We believe that small business is such an important economic driver that it merits an in-depth look once a year. While big companies often think of technology as a way of cutting costs, our small businesses think of technology as a way to add value to their products and services. And, while some entrepreneurs have questions about the Internet's ultimate usefulness, many of you are are using the Internet to perform market research that shortens the time frame for launching new products.
Small business is a vast enterprise.
In metro Denver it encompasses more than 90 percent of all companies. It has huge buying power and it represents a growing political presence. Our research continues to show that Denver has the potential to be a small-business hub for the Rocky Mountain region if taxes remain low and public policy effectively addresses the needs of entrepreneurs. For that reason, it's a welcome sign that universities across the metro area are increasing their focus on entrepreneurs and the training of entrepreneurs. Many see growth ahead in 1997, but they are realistic about the prospects for slower growth for the metro area as a whole.