Putting local, first!

Local First Foundation brings together 220+ local businesses and nonprofit organizations, as well as passionate community members we call Localists. Our vision is a thriving, equitable, and sustainable economy that values the triple bottom line: people, the planet, and prosperity for everyone across southwest Colorado.

The Local First Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit with a mission to build local self-reliance, sense of place, and well-being for the residents of La Plata County and southwest Colorado.

Anyone who has visited southwest Colorado can recognize that it’s a unique place. What makes it possible for so many people to thrive in our rural region is our strong community of local, independent businesses that attract tourists, provide jobs, and recirculate dollars into the local economy. Local First works hard to support our local independent business community so our region can flourish for years to come.