Brandon Eldridge has been appointed as the new executive director of the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center (SBDC), commencing his role on April 3.
Eldridge takes over from Aikta Marcoulier, who departed in May last year after serving as the head of the Pikes Peak SBDC for a decade to assume the position of administrator at the Small Business Administration’s Region 8 office in Denver.
Previously, Eldridge served as the market director for Underline, a company focused on constructing fiber internet infrastructure and connections for both residential and business clients in Colorado Springs. His professional background also includes positions at Chase Bank and Vectra Bank, where he gained extensive experience working with small businesses and nonprofit organizations.
The announcement of Eldridge’s appointment was made by the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC, which took over as the new host for the Pikes Peak SBDC in January, following its previous hosting by El Paso County.
Describing the role of the SBDC executive director as crucial in supporting small businesses, the Chamber highlighted Eldridge’s 22 years of management experience across various sectors, including technology, banking, and retail. Eldridge is also actively involved in the Colorado Springs business community, serving as the president of Leadership Pikes Peak and the Council of Neighborhood Organizations (CONO). He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Colorado Technical University.
The Pikes Peak SBDC assists small businesses in the region by offering consulting services and affordable or no-cost training to aid in their establishment and growth. Additionally, it facilitates connections between small business owners and available resources and financing options through Colorado’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade.
Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, president and CEO of the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC, expressed confidence in Eldridge’s ability to bring energy and enthusiasm to the role, emphasizing the collaborative effort to address business challenges, foster growth, and promote success.
Highlighting the increasing demand for small business lending and the challenges faced by small firms, the Chamber underscored the SBDC’s role in helping entrepreneurs navigate obstacles and achieve growth.