MeeT THe Spark Lab Alumni

Aspire to Inspire is a Grand Junction-based nonprofit dedicated to helping unemployed individuals find purpose and career opportunities through community-based work. Jizelle was awarded $650 in seed funding, with $450 supporting nonprofit leadership and grant writing courses and $200 covering a 12-month Squarespace subscription.

CareerMe from Ridgway, CO is a platform that helps companies efficiently recruit, hire, and train high school students for key internship roles. Homegrown Pathways awarded Neva $800 to fund UI/UX design courses and cover an all-expenses-paid trip to West Slope Startup Week, where she will expand her network as Startup Colorado’s Youth Ambassador.

Cerezo Jewels, based in Montrose, CO, creates elegant, handmade jewelry with dainty and refined designs, crafted from high-quality materials for everyday wear with a touch of sophistication. Cerezo Jewels was awarded $550 and received an additional $600 from the judging panel to cover a Shopify subscription, PO box, and initial product materials to further support the business launch.

Everyday Comfort is a locally owned and family-operated business in Montrose, CO, offering high-quality, custom-made everyday products like T-shirts, totes, mugs, and more, with a focus on unique designs and sustainable, community-driven production. Everyday Comfort received $650 to support business growth, including $200 for a new website with Squarespace training, $300 for new equipment, and $150 for paid advertising to expand its reach and revenue.

Homage Tea & Spice offers meticulously crafted teas and spice blends, with a long-term vision of opening a community tea house in Cedaredge, CO to bring people together and foster connection. Homage Tea & Spice received $550 to support bulk purchases and essential materials, allowing for product testing and sales at local farmers markets this summer.

Jackaroo is a business based out of Olathe, CO, with a passion for community and quality service, providing reliable landscaping and handyman services. Jackaroo received $1,200 for tools and equipment to support expansion across multiple locations with Olathe as its headquarters, along with a special Citizens State Bank Financial Consulting Package to support long-term business growth.

Mountain Valley Photography, based in Ridgway, CO, is dedicated to capturing heartfelt family portraits, making beautiful and meaningful photography accessible to everyone in the community. Homegrown Pathways awarded Mountain Valley Photography with $650 to support a new website, lighting equipment, marketing, and professional development opportunities.

Swxxtcreations, based in Olathe, CO, specializes in crafting custom-designed chocolate-covered strawberries and other unique desserts. Swxxtcreations received $800 in seed funding in addition to $600 awarded by the judging panel, allowing Monse to invest in essential tools, equipment, professional development, and marketing to expand her business. Place your order via Monse’s instagram: @swxxtcreations

Writer’s Bloc is a nonprofit creating a community where young writers can develop their skills, explore storytelling, and connect with peers through interactive workshops. Writer’s Bloc was awarded $650 to launch its pilot program this spring, supporting workshop preparations and student prizes to inspire and uplift young writers.

Young Music Entrepreneurs (YME) is a Hotchkiss-based non-profit organization that empowers rural teens with the skills and training needed for a career in music through hands-on composition workshops, peer feedback sessions, and a community showcase concert. In addition to the $800 awarded to YME, judges selected YME to receive an extra $600 to support its pilot program with materials, composition software, venue costs, and advertising, with the potential for additional support through a fiscal sponsorship with Homegrown Pathways.