“Maybe I Can Do That Too”: The Ripple Effect of Elevar By Rick Sudekum

One of the most meaningful reflections shared following graduation came from Elevar Advisor Rick Sudekum, who, although unable to attend the ceremony in person, offered remarks that captured the spirit of the program and the significance of the moment.

“The name Elevar means ‘to lift up,’ and I cannot think of a better word for what this program represents,” Rick shared. “This is not simply about building businesses. It is about lifting up people, families, ideas, neighborhoods, and the future of this valley.”

Rick reflected on the courage it takes to become an entrepreneur — the willingness to move forward before everything is certain, to work long hours behind the scenes, and to continue building even when resources are limited. But he also emphasized something equally important: that no one builds anything meaningful alone.

“We need mentors who tell us the truth. We need peers who remind us that struggle is normal. We need customers who believe in us early. We need institutions that do more than open the door; they invite people in, listen, and help make the room bigger.”

That sense of belonging and collective support is at the heart of Elevar. Through mentorship, bilingual education, startup funding, and community connection, the program recognizes that talent and leadership have always existed within Eagle County’s Latino and underrepresented communities. What has often been missing are pathways, access, and opportunities intentionally designed to support that leadership.

“To the members of this cohort: your business is more than a service or a product,” Rick said. “It is a statement. It says: I belong in this economy. I have something valuable to offer. I can create opportunity not only for myself, but for others.”

As the evening celebrated new businesses and milestones, Rick encouraged graduates to continue reaching back as they move forward — mentoring others, opening doors, and sharing both the successes and challenges of entrepreneurship.

“The success of this cohort will not be measured only by revenue, or grants, or business milestones,” he shared. “It will be measured by the ripple effect: the people you employ, the families you strengthen, and the young people who see you and think, ‘Maybe I can do that too.’”

His words served as a powerful reminder that Elevar is about more than entrepreneurship. It is about building leadership, belonging, and long-term opportunity across Eagle County.