Central Mountain Ascent

After five years of supporting 50 founders, the Ascent Accelerator is expanding in 2027 through an exciting new partnership between Chaffee County EDC and Startup Colorado.

Building on Ascent’s strong foundation in Chaffee County, this collaboration brings together local connections, experienced mentors, statewide resources, and comprehensive business development programming to help entrepreneurs turn ideas into successful businesses.

Whether you’re exploring a new idea or preparing an existing company for its next stage of growth, Ascent offers the resources, relationships, and support to help you move forward.

Applications for the 2027 cohort are now open through December 18, 2026.

Open to entrepreneurs in Chaffee, Summit, Lake, and Gunnison counties. Participation is FREE for selected founders.

Through our partnership with Startup Colorado, Ascent is expanding beyond a traditional accelerator to offer a more comprehensive approach to entrepreneurial development.

Startup Colorado’s Rural Operating System (RuralOS) connects entrepreneurs with resources and programming designed to support every stage of business development, including idea validation, business acceleration, technical assistance, mentorship, peer networks, pitch preparation, and capital readiness.

Startup Colorado will lead structured founder-development programming through its Idea Factory and Growth Challenge cohorts.

Chaffee County EDC will continue leading the community-driven events, mentorship opportunities, and local connections that have made Ascent a valuable regional resource.

Together, we’re creating more opportunities for rural entrepreneurs to launch, grow, and thrive.