Cheyenne LEADS

Cheyenne LEADS
Name	Cheyenne LEADS
Founded	1986
Location	Cheyenne, Wyoming
Key people	Randy Bruns (CEO)
Focus	Economic development
Website	https://www.cheyenneleads.org/

Cheyenne LEADS. It is a private, non-profit economic development organization serving Laramie County and the city of Cheyenne. Founded in the 1980s, its primary mission is to attract new businesses, retain and expand existing companies, and foster job creation within the region. The organization operates as a public-private partnership, working closely with local government, state agencies, and the private sector to drive strategic growth.

History and formation

The organization was established in 1986 by a coalition of local business leaders and civic officials concerned about the economic challenges facing the region following downturns in key sectors. Its creation was influenced by similar economic development corporations emerging across the United States during that period. Initial funding and support came from the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, the Laramie County Commission, and private investors who recognized the need for a dedicated entity to guide economic diversification. The early years focused on developing the Cheyenne Business Parkway and marketing the region's assets, such as its proximity to Interstate 80 and the Union Pacific Railroad.

Mission and objectives

The core mission is to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in Laramie County through targeted business development. Primary objectives include attracting capital investment from domestic and international companies, increasing high-wage employment opportunities, and expanding the local tax base. A strategic focus is placed on sectors where the region holds a competitive advantage, including advanced manufacturing, data centers, logistics, and aerospace. The organization also aims to support entrepreneurship and innovation by connecting startups with resources and venture capital.

Economic development initiatives

Key initiatives involve proactive business recruitment, comprehensive site selection services, and workforce development programs. The organization markets the region's speculative building inventory, including facilities at the North Range Business Park and the Cheyenne Logistics Hub. It administers revolving loan fund programs to assist local companies with expansion projects and collaborates with Laramie County Community College on tailored job training. Additional initiatives focus on promoting foreign-trade zone status and leveraging state incentives like the Wyoming Business Council grant programs.

Key projects and achievements

Notable projects include the recruitment of Microsoft, which established a major data center campus, and the expansion of Sierra Nevada Corporation's Space Systems division. The development of the Cheyenne Regional Airport business park attracted aerospace firms, while the Triple Crown Baseball tournament was secured to boost tourism. Achievements also encompass facilitating the growth of Vista Outdoor operations and supporting the Magpul Industries manufacturing facility. These projects have collectively brought billions in capital investment and thousands of jobs to Laramie County.

Organizational structure and funding

The organization is governed by a board of directors composed of executives from leading local businesses, banking, and civic institutions. Day-to-day operations are managed by a professional staff led by a CEO and supported by project managers and research analysts. Funding is derived from a combination of private membership investments, contractual contributions from the City of Cheyenne and Laramie County, and grants from the Wyoming Business Council. This public-private partnership model ensures alignment between public resources and private sector strategic goals.

Impact on Cheyenne and Laramie County

The impact has been significant, contributing to a more diversified and resilient regional economy less dependent on traditional sectors like mineral extraction. Major projects have increased property tax revenues, funding improvements to public infrastructure, schools, and community services. The focus on quality job creation has raised average household incomes and helped retain University of Wyoming graduates. Furthermore, the organization's efforts have enhanced the national profile of Cheyenne as a competitive location for technology and logistics industries, spurring additional private investment.

Category:Economic development organizations in the United States Category:Organizations based in Cheyenne, Wyoming Category:1986 establishments in Wyoming