Life & Work with Susan Graf

Today we’d like to introduce you to Susan Graf.

Hi Susan, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Since the 1960s, Boulder and the Colorado Front Range communities have been filled with trailblazers developing natural and organic products. WhiteWave’s roots stem from Steve Demos selling tofu out of a wagon and Celestial Seasonings tea began with Mo Siegel picking herbs in the Flatirons. Rudi’s Organic Bakery, The Brewing Market (now Allegro Coffee), Pearl Street Market (now Alfalfa’s), and New Hope Natural Media all helped to establish Boulder as a cradle of the natural and organic products industry. In 2004, local leaders became concerned that those home-grown gems needed support as they grew and reasons to stay in our region. An industry group was launched to encourage the formation and expansion of these companies.

The Naturally Boulder Products Task Force provided a platform for entrepreneurs to gain business education, access shared resources, and to network with seasoned industry professionals who could offer guidance and investment. The community model was wildly successful, and the Naturally Boulder Products Task Force (soon changed to Naturally Boulder) comprehensively wove together the “industry hub,” earning the organization acclaim throughout Colorado. Naturally Boulder began gathering the community in 2005 and was blown away by the collaborative spirit of these pioneers – and their ability to throw amazing parties. Today, Naturally Boulder is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit economic development organization with about 1,000 members and more than 100 sponsoring companies. We serve as a voice for the industry and offer year-round educational programming and networking events, mentorship for entrepreneurs, and celebrations that bring together Colorado’s natural and organic products community. Our model has been so successful that it has grown to include affiliates across the U.S., including Naturally San Diego, Naturally Bay Area, Naturally North Bay, Naturally Austin, Naturally Chicago, and Naturally New York. all part of the national Naturally Network.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The vibrant Naturally Boulder community values connection. Before the pandemic, members were accustomed to gathering in person twice a month for educational and networking events. But when COVID-19 hit, Naturally Boulder quickly pivoted to bring all our events online via Zoom, and happily, our members pivoted, too. We continued to offer our planned monthly events and were pleased to see the response when we doubled our usual attendance figures. The pandemic totally reinforced the value of our network.

Naturally Boulder’s marquee event is October’s Pitch Slam & Autumn Awards. This year, we hosted that program virtually, with hope from our friends at New Hope Network who shared the Spark Change platform online. The program included a virtual trade show, a pitch slam featuring 10 Colorado companies vying for a six-figure prize pack, industry leader judges and audience participation. Judges and attendees could opt to receive samples of the products being pitched and contributions from other highly innovative local companies in our Innovation Showcase boxes, shipped directly to their homes. The fast-moving live chat that accompanied the Pitches and the awards ceremony was highly entertaining. We congratulate Grüvi, winner of both the 2020 Pitch Slam and the People’s Choice Award! We also applaud Organic India, recipient of the Climate Catalyst award of 2020; Rowdy Mermaid, Breakout Brand of 2020; and Bill Capsalis, Industry Leader/Community Champ of 2020.

What does success mean to you?
Naturally Boulder actively encourages organic and regenerative practices that take into account the impact on our climate. We believe that regenerative businesses measure success not only through economic gain, but also through long-term, conscious business practices that positively impact human health, communities, and the planet. We love that our members are actively working to create a healthier, more conscious world. Naturally Boulder honors and awards new innovation, individuals who generously share their expertise, and pioneers working to create a more sustainable world.

Pricing:

• $65 annual individual membership
• Sponsorships are available at multiple levels, from $500 to $50K

Contact Info:

• Email: info@naturallyboulder.org
• Website: www.naturallyboulder.org