The winner of Something Independent’s Snowsports Entrepreneur Award was revealed on October 4, at Battery 621 in Denver, CO. With this award, Something Independent looked to recognize those adventurous risk-takers who are putting it all on the line in pursuit of a dream. Entrants came from a diverse array of industries including custom ski manufacturers, filmmaking, meteorology, outdoor apparel, commercial furniture design, and software technology. Each applicant submitted a 90 second video explaining their idea, product or service, and how its business has been influenced by the Colorado snowsport culture. Something Independent is pleased to announce this year’s winner Flylow Gear, a Denver-based company who is poised to become a leader in the nation’s new entrepreneurial economy.

 

Longtime friends and Colorado natives Dan Abrams and Greg Steen partnered to create Flylow, which manufactures freeride apparel for the modern skier. In being selected, Flylow demonstrated how their commitment to innovation, high-performance, functionality and consumer engagement around the Flylow brand has led to early success. Also factoring into the judge’s selection was Flylow’s ability to leverage the Colorado brand in furthering their growth.

 

“We’re a Colorado company growing like crazy, and this award means a lot to get direct support from the snowsports and lifestyle communities. More than that, it’s nice to be recognized among our peers,” said Steen.

 

Launched on January 1, 2010, Something Independent is an initiative promoting Colorado’s entrepreneurial nature through dynamic, experience-driven programming showcasing new ideas, engaging entrepreneurs, fostering collaboration and capturing the Colorado lifestyle.

 

“Colorado has long been a magnet for the type of person who becomes an entrepreneur,” said Chuck Sullivan, co-founder of Something Independent. “It’s an appetite for adventure, a willingness to think big and take a little risk. This is the common-thread for so many success stories. Whether it’s in outdoor sports, craft-brewing or distilling, to new energy or technology, there is a culture of entrepreneurism here in Colorado.”

 

Governor Hickenlooper, who kicked off the event, said, “Part of being an entrepreneur is seeing opportunity where other people don’t. Nothing would make me happier then having Colorado known as the single greatest place for entrepreneurs.”

 

Other finalists included Folsom Custom Skis, Loki and CondorCam. The winner received $1,500 through funds made possible by the 'Art of Winter', plus a Marketing/PR 101 package from Sprocket Communications.

 

The selection committee included:

-Alexander Price Policy Advisor on Economic Development, Office of Governor John Hickenlooper

-Annelise Loevlie Global Marketing Director, co-owner; Icelantic Skis

-Bart Taylor Publisher, ColoradoBiz Magazine

-Doug Schnitzpahn Editor in Chief, Elevation Outdoors Magazine

-Jean White Colorado State Senator, District 8

-Joe Vostrejs COO, Larimer Associates

-Johnny Klein Co-Founder, Something Independent

-Lisa Osman Partner, Dorsey & Whitney

-Melanie Mills CEO, Colorado Ski Country USA

-Steve Sander, Director, Strategic Marketing & Partnerships, City of Denver