Jeffco EDC honors 2025 Gateways Awards winners

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. — The Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation announced the winners of the 2025 Gateways Awards, recognizing people, projects and partnerships that strengthened the county’s economy and community over the past year.

More than 300 business, civic and community leaders attended the event at the Social Capitol Events Center in Arvada. The celebration was presented by host sponsor JE Dunn Construction.

“The Gateways shine a light on the partnerships that fuel economic vitality in Jefferson County,” said Carrie Kelly, president and CEO of Jeffco EDC. “These winners are proving that progress is not achieved alone; it is 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
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 event highlighted the strength of the county’s business community. “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 said the awards also serve as a springboard for the organization’s next phase. “We are 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 have emerged as one of the region’s leading celebrations of collaboration, innovation and leadership, uniting the efforts of Jeffco EDC, the West Metro Chamber and Leadership Jeffco to strengthen economic and community vitality across the county.