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The Exciting Launch of Innovate and Makerspace at Lamar Community College
Lamar Community College (LCC) and the Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) have officially unveiled a new initiative designed to invigorate the entrepreneurial spirit across Southeast Colorado: the Innovate and Makerspace. This collaborative effort, which strategically combines LCC's educational resources with the SBDC's entrepreneurial insights, aims to provide developing entrepreneurs and community innovators with transformative resources to produce market-ready products.
Soft Opening: Join the Celebration!
A soft opening event is scheduled for February 17, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Betz Technology Center on the LCC campus. This event is open to community members, students, and local business leaders, offering an opportunity for attendees to tour the facility, witness live equipment demonstrations, and engage with professionals dedicated to fostering innovation.
Empowering Creativity with State-of-the-Art Tools
The Innovate and Makerspace will officially welcome the public for bookings starting February 24, 2026, with daily passes priced reasonably at $15. Equipped with advanced fabrication tools, it will include:
- 3D Printing & Rapid Prototyping: Quickly convert digital designs into tangible models.
- Laser Cutting & Engraving: Achieve precise cuts for materials such as wood and acrylic.
- Professional Sewing & Textile Lab: Access to industrial machines for large-scale sewing projects.
Those who visit the space will not only be able to use these tools but also benefit from the guidance of certified volunteers who are there to help them realize their creative visions.
Fostering Collaboration and Entrepreneurship
According to Courtney Morris, Work-Based Learning Project Director, and Martha Alvarez, SBDC Associate Director, the goal is to create a hub for collaboration. They expressed excitement about the potential for the Innovate and Makerspace to serve as a breeding ground for creativity and innovation, thus bridging educational resources with practical applications in business.
The Bigger Picture: Relevance to Economic Growth
This innovative space comes at a time when small business growth is increasingly critical for local economies. Access to resources for production, such as the Innovate and Makerspace, is paramount for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to transition from ideas to actual products. This partnership represents a significant investment not just in the facility itself but in the potential of the community’s innovative capacity.
Future Opportunities for Small Business Development
The soft opening is just the beginning. The ongoing development will open a plethora of opportunities for local startups to connect with mentors and advisors through the SBDC’s mentorship programs. Not only will entrepreneurs gain valuable materials and skills, but they will also tap into a broader network of business support — critical for growing a successful enterprise.
How to Get Involved
If you’re interested in learning more about this exciting initiative, consider attending the soft launch event. It’s an excellent chance to explore how this space could align with your own entrepreneurial journeys or creative projects. For additional information about pricing, services, or how to get involved, contact Martha Alvarez at 970-351-3635 or via email at martha@eastcoloradosbdc.com.
The Innovate and Makerspace is not just a facility but a beacon of opportunity in the Southeast Colorado area. With the right support and resources, the sky is the limit!
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