Investing in Our Region's Business Community


May 10, 2023

First Southwest Bank (FSWB) was proud to serve as title sponsor at the 11th Annual Southwest Colorado Small Business Conference, hosted by the Southwest Colorado Small Business Development Center, on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 at the Sky Ute Casino Event Center in Ignacio, CO.

Hundreds of business owners from across southwest Colorado and northwest New Mexico attended the day-long event, themed 'Learn, Evolve, Adapt, and Thrive!' Attendees heard from a diverse lineup of guest speakers and panelists who presented on a variety of topics such as human resources, pricing strategies, digital marketing, business leadership, employee engagement, funding, and more.

Sherry Waner, FSWB's Chief Development Officer, moderated a panel on Finding the Optimal Funding for Your Business, which also featured Jim Van Horn, Specialized Lender, and Azarel Madrigal, Executive Director of First Southwest Community Fund.

The Southwest Colorado Small Business Development Center offers confidential, objective services to help your business succeed no matter what stage a business is in. From start-ups to growth companies, their expert advisors and instructors have many years of experience in all business topics assisting businesses to gain the knowledge and tools needed to be successful in these competitive times. Learn more about the SWCO SBDC here.

FSWB is an SBA preferred lender, and was named SBA Community Rural Lender of the Year for 2021 and 2022. To learn more about FSWB’s small business loans, click here.