JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo., November 2025 – The Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation (Jeffco EDC) has proudly announced the winners of the 2025 Gateways Awards, celebrating the people, projects, and partnerships shaping Jefferson County’s economic vitality and community impact.
Hosted at Social Capitol Events Center in Arvada and presented by Host Sponsor JE Dunn Construction, The Gateways brought together more than 300 business, civic, and community leaders for an evening honoring innovation, leadership, and collaboration.
“The Gateways shine a light on the partnerships that fuel economic vitality in Jefferson County,” said Carrie Kelly, President & CEO of Jeffco EDC. “These winners are proving that progress isn’t achieved alone; it’s built through shared vision, creative problem-solving, and a deep commitment to community.”
2025 Gateways Award Winners
Project of the Year – Presented by Martin/Martin Consulting Engineers
Clayworks
Entrepreneur of the Year
Freedom Trax
Community Partner of the Year – Presented by Comcast
Red Rocks Community College
Making Good Happen Impact Award – Presented by Colorado Gives Foundation
Terumo BCT
Sustainability Project of the Year
Austere Environmental
Policy Champion – Presented by JE Dunn Construction
Bud Starker
Jeffco Leadership Award
Retired Chief Don Lombardi, West Metro Fire Protection District
Tony Giarratano, Chair of the Jeffco EDC Board of Directors and President of Commercial Lending Operations at FirstBank, said the evening showcased the best of what the county has to offer. “The Gateways are about celebrating the people and organizations who elevate Jefferson County,” Giarratano said. “This year’s winners represent the best of our community.”
Kelly added that this year’s event marked not just a celebration of success, but a launchpad for what’s next at Jeffco EDC. “We’re moving forward with long-range strategic planning, deeper regional collaboration, and new initiatives designed to elevate how we serve our partners and communities in the region,” she said. “Our focus is on telling Jeffco’s story - expanding our reach, enhancing our visibility, and ensuring that every business and community in Jefferson County has the opportunity to thrive.”
The Gateways Awards continue to grow as one of the region’s premier celebrations of collaboration, innovation, and leadership – unifying the efforts of Jeffco EDC, the West Metro Chamber, and Leadership Jeffco to strengthen the county’s economic and community vitality.
Interviews with the 2025 Gateways finalists and winners are available HERE.
Photos from the evening can be found HERE.