Over the past few months, we’ve asked business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to share their perspectives through two surveys: one focused on redesigning Forward Cody’s membership program, and another on the broader needs of Cody’s business community.

Supporting Members Through Meaningful Benefits

When asked which benefits would make membership with Forward Cody most valuable, the answers were clear: local business leaders want real, practical value. Opportunities to network and build stronger connections through mastermind groups, workshops, and expert-led classes were the most common requests. Many emphasized the need for practical resources, such as business toolkits, research data along with hands-on support like funding assistance. At the core, members emphasized the need for more support for existing local businesses, not just new ventures. Many want Forward Cody to provide tangible value through funding opportunities and individualized assistance.

Where Cody Businesses Are Looking for Support

The second survey asked respondents to reflect on the stage of their business and the hurdles they face. Most described their businesses as established and stable, though many are looking to expand. Access to funding and capital stood out as one of the biggest needs, with business owners calling for more education around financing, forecasting, and scaling. Workforce challenges also surfaced as a critical issue, from hiring and training to long-term labor force development. Beyond people and capital, businesses highlighted regulatory hurdles from permitting and zoning to a lack of affordable commercial land as barriers to growth.

When asked about Cody’s future, business owners were clear about their priorities. Workforce development ranked highest, followed by a stronger focus on local entrepreneurship, business retention, and infrastructure. Interestingly, business recruitment (attracting companies from outside of the region) ranked lowest underscoring the belief that Cody’s future growth starts by strengthening the businesses already here.

Business Owner Perspectives on our Local Economy

Some of the most valuable insights came directly from local business owners. The comments we received brought these findings to life and reminded us that retention and expansion of existing businesses drive the majority of a community’s economic growth. Others expressed to the need for affordable commercial land, stronger childcare options to support workforce participation, and continued efforts to keep Cody competitive as a tourism destination.

Turning Insights into Action

The insights we received are guiding Forward Cody as we shape the future of our programs and membership model that will benefit local businesses. In the months ahead, we will be considering programs that emphasize:

  • Networking and mastermind opportunities to connect and collaborate with local businesses.
  • Business growth resources from toolkits to expert-led workshops.
  • Workforce development partnerships to help local employers recruit and retain talent.
  • Support for start-up & established businesses with funding and scaling strategies and entrepreneurship programs.
  • Transparent communication about how Forward Cody is supporting thoughtful economic growth.

Strengthening Our Local Economy

By aligning our efforts with the needs of local businesses, Forward Cody is committed to building an economy that reflects our community’s needs and values. Together, we will ensure that Cody remains a place where businesses thrive.