COS Rising 2025 -The History of Entrepreneurship in Colorado Springs

Join us for an engaging talk with historian John Harner as we dive into the entrepreneurial roots of Colorado Springs. From the city’s founding and the story of the railroad to the influence of visionaries like Nikola Tesla and the Penrose family, this session will explore how innovation, business, and technology have shaped Colorado Springs over the decades.

This event isn’t just about history—it’s about understanding how the city’s entrepreneurial spirit continues to inspire today’s founders, builders, and business leaders.

📍 Downtown UCCS Campus

Agenda

• 15 min | Networking & Coffee
• 45 min | Presentation by John Harner
• 15 min | Q&A
• 15 min | Closing Networking

Coffee and light snacks will be provided. Seating is classroom-style to welcome as many guests as possible.

COS Rising 2025

This event is part of COS Rising 2025, a 3-day celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and community in Colorado Springs. Designed for founders, startups, and tech-driven thinkers, the event features interactive workshops, networking opportunities, and unique experiences that highlight both the challenges and triumphs of building something new.

From tackling real-world problems and sprinting through rapid app development, to embracing lessons learned from failure and exploring the city’s entrepreneurial roots, COS Rising brings together the people and ideas shaping the future.

A collaboration between Catalyst Campus for Technology and Innovation, El Pomar Institute for Innovation and Commercialization (EPIIC), and Exponential Impact, this event unites organizations dedicated to celebrating innovation and strengthening the startup community.

Host or Publisher COS Rising 2025