new ways to collaborate, PPWFC helps keep Colorado working while boosting the economic vitality of the Pikes Peak region.
Locally owned, MacKenzie’s Chop House celebrates the art of dining with impeccable service in a casual, yet elegant atmosphere. Located in the Historic Alamo Building on S. Tejon Street, MacKenzie’s has been Colorado Springs’ premier dining destination since 1997.
For lunch, dinner or a private party, freshness and quality fulfill the highest expectations with a friendly, yet upscale and contemporary style.
The Chop House is popular for business lunches, banquets and pre-theater dinners. Spacious dining rooms and a classy bar and lounge flanked by three private rooms make up the comfortable, intimate atmosphere. Beautifully appointed private rooms seat from 10 to 60 people.
Chef Chris Heise prepares unique dishes with fresh produce and meats currently in season and available to create amazing options for those with exquisite tastes.
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE
BUSINESS: From strategy to acquisition, we invest in our businesses and operators to achieve significant and sustainable growth for our investors.
REAL ESTATE: By renovating, developing and redefining how spaces are used, we drive value creation in previously underutilized and undervalued properties.
COMMUNITY: We are proud to invest in privatepublic partnerships and donate our time and resources to community organizations and local non-profits.
KEVIN O’NEIL , Founder & CEO
GOLD WINNER
PRIVATE SECTOR EMPLOYER
MARIGOLD CAFE & BAKERY
marigoldcoloradosprings.com 719-599-4776
When the Nehme Family purchased Marigold Cafe & Bakery in 2016, they made a commitment to keep the amazing atmosphere that has made the establishment a long-time favorite of visitors and locals alike. The family-owned restaurant and patisserie boasts an eclectic French-inspired menu with a sweet finish, courtesy of their in-house bakery.
“Everyone has bought into the family culture, as you could say, from front of house, back of house, dish and the bakers. They all show a lot of passion and want to ensure people feel appreciated and recognized every time they walk through the door,” says Gus Nehme, whose family owns Marigold Cafe & Bakery.
“We are so grateful for all the support,” he says. “We are biased when we say we have the best customers in the world, but we really mean it.”
Gray Line delivers exceptional service with professional chauffeurs and a modern fleet of black cars, SUVs, Sprinter vans, minibuses and motor coaches, and is the preferred transportation provider for The Broadmoor. Gray Line is a local, family-owned and -operated transportation business boasting a rich 50year history, with reliable black car, charter bus and executive transportation in Colorado Springs and Denver. The company offers airport shuttles, private tours, corporate travel and group transportation to The Broadmoor, Cheyenne Mountain Resort, Flying Horse, Hotel Polaris, Philmont Scout Ranch and beyond.
At Garden of the Gods Resort & Club, we believe that true renewal encompasses the mind, body and spirit. Our integrative approach combines conventional and alternative therapies to address our clients’ well-being. At Strata Med Spa and Salon, state-of-the-art amenities are designed for ultimate relaxation. Luxurious accommodations combined with beautiful views of the natural surroundings provide comfort and serenity.
Guests can enjoy steam rooms, Himalayan salt inhalation rooms, dry saunas and experiential showers, all crafted to enhance the wellness journey. Strata is the future of healthcare, where clients take the needed time to prioritize their health. True renewal encompasses the mind, body and spirit — Garden of the Gods Resort provides an integrative approach to well-being.
COLORADO SPRINGS CHAMBER & EDC BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
coloradospringschamberedc.com 719-471-8183
Business After Hours is your chance to mix, mingle, and grow your network with fellow Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC members and future members in a lively, laidback setting. give our members an opportunity to build relationships with the business community, fellow chamber members and beyond! Connect in a relaxed setting while making new contacts to grow your business.
The Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC works side-by-side with new, expanding, and relocating businesses. Navigating incentives or property searches to networking, our team leverages decades of economic development and business expertise to help you succeed.
ALearn
t the Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado, our mission is to advance marketplace trust by setting standards, accrediting ethical businesses, educating consumers and resolving complaints. Since 1980, we've guided consumers toward trustworthy brands and charities while empowering businesses to thrive with integrity. We champion inclusive practices through our Age-Friendly Business Certification, promoting accessible and welcoming environments to customers of all ages. We also elevate purposedriven businesses via BBB4Good, a verification program that distinguishes organizations that are balancing social or environmental impact with trust and transparency. Additionally, this year we presented the inaugural BLAZE AI Summit, a forward-thinking event designed to demystify AI and empower small businesses to ignite innovation, enhance operations and thrive in a digital economy. Recently, we launched the BBB Excellence in Business Award, evolved from our long-standing Excellence in Customer Service program, to celebrate businesses excelling in integrity, service and community impact. Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado has also emerged as a recognized leader in Small Business AI education, equipping local companies with the knowledge and tools to adopt transformative technologies with confidence.
From University Village Colorado to the Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center and UCCS’ William J. Hybl Sports Medicine and Performance Center, RTA Architects has designed many of the iconic buildings in Colorado Springs.
RTA Architects launched in 1975 to create and renovate structures, offering clients and communities functional, aesthetic and sustainability benefits. Its professional teams use a collaborative approach when designing interiors and buildings for clients. The firm also provides related services like site planning, master planning, feasibility studies and way-finding.
RTA works with clients in education, healthcare, commercial and retail development, tourism and community organizations. The firm’s professionals are proud to say “the majority of the work we do is with previous satisfied clients.”
In 1917, Olson Plumbing & Heating Co. opened as a one-man plumbing shop. Since then, the company has worked on some of the most distinct landmarks in the Pikes Peak region. Today, we are still family-owned and guided by the same simple rules – do excellent work at a fair price, provide prompt service day or night and stand behind every job.
Long synonymous with quality and dependability, Olson Plumbing & Heating has deep roots in Colorado. That means we’re not just service providers — we’re neighbors. Over the decades, we’ve built a reputation as one of the premier plumbers, known for our quick response and commitment to excellence.
Choosing Olson means partnering with a team that values your time and comfort, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience. Our comprehensive approach, from the initial contact to the final handshake, is designed to provide peace of mind and results that stand the test of time.
Founded in 1986, Rocky Mountain Group, or RMG, is “grounded in the values to always do the right thing and to treat each project as if it were our own,” according to its website. With over three decades of engineering, architecture and materials testing experience, RMG is 100% employee-owned. “We’re a straightforward, straight-shooting bunch of engineers, architects, geologists, technicians and professionals,” RMG’s website says, “with a keen sense of urgency to get your project done right.”
RMG’s projects include work on apartment complexes, Bison Wildlife Refuge and the selfcleaning restrooms in Bancroft Park in Old Colorado City.
My Cellar Wine Bar is proud to provide the bites and wine that keep this Best in Business party as unforgettable as the winners we’re celebrating.
9258 Forest Bluffs View
SILVER BRONZE
For over four decades, Bryan Construction has been a leading firm when it comes to first-class construction services. Scott Bryan founded the company with “performance excellence” as its mission.
With clients across Colorado, the United States and beyond, Bryan Construction now has four locations, hundreds of employees and a portfolio spanning the many sectors of the construction industry.
We are committed to delivering your project on schedule and within your budget, while providing superior customer service, uncompromising quality, and exceeding your expectations. Our dedication to Performance Excellence ensures that you can always expect the highest quality of service from us.
Our projects include the Olympic Training Center, apartment complexes, healthcare facilities, car dealerships, golf courses, hangars and runways and retail construction for Planet Fitness, King Soopers and more.
Springs Fabrication offers a wide range of services, including project management, design and engineering, material processing, machining, fabrication, blasting, painting, assembly and testing. The Colorado Springs facility is one of the largest purpose-built manufacturing facilities in the Rocky Mountain region. Its standout features for large complex projects include an assembly bay area with 55 feet under hook height, and a 450-foot fabrication bay — one of the largest in the region. Springs Fabrication’s work runs from the highly visible (like the eye-catching Epicenter Sculpture at Weidner Field and the Julie Penrose Fountain in America the Beautiful Park) to the highly technical (vacuum furnace vessels, flotation cells, tunnel liner and diverter system and NIST Very-SmallAngled-Neutron-Scattering Chamber). Custom fabrication is the hallmark of Springs Fabrication’s growth and success.
Founded in 1995, SKR + CO is a locally-owned CPA firm dedicated to helping Coloradans with all their accounting needs, with a team of over 125 employees.
With Sorren, we’ve come together to serve our clients through every stage, every idea, every challenge — no matter their size. We’ve expanded specialties while preserving your relationship with the professionals you know and trust.
Our team now offers a broader range of services, backed by deeper resources and specialized expertise across tax, assurance, advisory, accounting and private client services — all delivered with the personal attention that has defined our legacy firms for decades.
This growth means more expertise, more flexibility and even more ways to support your business. And through it all, we’re keeping what matters most: our commitment to our people, clients and communities.
Bank of Colorado has 46 locations across Colorado, tracing its roots to Great Depression-era Palmer, Nebraska, where brothers George and Tom Dinsdale (and some of their friends) opened what would become Pinnacle Bank in 1938, according to the Bank of Colorado’s website. Over the next eight decades, the bank grew under the leadership of the Dinsdale family to serve communities across eight states.
Still proudly owned and managed by the Dinsdale family, they operate 162 banks, with 46 locations in Colorado.
As we grow, one community at a time, we recognize that each has a unique culture and set of needs for us to adapt to. That’s why our decisions are made locally. Banking decisions, as well as how we support our communities beyond our branch walls, are decided by people who are a part of and have a vested interest in the community.
According to the company website: “We’re proud to be part of Pinnacle Bancorp. While our bank may have grown out of our hometown – our core values have remained a mainstay at every location. We face the future with confidence knowing we have a firm foundation.”
Founded in 1922 by a group of military officers, USAA is among the leading providers of insurance, banking and retirement solutions, and serves 14 million members of the U.S. military, veterans who have honorably served and their families. Headquartered in San Antonio, USAA has offices in eight U.S. cities and three overseas locations and employs more than 38,000 people worldwide. Each year, the company contributes to national and local nonprofits in support of military families and communities where employees live and work. For more information about USAA, follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X (@USAA), or visit usaa.com.
Juan C. Andrade became USAA’s president and chief executive officer, effective April 2. Andrade has served on USAA’s Board of Directors for the last four years and brings nearly 40 years of leadership experience as a public servant and in the financial services industry. This uniquely positions him to uphold and advance USAA’s 103-year legacy of service, ensuring the association remains strong for future generations of members.
Founded in 1957 on the former Ent Air Force Base in Colorado Springs, Ent Credit Union is Colorado’s largest credit union, serving more than 560,000 members with nearly $10 billion in assets and 60 service centers across the Front Range. As a not-for-profit, community-chartered credit union, Ent is committed to improving members’ financial quality of life through better rates, lower fees and exceptional products and services.
In April 2025, Ent announced a merger of equals with Minnesota-based Wings Credit Union, which will expand its reach to nearly a million members across six states, while maintaining its Colorado roots and community focus. Ent is proud to be the Official Banking Partner of the Denver Broncos, offering exclusive perks like Broncos Checking, ticket giveaways and fan experiences, while also supporting local nonprofits through joint initiatives.
This year alone, Ent plans to donate more than $3 million to Colorado nonprofits advancing issues such as education, youth development, food insecurity and housing attainability. Ent is an Equal Housing Opportunity and Equal Opportunity Lender, federally insured by the NCUA.
When Bob James founded Raymond James in 1962, he did so based on a belief that clients deserved more than help with investment decisions — they needed advice that considered their entire financial picture. Today, that client-focused approach has extended to serve client accounts through approximately 8,800 financial advisors in the United States, Canada and overseas. Further, the company has expanded through the years to serve corporations, institutions and municipalities through significant capital markets, banking and asset management services.Offering a wide variety of services, including investment banking and wealth management, Raymond James and Associates works with clients to craft personal, innovative and thoughtful financial strategies with an eye for long-term strategies.
Amulti-year Best in Business winner, Phil Long Dealerships began business in Colorado Springs in 1945. Phil Long’s lasting success goes back to its namesake owner, according to Kevin Shaughnessy, president and CEO. “We are a team of driven individuals committed to taking care of our employees, our customers and our communities through service, hard work and high integrity,” he says. “Our primary strengths are our culture and brand. Phil Long Dealerships was started by Phil Long himself, a WWII Naval Aviator and war hero.”
Phil Long employs a dedicated sales team with a no-pressure, high integrity approach. “We are so proud of our employees for making us known throughout Colorado and the nation as a respected brand that is not merely a good dealership, but an organization that is philanthropic at its heart,” Shaughnessy says.
| 719-635-0200
Picnic Basket Catering has been serving Colorado Springs and the Front Range since 1989. Cravings 5-Star Catering is designed to be custom, trendy and capable of fulfilling your wildest dreams. From interesting new tastes to presentations that impress, Cravings will provide your guests with a joyful culinary adventure. Custom cocktail menu, multiple courses, unique ideas for décor and entertainment, no event is too large, too small or too demanding for our team to plan, strategize and build your vision. We specialize in putting all the pieces together and creating the wow factor for your wedding, open house, gala or small dinner party.
UCHealth is a nationally recognized nonprofit health system that pushes the boundaries of medicine through advanced treatments and clinical trials, improving health through innovation and providing unmatched patient care in the Rocky Mountain West. Investing $1.3 billion in community benefits including $570 million in uncompensated care each year, UCHealth is Colorado’s largest Medicaid provider and dedicated to the communities it serves.
UCHealth includes 35,000 employees, 14 acutecare hospitals and hundreds of physicians across Colorado, Wyoming and western Nebraska. Those in the Pikes Peak region are: UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central, UCHealth Memorial Hospital North, UCHealth Grandview Hospital and UCHealth Pikes Peak Regional Hospital.
In 2022, Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer became the President & CEO of the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC, Southern Colorado’s largest chamber of commerce and economic development organization. Since then, she has led major initiatives in aerospace and defense, legislative advocacy and has successfully overseen the securing of 29 economic development projects, creating over 5,000 jobs and attracting more than $1.8 billion in capital investment.
With a distinguished background in leadership roles, including serving as president and CEO of the Regional Economic Development Initiative (REDI) Cincinnati, and holding leadership positions at Duke Energy, Citigroup, United Way of Greater Cincinnati in Ohio and Kentucky, the Obion County Chamber of Commerce and the Jackson Downtown Development Corporation in Tennessee.
PIKES PEAK OR BUST RODEO
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, or USOPC, is the unifying organization for the myriad associations governing the more than 40 sports showcased in the Summer and Winter Olympic Games. USOPC is focused on “protecting, supporting and empowering America’s athletes,” according to its website. It’s also focused on its mission to “empower Team USA athletes to achieve sustained competitive excellence and well-being.”
Founded in 1894, the USOPC moved its headquarters from New York City to Colorado Springs in 1978. In 2010, the headquarters moved to its present location in Downtown Colorado Springs, while the previous site off Union Boulevard remains a U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center.
The Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo has been a Colorado Springs tradition since 1937, showcasing the top rodeo talent and action, while providing wholesome entertainment for the Pikes Peak community to enjoy. Spencer Penrose, avid sportsman, entrepreneur and philanthropist, founded the Rodeo and it at the 10,000-seat Will Rogers Stadium across from The Broadmoor Hotel. The event moved indoors in 1973 for more than 30 years.
After purchasing and renovating the Norris Penrose Equestrian Center, the event moved outdoors again. Building improvements included an enclosed pavilion, continue to provide a place for the Colorado Springs community to gather. The legacy of the Rodeo in the Pikes Peak region was further recognized three decades ago when the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association located their National Headquarters and Hall of Fame to Colorado Springs. The Rodeo is Colorado Springs’ second oldest event — in a town that knows and values rodeo!
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s 146 picturesque acres are home to animals of every variety. Mirroring their natural habitats in the wild, the animals’ Zoo homes will transport you to wild places around the globe. With its distinctive mountainside setting at an elevation of 6,714, you’ll discover wild animals, engaging exhibits and irresistible attractions.
Experience a zoo like no other, on a mountainside overlooking Colorado Springs. Discover more than 30 species of endangered animals. Soar over your favorite animal exhibits and take in breathtaking views of the city below on the Mountaineer Sky Ride. Interact with our giraffes and don’t miss the chance to hand-feed them.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is committed to the preservation of the Earth and its wildlife. Beyond living green ourselves, our ongoing wildlife conservation projects and our Quarters for Conservation (Q4C) initiative, we are committed to spreading the word about how each and every one of us can make a difference in the health and sustainability of wildlife and wild places.
BUSINESS: The O’Neil Group invests in business with a focus on Strategic expansion and diversification, Vertical integration, and Partnering with in high-potential operators within an industry. From strategy to acquisition, we invest in our businesses and operators to achieve significant and sustainable growth for our investors.
REAL ESTATE: The O’Neil Group invests in properties with a focus on high-end renovations, development of unique environments, and redefinition of how properties are used. By renovating, developing and redefining how spaces are used, we drive value creation in previously underutilized and undervalued properties.
COMMUNITY: The O’Neil Group invests in the community with a focus on private-public partnership, donation of time and resources and staying involved until goals are achieved. We are proud to invest in private-public partnerships and donate our time and resources to community organizations and local non-profits.
Since opening in 2017, we have been on a mission to not only dress the modern human in stylish business and professional apparel, but also to make a positive impact on our community. We provide customers with expert guidance on sizing and selecting outfits that suit their personal style and specific occasion. Our talented in-house tailor helps revitalize donated gently-used clothing to make it the perfect fit. With our measurement card, customers always have access to their measurements, making it easier to consistently dress confidently.
In addition to our curated collection of donated clothing, we are thrilled to introduce brand new suits for any special occasion. Whether it’s a wedding, job interview or celebration, our new suit offerings provide a range of options to make every man feel confident and well-dressed on important days.
The Colorado
sbdc.colorado.gov/pikespeak 719-667-3803
Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is dedicated to helping existing and new businesses grow and prosper in the Pikes Peak region by providing free and confidential advising and no- or low-cost training programs. A team of business experts is ready to help you create and retain jobs, secure loans, increase sales, win government contracts, obtain certifications and more.
The Colorado SBDC combines information and resources from federal, state and local governments with those of the education system and private sector to meet the specialized and complex needs of the small business community. Advising experts work in partnership to provide entrepreneurs with crucial information that can mean the difference between success and failure. The Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, in a partnership between the State of Colorado, Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, the Small Business Administration (SBA), Colorado’s institutions of higher education, local economic development organizations and local chambers of commerce.
In June 2012, AdPro was founded as the inhouse advertising agency for the Phil Long Auto Group. There, we learned the importance of results-oriented marketing. In 2014, AdPro became its own LLC and today works with a wide variety of clients locally, regionally and nationally. AdPro has expertise in every marketing discipline and knows how to maximize each tool to create a complete marketing solution for our clients.
At AdPro, we still buy the old-fashioned way, one rate at a time. We sit face-to-face with your local media reps and negotiate every single rate, getting it at the lowest price we can and still have it run.
We also check every single commercial invoice to make sure the spot runs at the right rate, at the right time. It’s called post-analysis and very few media buyers buy this way anymore. We think it should be a given, and it’s the kind of service you can expect when you partner with AdPro.
As an arm of Comcast Corporation, Xfinity brand was chosen in 2010 to create a more modern and approachable identity for its residential products, differentiating it from the business services side of the company.
As the nation’s largest converged network, they combine the power of WiFi and wireless to deliver superior experiences for smartphone users, with more than 90% of Xfinity Mobile traffic traveling over WiFi.
AdPro is one of the largest advertisers in the state of Colorado. We are not only able to negotiate low rates, even in the premium time periods, we are also able to secure significant valueadded media weight, making your media presence even more dominant for a much lower financial investment.
In 2024 alone, Comcast Business powered millions of businesses worldwide, propelling their growth through fast, reliable connectivity, global secure networking, advanced cybersecurity solutions, communications services and a range of managed service options.
The same year, Comcast launched WiFi PowerBoost to enable wireless customers to automatically access speeds of up to 1 Gigabit per second when they connect to WiFi at home and at millions of Xfinity hotspots across the country.
Guerrilla Media is a professional video production company focused on helping businesses achieve their marketing goals through video production. We understand the struggles many organizations face when it comes to producing and releasing effective video productions. Whether you’re lacking the vision, expertise, equipment or talent, we’ve got you covered. Our highly skilled team is comprised of experienced and passionate video production experts who are personally invested in helping you reach your business objectives.
We offer a wide array of video production solutions because every company has unique goals and needs. With a broad repertoire, we’re in a better position to cater to your company’s specific requirements to get you the most effective results possible. We stand apart from the competition in the level of quality we offer while still keeping our prices attractively low. At Guerilla Media, we believe every company should have access to professionalgrade video production services.
Amnet is a Colorado Front Range-based managed service provider for IT that understands the real value of diligent attention to each and every one of our clients.
As your partner in making your IT a competitive advantage, we take the time to understand your organization and to listen to your concerns. Our goal is to establish a long-term, win-win relationship.
Our clients’ successes are our successes. By focusing on mastery of our craft and best-in-class service for our clients, we will prosper.
As we invest ourselves fully in everything we do for our clients and community, we continue to progress as a company, and as a team.
The staff at Amnet is small but dedicated. And they are dedicated to being the foremost IT support provider for Colorado businesses.
Wolf & Key was born over a decade ago, right here in Colorado Springs. Since our inception, one thing has mattered most: community. We think businesses should make their cities a better place, not just chase the dollar. To us that means non-profit board service, supporting community events and even a bit of local politics.
95% of our clients are here. All our team members are here. If we can work with organizations who feel the same way? We might just make southern Colorado an even better place than it already is (if that’s possible).
We work in the digital world every day, but our hearts are still analog. That means we treat our clients like partners, not transactions. Relationships, not acquaintances. You could hire any one of a zillion agencies to do some marketing for you. Why choose us? Well, we’ll put it this way: don’t choose us unless you’re a human seeking humans. That’s old school…the only way to go.
Neon Pig is a creative agency based in Colorado Springs. We specialize in branding, graphic design, web design and development, integrated advertising campaigns and other things on the creative spectrum.
We are communicators. We are artists. We are problem solvers and thinkers.
Some agencies strive to be everything to everybody. That’s not us. We know what we do well and we stick to it — creative, strategic communication. Do you want to look and sound good as an individual, organization, company or brand? Then we can probably help you.
Basically, we are a group of super dope, extremely good-looking, ultra-modest creative people who believe in building something completely unique. We strive to be a beacon (bacon?) of light in the night sky. Our vision is to create amazing brands, and we don’t think yours should sink back or blend in.
So heat up the burners and prepare for a little splatter because, with Neon Pig Creative, your brand will sizzle.
Lars Leber is a Salida-based photographer who specializes in landscapes, night photography and commercial work. He also offers photography workshops, lessons and portraits.
“I am always trying to come up with unique views of Colorado,” says Leber. “This can be a new perspective or interesting weather conditions. With photography workshops and Zoom lessons, I also help other people to get to the next level in their photography journeys.”
Leber maintains an up-to-date social media presence and keeps his business diverse.
Asked why he thinks he was nominated by readers, Leber says “I hope it is because people like my photographs or have enjoyed one of our numerous photography workshops.”
Lead. Influence. Dominate.
Minuteman Press designs and prints logos, serving as a marketing center for “the entire business community from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies,” according to their website.
“What we do is care about our clients. We care enough to deliver quality, speed and reliability” says Ramon Alvarez, owner of Minuteman Press of Colorado Springs. Alvarez says it’s part of Minuteman Press’ mission to “make sure that we deliver outstanding client experiences.”
“What sets us apart with promotional products is that we have a huge assortment,” says Alvarez, “and we will do the work for our clients in searching and providing options that have a fast election.”
Minuteman Press offers promotional products including pens, drink ware, glasses, bags, and other items to market businesses.
“When our client gives us their vision, we scour to find exactly what our customers are looking for,” says Alvarez. “Whether it’s towels or reusable bags, backpacks that are branded — we do all the work for them.”
StratusIQ is a locally owned and operated internet service provider. Since 2003, its mission has been to “build a better fiber network.”
Sebastian Nutter, director of sales and marketing at Stratus IQ, says, “We put customer service as our top priority, treating customers like they’re our neighbors because they are our neighbors.”
As a local internet service provider, Stratus IQ is “100% independent from other internet service providers,” according to their website. The company serves “multiple residential communities, K-12 education sites and commercial business parks.”
“Anytime we say we’re going to do something for a customer, we’re always going to follow through with that and take care of them every step of the way,” says Nutter.
Taa Dixon and Kevin Vicroy opened 720media in 2000. The team builds, designs and maintains websites, and aids search engine optimization, social media setup and maintenance, and email marketing.
“Answering our phone and being attentive to our clients sets us apart in our industry,” says Dixon, brand strategist of 720media. “When a new client finds us online and calls, we often hear that we were the first web firm to actually answer the phone. Being available is a critical part of what makes 720media the best choice.”
The company works with “small business owners, mid-sized companies, restaurants, the military and nonprofit agencies throughout the country,” according to their website.
Dixon thinks 720media was nominated for Best in Business because “we have an excellent reputation and a history of happy clients who refer us.”
Pasley Commercial Interiors is a woman-owned commercial interior design leader based in Colorado Springs, specializing in transforming business environments to drive client growth and long-term success. We work closely with business owners to ensure that every design decision supports their brand identity and future ambitions, recognizing that interiors are a strategic business tool — not just a visual enhancement.
We believe our narrative-driven, client-centric approach sets us apart. We begin each project with in-depth discovery meetings to understand your story, brand and vision. This ensures every designed space communicates the right message and supports your goals.
Our work spans medical, multi-family, and franchise spaces, and our projects are known for measurable impact. For example, our work with Pinnacle Advanced Primary Care transformed their office expansions into efficient patient-centered and welcoming spaces, directly supporting business growth and improving employee and client experience.
We are very thankful to be named a “Best in Business” winner, and we receive this honor as a testament to our expertise, dedication, and our mission: helping businesses thrive by unleashing the full potential of their public spaces.
Founded in 1985, Griffis Blessing is a commercial and multifamily property management company located in Colorado Springs. As a real estate services firm with over 40 years of experience, and more than 400 employees, we offer comprehensive real estate asset management services in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, the Western Slope and Denver, as well as Eastern Kansas, with a primary focus on multifamily property management and commercial property management, facilities maintenance and investment services.
We manage assets in excess of $2 billion — over 10,000 apartment units and more than 6.5 million square feet of office, retail, medical and industrial space.
Founded in 1994, Olive Real Estate has grown significantly since then and now has 16 seasoned and prominent commercial brokers. Consistently recognized as a top producer in the market by CoStar Group, Olive has become a well known and respected leader in the Southern Colorado commercial real estate market.
Our areas of specialization encompass a broad spectrum within the realm of commercial real estate, which includes marketing, leasing, acquisition and disposition services, asset management, pro forma analysis, financial structuring, construction services and development services. The seamless integration of these diverse disciplines within a singular organizational entity constitutes a fundamental driver of our achievements in the commercial real estate sector. We possess a deep understanding of the intrinsic value of real estate and are committed to aiding you in formulating the most judicious strategies and cost assessments for your endeavors. Our reservoir of experience, proficiency, enthusiasm and dedication, when directed towards your property, yields tangible results.
We know the Southern Colorado Commercial Real Estate market inside and out. We’ve experienced its highs and lows — successfully. Our Southern Colorado roots are deep and our experience is firsthand.
Classic Homes has built 15,000 homes in El Paso County since 1989. The locally owned business shares its philosophy on its website: “We’ve built our reputation based on a sincere and unwavering belief that we must always strive for quality, value, and customer satisfaction in the process of delivering a home to our buyers.”
We offer more than 50 floor plans to include ranch, two-story and three-story single-family plans, plus townhomes — all in prime neighborhood locations with excellent access to work, school, worship and essential services.
The company strives to build communities that are highly desirable and in locations where people want to live. And to build a product that is appealing to all lifestyles. There’s really something for everyone, regardless of what stage of life you’re in.
It’s about building a better world — for our clients, trade partners, team members and families— through hard work, honest business practices, and a commitment to sustained excellence.
2025 THE PROMENADE SHOPS AT BRIARGATE
thepromenadeshopsatbriargate.com 719-265-6264
The Promenade Shops at Briargate is an openair shopping center off Briargate Parkway and a quarter east of I-25. More than 100,000 vehicles pass through the area each day, according to its website.
The center focuses on the shopper experience, providing complimentary concerts, movies and experiences. The website notes the shopping center is pet friendly, with water bowls throughout the center during summer months, as well as petfriendly patios.
The Promenade Shops at Briargate also offers a VIP Club to give shoppers what they want, the way they want it. Get hot deals, the inside scoop and special promotions — all available through your exclusive profile.
12M CHILDREN ARE TRAFFICKED EVERY DAY IN 2025, INCLUDING RIGHT HERE IN COLORADO.
WHEN YOU PLAY WITH YOUR TEAM IN THE AMBASSADORS FOR HOPE CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT, YOU SEND THE EXODUS ROAD TO FREE THEM.
Join Colorado Springs-based global nonprofit, The Exodus Road, together with tournament host Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group and partner Colorado Media Group, on October 6, 2025, for the 3nd Annual Ambassadors for Hope Charity Golf Tournament.
Hosted at The Garden of the Gods Resort & Club, the charity tournament is a four-person team event with proceeds from player registration directly benefiting The Exodus Road’s work in bringing freedom to trafficked children and justice to perpetrators.
The Exodus Road operates in the U.S. as well as five other countries around the world and has celebrated its role in securing freedom for more than 2,600 trafficked men, women, and children. They’ve aided law enforcement in the arrest of more than 1,200 perpetrators of the crime.
MONDAY OCTOBER 6, 2025
Soon
Celebrating Southern Colorado’s Soaring Young Professionals Nominations open October
6.
The Southern Colorado Business Forum & Digest announces the Class of 2026 40 Under 40 celebration to honor the current leaders, movers, and shakers who get things done. This exclusive showcase will highlight 40 outstanding young professionals under the age of 40 who are making waves across industries, driving innovation, and shaping the future of our community. Join us on February 24, 2026 as we come together to celebrate southern Colorado’s finest!
