As it approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, Naturally Boulder, an organization dedicated to the economic growth of the natural and organic industry in the Rocky Mountain region, has announced a strategic rebranding. The group will now operate under the name Naturally Colorado, following a merger with Denver-based Colorado Food Works. This significant shift aims to extend support for the natural and organic product community across the entire state of Colorado.

Kristine Carey, the executive director of Naturally Colorado, emphasizes the shared mission between the two organizations. “Since 2005, Naturally Boulder has been the driving force behind the natural and organic movement across Colorado and the country. With the addition of Colorado Food Works, we’ll cultivate a statewide ecosystem to inspire and support the next generation of natural and organic brands, with the economic impact to match,” she states.

This merger and rebranding position Naturally Colorado as a key player in an industry that has seen phenomenal growth. Recent data reveals that the natural product industry, nationally, has tripled since 2007, growing from $97 billion to over $300 billion in 2023. Reflecting this success, Naturally Boulder has substantially contributed to the state’s economy, injecting more than $3.1 billion in 2019 alone.

A crucial part of Naturally Colorado’s strategy includes creating educational and networking events that provide mentorship to emerging brands. This model, initially implemented by Naturally Boulder, has inspired similar organizations across the United States through the Naturally Network. The relevance of this approach is evident in how the organization has facilitated the emergence of local brands like Justin’s, Bobo’s, and Cappello’s into household names.

“Boulder is where new companies challenge the system and bring new ideas and innovations to industry,” says Brandon Hernandez, Board Chair of Naturally Colorado. “Colorado is shining brightly with amazing, better-for-you businesses sprouting up. We can measure success not just by financial gain but also by conscious business practices that positively impact the state.”

Key objectives of Naturally Colorado’s expansion include:

1. Economic Impact: To replicate growth in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) food and beverage sector, driving development and job creation throughout Colorado.

2. Enhanced Resources: To offer additional networking events and education programs while fostering partnerships across the natural and organic sectors.

3. Connection and Collaboration: To create market-specific content tailored to different regions in Colorado, including areas like Denver, Fort Collins, Pueblo, and Grand Junction.

4. Diversity and Inclusion: To broaden the network to incorporate more BIPOC and women-owned businesses while establishing a statewide virtual job board.

5. Stronger Advocacy: To promote policies that enhance and protect the natural and organic industry and support sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

Naturally Colorado will retain popular events such as the annual Pitch Slam and Spring Fling, while also introducing new initiatives to cater to various regional and sector-specific needs. The integration will enhance collaboration with educational institutions, including the CSU Spur and Food Innovation Center in Denver, as well as major retailers like Lucky’s Market, Kroger, Natural Grocers, and Whole Foods.

Sari Kimbell, President of Colorado Food Works, expresses excitement about this collaboration: “We began in 2016 to replicate what Naturally Boulder was already accomplishing. Now, with a network of 200 entrepreneurs, it makes perfect sense to join forces.”

This merger represents more than just an organizational change. It embodies a commitment to fostering community support, innovation, and sustainable practices within the natural product sector in Colorado. As Naturally Colorado continues to grow, it aims to significantly influence not only local economies but also the broader narrative of health and wellness across the nation.

With this rebranding, Naturally Colorado will harness the power of collaboration within the natural and organic community, fortifying its mission to be a source of inspiration for future generations of entrepreneurs. The expansion into a unified statewide organization highlights an exciting chapter in the organic and natural food landscape.