PUEBLO—The City of Pueblo announced a Request for Qualification (RFQ) for an Economic Development Consultant on Jan. 8 with a deadline for questions on Jan. 22 and a final response deadline of Jan. 29.
The City is seeking a highly qualified and experience consulting firm for professional services in the areas of strategic marketing, business attraction and retention, and identification and development of capital improvement projects. The goal of these services is to stimulate primary job creation, increase the City’s sales tax base, and enhance the overall economic vitality of the community.
“We look to advance our economic development efforts in the City of Pueblo in key areas such as business retention, small business support, redevelopment initiatives, community engagement and workforce partnerships,” said Mayor of Pueblo Heather Graham.
The RFQ for a consultant for economic development came with the end of the contract with Pueblo Economic Development Corporation (PEDCO). On September 29, 2025, the City of Pueblo provided PEDCO with notice of its intention to terminate its contract. The City of Pueblo terminated its contract with PEDCO for economic development services effective December 31, 2025.
“While we work to engage a new consultant, or develop an internal department, I want you to know the City is prepared to assist with information, , documentation, or coordination needed to support you during this transition,” said Mayor Graham. “I ask that you contact the City of Pueblo Mayor’s office with all inquiries or to have further conversations regarding economic development.”
Mayor Graham stood up an internal initiative called “Advance Pueblo” during the summer of 2025 for a more streamlined approach to economic development with direct participation from the City of Pueblo. Advance Pueblo is not new department but rather a collaboration of City departments, including Purchasing, Public Works, Planning, Law, Mayor’s Office, Housing and Citizen Services, and Finance. Additionally Pueblo Urban Renewal Authority (PURA) has worked closely with Advance Pueblo.
Advance Pueblo is the City of Pueblo’s central hub for coordinating economic development activities within the community. Working with and through development partners—both public and private—the City is dedicated to fostering a business-friendly ecosystem, job creation, and long-term prosperity for the City. Advance Pueblo works to attract investment, support local businesses and streamline development through strategic planning, public-private partnerships and bold innovation.
“I look forward to Advancing Pueblo, we are open for business,” said Mayor Graham.