Project RUN Fuels Workforce Growth in Southwest Colorado

Alliance program, Project RUN, invests $1.25 million to strengthen Southwest Colorado’s workforce and build lasting regional workforce infrastructure.

The La Plata Economic Development Alliance (Alliance) has released its latest Project RUN Impact Report, highlighting three years of employer-driven workforce development across Southwest Colorado. Launched through a $1.25 million Opportunity Now grant, Project RUN has grown into a permanent Alliance program that develops practical training alongside local employers to address the region’s workforce needs.

Over three years, Project RUN delivered 10 micro-credential trainings, awarded 216 industry-recognized certificates, and engaged 185 distinct participants from across Southwest Colorado, exceeding its original enrollment goals by 23%. Participants represented a wide range of industries and educational backgrounds, with nearly one-third reporting a raise or promotion after completing a training.

Project RUN’s impact extends beyond the classroom. Nearly two-thirds of the program’s $1.25 million investment remained in Southwest Colorado, supporting Fort Lewis College, local instructors, curriculum developers, and participant services. Those investments strengthened the region’s workforce infrastructure while creating lasting partnerships that will continue to support businesses and workers long after the original grant.

The report shares the full story behind Project RUN’s impact, including participant outcomes, employer partnerships, lessons learned, and the framework guiding future workforce development across Southwest Colorado. Read the full Impact Report to explore how employer-driven training is creating lasting economic opportunity throughout the region.

To learn more about upcoming Project RUN trainings, visit yeslpc.com/project-run