Fundamental Needs Inc

Fundamental Needs Entrepreneurship Program provides hands-on business education to high school students equipping them with problem-solving skills financial literacy and real-world experience in launching a business. The program is currently offered at Southwest Open School SWOS and served an average of 12 students per class in 2024. Students engage in market research branding business planning and public speaking culminating in a final pitch competition where they present their business ideas to local entrepreneurs community leaders and investors. The program has also led to partnerships with Fort Lewis College CU Boulder and local businesses expanding mentorship and networking opportunities for students interested in entrepreneurship and workforce development.

The Cortez Makerspace is an initiative designed to provide technical training workforce development and business support for entrepreneurs students and community members. While the full makerspace is awaiting funding and a permanent location Fundamental Needs has actively worked to develop partnerships programming and workforce development opportunities in preparation for its future launch. In 2024 Fundamental Needs hosted the "Start. Scale. Pitch!" three-part entrepreneurship workshop series? which introduced core business and financial skills critical to future makerspace programming. The series included: Unique Value Proposition April 2 2024: Helping participants identify community needs and develop business ideas with a sustainable advantage. Finance and Profitability April 9 2024: Covering financial literacy smart investments and negotiation strategies. Creating a Pitch Deck April 16 2024: Teaching participants how to build a compelling pitch deck and polish their presentation skills. Beyond these workshops Fundamental Needs has been developing workforce training programs for the makerspace which will include: Technical training in 3D printing CNC machining and laser cutting. Workshops on product development branding and small business operations. Collaborations with Fort Lewis College Pueblo Community College and local businesses to offer certifications and hands-on learning opportunities. While the full project is still in development these efforts have helped build momentum establish key partnerships and ensure that workforce training remains a priority for the makerspaces long-term success.