The stars aligned this year at the annual Space Symposium, and the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) was at the center of the orbit. As leaders gathered from around the world to discuss the future of space exploration, our team was connecting with companies to discuss Douglas County’s economic interests and to solidify our position as a premier place to do business. We took full advantage of this gathering of global aerospace officials to advocate for our local ecosystem. Our primary focus remained on retention and expansion, ensuring that the aerospace companies currently calling Douglas County home have the infrastructure and resources they need to scale. If you walked through Colorado Hall, you couldn't miss the Douglas County EDC booth! Our presence this year was designed to be a "home base" for our existing partners and a beacon for innovators looking to relocate to our community. Highlights from the booth included: Networking Hub: We hosted dozens of informal "drop-ins" from industry stakeholders, providing a space to discuss the unique tax incentives and world-class infrastructure Douglas County offers. Showcasing Talent: We utilized our space to highlight the success stories of local aerospace anchors and the work of the Red Tape Reduction Task Force, proving that our ecosystem supports everything from satellite manufacturing to ground station operations. Community Engagement: It was a pleasure to connect with constituents and fellow Coloradans, sharing our vision for a future where Douglas County remains the best place in the country to do business. A major highlight of the Symposium was the palpable momentum surrounding Project Hera, a massive aerospace expansion that the Douglas County EDC played a decisive role in securing. Our team was instrumental in architecting the local incentive structures and site-specific advocacy required to outcompete other states for this landmark project. This win is a direct result of our proactive efforts to keep Douglas County at the forefront of the global aerospace economy. Project Hera represents more than just growth; it represents our commitment to high-paying jobs and cutting-edge innovation. One takeaway from this annual gathering was that the aerospace industry is moving at an unprecedented velocity, and Douglas County EDC is providing the resources necessary to keep existing aerospace companies in the state and promote/ relocate national and international companies here as well. Our time in Colorado Springs was more than just a series of meetings; it was a powerful validation of this strategic vision. From the high-stakes negotiations surrounding Project Hera to the collaborative energy at our booth in Colorado Hall, we’ve demonstrated that our county offers the perfect atmospheric conditions for business growth: low regulatory friction, high-tier talent, and a community that champions innovation. We return home with new partnerships, a strengthened pipeline of prospective companies, and a renewed commitment to our local anchors. The connections made this week will fuel our economic development efforts for years to come, ensuring that when the next giant leap for mankind is taken, it will have been designed, built, or supported right here in Douglas County. The mission continues!
Douglas County’s Red Tape Reduction Task Force officially began work to improve speed to market and cut unnecessary hurdles. (April 2, 2026) If you keep up on state business news, you've seen the headlines. Major companies like Palantir are moving out of Colorado, and statewide, there is a sense that it's getting harder to do business in this state. Not in Douglas County, where a new Red Tape Reduction Task Force is focused on increasing speed to market. Douglas County, in partnership with the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation, convened the first meeting of the Red Tape Reduction Task Force on April 2, marking a significant step toward positioning the County as one of the fastest, most business-ready communities in the nation. The Task Force was established following a December 2025 resolution by the Board of Douglas County Commissioners calling for the cutting of red tape and reduction of regulatory burden for commercial and industrial development. The initiative reflects a proactive response to growing concerns that regulatory complexity and lengthy development timelines are impacting Colorado's economic competitiveness. "Douglas County is committed to setting a new standard," said Douglas County Commissioner Kevin Van Winkle. "We can maintain high expectations for safety and quality while also delivering a faster, more predictable path for businesses to invest and grow." "Our goal for business permitting in Douglas County is to be not only the most competitive place to do business in Colorado, but the leader in the nation," said Douglas County EDC CEO Ellie Reynolds. The Red Tape Reduction Task Force will evaluate the County's existing regulatory framework, identify inefficiencies, and recommend practical, solution-oriented strategies to streamline processes. The group will focus on eliminating duplication, improving clarity, and reducing delays that can increase costs and stall projects. Comprised of leaders from development, construction, utilities, public safety, and economic development, the Task Force brings together a diverse range of expertise. To learn more about the Red Tape Reduction Task Force please visit: Douglas County's Red Tape Reduction Task Force - Douglas County
We are beyond thrilled to officially welcome Sodern America, a global leader in satellite defense and communications technology, into Douglas County! Announced on February 2, 2026, by Governor Jared Polis and the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), this expansion marks a significant milestone for our local economy and solidifies Douglas County’s reputation as a top destination for international aerospace innovation. Sodern America, a subsidiary of the France-based ArianeGroup, conducted a competitive multi-state search that considered sites in Alabama, California, and Texas before choosing Colorado. Ultimately, the company selected Englewood in Douglas County for its first ever U.S. expansion. A Thriving Ecosystem: Colorado is home to over 2,000 aerospace companies. Sodern America joins a prestigious neighborhood that includes industry titans like Lockheed Martin and Blue Origin. Unrivaled Talent: With more than 27,000 aerospace workers already in Douglas County, our region offers the highly skilled workforce necessary for advanced optronic manufacturing. Strategic Collaboration: This win was the result of a year-long effort involving the DCEDC, Metro Denver EDC, Denver South, and the Colorado Space Coalition. “This partnership positions us as a leader in the aerospace industry, showcasing our strategic location, high quality of life, and talented workforce. This investment will create new jobs in advanced manufacturing and drive innovation that will enhance our community’s future.” — Ellie Reynolds, President and CEO of Douglas County EDC. Innovation Heading to Englewood Sodern is world-renowned for its high-precision optronic equipment. Their new 14,000-square-foot facility in Englewood will feature a state-of-the-art clean room for the assembly, integration, and testing of: Star Trackers: Essential navigation instruments that allow satellites to determine their orientation by "mapping" the stars. Space Cameras: High-performance imaging systems used for everything from national security to deep-space exploration missions. Economic Impact: High-Quality Jobs This expansion isn't just about technology, it’s about the people. Sodern America is expected to create approximately 20 new, high-paying jobs in our community. These roles will span several critical sectors: Engineering (Aerospace and Optical) Production and Quality Control Supply Chain Management Business Development Supporting Growth To support this transition, the Colorado Economic Development Commission approved performance-based tax credits, and Douglas County has provided local incentives to ensure Sodern America has the tools it needs to scale. As Sodern America CEO Tiphaine Louradour noted, being local allows the company to respond with "greater flexibility to our customers’ needs." We are proud to provide the foundation for that agility and look forward to seeing Sodern's technology reach new heights. Welcome to the neighborhood, Sodern America!
In a shifting economic climate where Colorado faces an increasingly complex regulatory environment, the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) is committed to ensuring our region remains a premier destination for investment. As the state navigates a growing volume of legislative mandates, ranging from expanded employment requirements to rigorous new industry standards, the burden of compliance continues to weigh heavily on the cost of doing business. By collaborating on the Southern Colorado Business Alliance (SCBA), we are championing a shift toward regulatory stability and reform. This collaboration unites regional economic leaders, including the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC, the Pueblo County EDC, the Greater Pueblo Chamber, and the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance, to create a more predictable and streamlined environment for businesses to flourish. A Strategic Framework for Future Growth The SCBA utilizes a sophisticated organizational structure to move beyond reactive measures and toward long-term strategic influence. By leveraging specific institutional tools, we can ensure the region remains competitive for decades to come. Political Action Committee (PAC): The SCBA PAC serves as a talent pipeline for the future. It focuses on identifying and supporting forward-thinking leaders who prioritize economic stability and understand the technical needs of Southern Colorado’s diverse industries. Independent Expenditure Committee (IEC): The Southern Colorado Action committee allows for large-scale, data-driven advocacy. It provides a platform for individual businesses to champion regional initiatives and infrastructure projects that are too large for any single entity to tackle alone. As we prioritize these efforts, the focus remains on the tangible benefits for our local economy. Ellie Reynolds, President & CEO of the Douglas County EDC, highlights the direct impact of this strategic alignment: "As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, our commitment to reducing unnecessary red tape will help make Douglas County a destination of choice for companies looking to grow and innovate. By removing barriers and accelerating timelines, we strengthen our economic foundation and ensure that new opportunities and high-quality jobs come to our community." The Southern Colorado Business Alliance represents a historic merger of the region’s most influential leaders, creating a single powerhouse to reshape our economic landscape. Overall, we are shifting to be a more unified front that is better equipped to help shape the state's political landscape. Together, we are taking control of our region's direction to make sure our business community has exactly what it needs to succeed and thrive. Please visit the SCBA Website for additional information at www.socobusinessalliance.com
In an era where speed matters to businesses making site decisions and bringing jobs to communities, Douglas County, Colorado is taking bold steps to streamline government processes and reduce bureaucratic delays that slow economic growth. At the center of this effort is the Red Tape Reduction Commission, a new initiative spearheaded by Ellie Reynolds, President & CEO of the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation (EDC). What Is the Red Tape Reduction Commission? Announced in late 2025, the Red Tape Reduction Commission is a collaborative effort designed to analyze and reform permitting and approval processes that can delay business launches and expansions. The commission will bring together industry leaders, county officials, and partners to pinpoint bottlenecks in the current system and recommend actionable solutions to get companies open for business faster. This initiative aligns with broader county goals of accelerating “speed to market,” identifying “shovel-ready” sites, and removing “burdensome and duplicative regulations.” It reflects a concerted effort to make Douglas County one of the most business-friendly places not only in Colorado, but nationally. Leadership and Vision: Ellie Reynolds At the helm of the commission is Ellie Reynolds, whose leadership has been central to shaping economic policy in Douglas County. Reynolds emphasizes the importance of reducing red tape not just as a slogan, but as a strategic tool to drive competitiveness and growth. “Our goal for business permitting in Douglas County, for 2026, really is to be not only the most competitive place to do business in Colorado, but the leader in the nation.” — Ellie Reynolds, Douglas County EDC CEO Reynolds has repeatedly framed the reduction of bureaucratic delays as vital to giving businesses what they most value — reliable, predictable, and swift access to market. According to her comments to local media, the commission will “figure out what slows the process down” and work with private partners to resolve these issues collaboratively. The Douglas County EDC’s own business-focused outreach also reinforces this priority. In a November 2025 blog post, Reynolds reiterated her commitment to cutting unnecessary red tape as a cornerstone of the county’s economic strategy — one that will make Douglas County “a destination of choice for companies looking to grow and innovate.” Support from Douglas County’s Leadership The Red Tape Reduction Commission has strong backing from County leadership. During the December 2025 State of the County event — where the commission was highlighted, all three Douglas County Commissioners publicly reaffirmed their priority of supporting local business growth: Commissioner Kevin Van Winkle highlighted how eliminating unnecessary barriers helps businesses “begin growing their business — and contributing to our local economy — without delay.” Commissioner Abe Laydon spoke to streamlining processes while maintaining public safety and quality standards. Commissioner George Teal emphasized speed to market as a competitive advantage for the county. This unified public-sector commitment signals strong alignment between the EDC’s goals and county government. It also enhances confidence among local and prospective businesses that Douglas County is proactively working to lower administrative hurdles that typically slow development and job creation. Why It Matters to Businesses The conversation around red tape isn’t theoretical — site selectors and commercial developers increasingly cite permitting timelines as a key factor in location decisions. According to Reynolds, competitive permitting times — often measured in weeks in other regions — are now among the most influential factors businesses consider when choosing where to locate. By forming a commission focused on practical solutions, Douglas County aims to: Enhance its attractiveness for new investors and primary employers Strengthen long-term economic resilience Create and retain high-quality jobs Improve predictability for business planning This focus on process reform complements other economic initiatives in the county, including incentive programs and partnerships designed to drive broader economic development. Voices from the Business Community While direct quotes from private business leaders specifically about the Red Tape Reduction Commission are limited in press coverage so far, business community sentiment aligns with the initiative’s goals. Industry experts regularly emphasize that predictability and efficiency in government permitting are among the leading factors for successful site selection — reinforcing the commission’s strategic relevance. Douglas County’s business-focused events and collaborations, including site selector conferences and partnerships at the state and regional level, further underline this shared priority across public and private sectors. Looking Ahead As the Red Tape Reduction Commission begins its work in 2026, Douglas County positions itself at the forefront of pro-growth policy and pragmatic reform. With committed leadership and community support, the initiative represents more than red tape cuts — it’s a model of collaboration between government and business designed to respond to the real needs of today’s economy. For businesses looking for a community that understands the importance of efficiency, competitiveness, and responsiveness, Douglas County’s approach may set a new standard.
On Friday, January 9, 2026, the Douglas County Business Alliance (DCBA) brought together business leaders, local stakeholders, and State legislators for its annual Legislative Kick-Off at Sky Ridge Medical Center. This event marks the official start of engagement as the 2026 Colorado legislative session gets underway and highlights the priorities of Douglas County’s business community. A Strong Legislative Panel The event featured a bipartisan panel of lawmakers who represent Douglas County at the State Capitol (Left to Right): • Senator Mark Baisley • Representative Anthony Hartsook • Senator Lisa Frizell • Representative Max Brooks • Representative Bob Marshall • Senator John Carson Panelists offered insight into emerging policy discussions, infrastructure needs, economic competitiveness, and the legislative priorities likely to shape business environments for local employers and investors this year. Highlights of the Discussion Lawmakers and attendees discussed several key topics, including: • Transportation and infrastructure investment • Workforce development and education • Regulatory streamlining and permitting reform • Creating a competitive climate for business attraction and growth Panel members emphasized the value of ongoing dialogue between local leaders and legislators to ensure Douglas County’s interests are well-represented in the 2026 legislative session. Focus on Red Tape Reduction A central theme of both the Kick-Off and broader county economic strategy is cutting unnecessary “red tape”—the barriers and delays that slow business permitting, approvals, and market entry. In late 2025, Douglas County leaders announced the creation of a Red Tape Reduction Commission to work collaboratively with industry experts and local partners to identify and remove obstacles that impede business growth and speed to market. This initiative reflects a shared goal of making Douglas County not just the most competitive place to do business in Colorado, but a leader nationally in efficiency and responsiveness. A Word from Ellie Reynolds Ellie Reynolds, President & CEO of DCEDC and 2026 Chair of DCBA, reinforced the importance of this work: “As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, our commitment to reducing unnecessary red tape will help make Douglas County a destination of choice for companies looking to grow and innovate. By removing barriers and accelerating timelines, we strengthen our economic foundation and ensure that new opportunities and high-quality jobs come to our community”. Her leadership highlights the role of streamlined processes in creating a more agile, competitive regional economy. What’s Next for Douglas County. The DCBA Legislative Kick-Off serves as a catalyst for productive engagement between the business community and policymakers. DCEDC is proud to partner with DCBA and local legislators to champion: • Policy solutions that support existing businesses and attract new ones • Infrastructure investments that enhance connectivity and quality of life • Efficient government processes that align with the needs of job creators Together, these efforts will help position Douglas County for responsible growth and long-term success in 2026 and beyond.
Douglas County Day – Metro Denver Site Selection Conference On October 8, 2025, Douglas County took center stage at the Metro Denver Site Selection Conference with a day full of strategic engagement, industry-connecting and site-selection promotion. From a high-profile luncheon to a behind-the-scenes tour of aerospace giant, Lockheed Martin. The day underscored the county’s commitment to attracting business growth, strengthening its aerospace ecosystem and showcasing its unique value proposition. Douglas County Day at Liberty Media The day began at the Liberty Campus in Centennial where the Douglas County - Economic Development Corporation hosted an exclusive luncheon for site selectors and business leaders. The Liberty Campus served as the perfect venue to highlight Douglas County’s readiness for high-tech and innovation tenants. The luncheon created a collaborative atmosphere, allowing for networking and conversation among industry, government, and community leaders. Following lunch, a moderated panel featured executives from prominent companies discussing the drivers of site-location decisions and the role of regional ecosystems. Key takeaways from the panel included the importance of workforce strategy, collaboration between companies, and quality of life factors in site selection decisions. Panelists highlighted that Douglas County’s strength lies in its ecosystem — a community of interconnected companies, infrastructure, and workforce. A big thank you to our expert panelists for their invaluable insights: • Romy Ricafort, Vice President, Sales Engineering, Comcast • Brent Swift, Vice President, Advanced Capabilities, Northrop Grumman • Nicholas Garvin, CEO, Mobile TV Group • Michael Wilson, Executive Vice President of Operations & CFO, Astro Digital • Stacey DeFore, Principal, Stakeholder Engagement & Government Relations, Lockheed Martin Special thanks to our Douglas County Commissioners Abe Laydon, George Teal and Kevin Van Winkle for attending along with Sheriff Darren Weekly. We concluded the afternoon with an exclusive, eye-opening tour of the Lockheed Martin Ignite Lab! It was a powerful demonstration of how public-private partnerships translate into real-world innovation and success. We're proud to be a hub for such collaborative excellence Why Douglas County Is Playing to Win Douglas County’s strategic advantages include its strong aerospace base, top-ranked schools, high quality of life, and proactive approach to economic development. The county’s central message during Site Selection Week was clear: Douglas County is more than just a location — it’s a destination for innovation, collaboration, and growth.
This October, Douglas County took center stage during the Metro Denver Site Selection Week — hosting targeted industry conversations, an invite-only Douglas County Day, an exclusive luncheon at Liberty Campus, a Lockheed Martin facility tour, and participating in the Site Selector Feedback Dinner where national site selection consultants and corporate advisors shared candid insights about Denver’s competitiveness. The week reinforced Douglas County’s strengths in aerospace, talent, quality of life and public safety — and gave local leaders direct access to the people who influence corporate location decisions. What Leaders Said Ellie Reynolds, President & CEO of the Douglas County EDC, highlighted Douglas County’s appeal for aerospace employers and workforce: “Colorado and Douglas County are a destination for the aerospace workforce. We know that companies choose to locate and expand in places where their employees choose to live,” she told The Denver Gazette, noting local strengths like top schools, parks/open space and public safety. The Douglas County Board of Commissioners publicly thanked the EDC for its role in planning and executing Douglas County’s participation in Site Selection Week — signaling county leadership’s support for the region’s business attraction efforts. Meanwhile, national site selectors and industry advisors at the feedback dinner delivered a mix of praise and constructive critique — affirming Denver’s attractiveness while flagging issues that matter to corporate decision-makers (infrastructure readiness, workforce match, site availability and permitting predictability). Those takeaways were elevated in post-event reporting and the feedback dinner conversation. Douglas County Day: events & takeaway moments Douglas County Day was built around relationship-building and high-touch, local storytelling: Invite-only luncheon at Liberty Campus (Centennial): an opportunity to showcase county assets directly to site selectors. The EDC’s curation let attendees hear from local economic development leadership and key employers. Industry panel & Lockheed Martin tour: Douglas County-led panels emphasized collaboration across aerospace companies and workforce retention strategies; Lockheed representatives noted their focus on employment retention in the region — a theme that underlined local commitment to keeping and growing aerospace jobs. These touchpoints — an intimate luncheon plus a facility tour — provided exactly the kind of hands-on experience site selectors value when vetting metro areas for future projects. Site Selector Feedback Dinner: candid input for action The Site Selector Feedback Dinner remains one of the most valuable events during Site Selection Week because it creates a confidential space for national consultants to speak plainly about decision criteria. Attendees at the Denver dinner heard: Affirmations that counties like Douglas County rank highly for lifestyle, talent and industry clustering. Power and utility readiness, site and land availability, and streamlining permitting and incentive conversations are the practical, early-stage requirements to be considered. Douglas County leaders — from the EDC to county commissioners and private sector partners — left with prioritized feedback they can turn into near-term action items. Why this matters for Douglas County Site Selection Week isn’t just a conference — it’s a marketing and intelligence operation. By hosting Douglas County Day, convening panels, facilitating site tours and engaging at the Feedback Dinner, Douglas County: Put local assets directly in front of the people who advise corporations on where to invest. Reinforced the county’s aerospace narrative with on-the-ground examples (employers, workforce and quality-of-life factors). Collected unvarnished input from site selectors that will help sharpen the county’s pitch, address chokepoints (infrastructure, site readiness), and better align incentives and timelines to what consultants want to see.
Last week, Douglas County EDC had the honor of joining more than 130 Colorado business and civic leaders in Dublin, Ireland, as part of the 2025 Denver Leadership Exchange (LEX). This high-level delegation, organized annually by the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation, brings together leaders from across the state to learn, collaborate, and bring back global best practices to our communities. Our time in Dublin was both inspiring and energizing. We were welcomed by Senator Mark Daly, toured Ireland’s Parliament, and met with leaders at the National College of Ireland and Dublin Town Hall. From sessions on innovation and finance to conversations about the future of work and learning, the agenda was packed with insights directly relevant to the opportunities we’re working on back home in Douglas County. One of the highlights of the trip was hosting the official Community Dinner on behalf of Douglas County. This gathering gave us the chance to showcase our community to state leadership while deepening connections with global partners. The conversations reinforced that Douglas County’s strengths — from aerospace to advanced industries to a culture of collaboration — resonate far beyond Colorado. What stood out most is that the challenges and opportunities we face in Douglas County — workforce, infrastructure, innovation, and sustainability — are shared globally. Seeing how Dublin has addressed these issues gave us new ideas and fresh energy to continue building a stronger, more resilient local economy. We’re proud to have represented Douglas County on this international stage and look forward to bringing these insights home to benefit our community.
