UPDATE FROM OUR CEO

May 2025 Newsletter


Good morning Casper,


As we continue building momentum this spring, I want to take a moment to talk about something critical to our future: staying engaged at the local level.


You know, it’s easy to get caught up in the noise of federal and statewide issues. Especially when they deserve our attention. However, some of the most meaningful opportunities for Natrona County are right here in front of us - matters that could shape our community for generations. They not only deserve our focus and energy, but need our active participation.


Lately, a handful of voices have been dominating much of our local conversation. And, while every opinion matters, it’s important that our elected leaders hear from a broader, more complete picture of who we are and what we value. If only one side speaks up, that’s all that echoes.


No matter where you stand, I encourage you to show up, get involved, and make your voice heard. This is our home, and together we have the chance to help guide it in a direction we can all be proud of. But as we always say - Casper won't grow itself.


Thank you for believing in this place, for investing in its future, and for being an integral part of the work we're doing together.


Sincerely,


Justin


Justin Farley

CEO | President

justin@advancecasper.com

NEW & NOTEWORTHY IN

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. UW Launches Nuclear Energy Certificate Programs


The University of Wyoming's School of Energy Resources and College of Engineering and Physical Sciences have introduced new undergraduate and graduate certificate programs in nuclear energy sciences. Set to commence this fall, these programs aim to prepare students for careers in the nuclear energy industry, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in this sector.​ For more details, visit the University of Wyoming News Release.

LEARN MORE

2. Supporting Women in the Workforce: Dress for Success Comes to Casper


Dress for Success Casper, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women through professional attire and career development, has recently opened a new boutique at 216 E. 2nd St. in downtown Casper. This expansion enhances their mission to support unemployed and underemployed women in achieving economic independence. The boutique offers personalized styling sessions, interview preparation, and access to a network of support services. Join us in welcoming them to our community!

EXPLORE

3. Dr. Brandon Kosine Named New Casper College President


Congratulations to Dr. Brandon Kosine on being named the next President of Casper College! Your commitment to education and deep passion for student success make this a powerful next step for the college and our community. We’re proud to support you and look forward to partnering together in this exciting new chapter for Casper.

MEET DR. KOSINE

4. Opportunity for Wyoming Entrepreneurs: Apply Now for Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program


Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses is bringing its renowned business education program to Wyoming, offering small business owners the tools and support to grow their enterprises. This free, 12-week program provides practical business training, access to capital, and personalized support services. Participants will engage in both online and in-person sessions, connecting with a network of like-minded entrepreneurs.


Key Details:

  • Application Deadline: June 17, 2025
  • Program Dates: September 24 – December 12, 2025
  • In-Person Sessions: September 24 – 26 and December 9 – 12, 2025​


Eligibility Criteria:

  • Business owner or co-owner
  • Business in operation for at least two years
  • Annual revenues over $75,000
  • Minimum of two employees (including the owner)​


Don't miss this chance to elevate your business and join a thriving community of entrepreneurs.

APPLY NOW

ADVANCE CASPER EVENTS

6th Annual Golf Scramble | July 25th @ 8am


Your favorite Advance Casper event is right around the corner! Dust off your clubs, gather your teams, and meet us on the green for our 6th Annual Golf Scramble on Friday, July 25th at Three Crowns Golf Club. Check in starts at 8:00am, and we tee off at 9:00am. Space is limited - email Chanel to sign up and reserve your spot!

SIGN UP

2025 Casper Start-Up Challenge | Applications Open August 11th


Mark your calendars - the Casper Start-Up Challenge is back! This is your chance to turn a big idea into a growing business with support, mentorship, and seed funding. Whether you're building something brand new or ready to take your early-stage business to the next level, the challenge is open to innovators and trailblazers across Natrona County. Applications officially open on August 11, 2025 - don’t miss your shot to be part of Casper’s entrepreneurial future.

LEARN MORE

COMMUNITY & MEMBER EVENTS

122nd Annual Excellence in Business Awards | May 7th @ 5pm


Step into the spotlight of excellence at the Casper Area Chamber of Commerce's 122nd Excellence in Business Awards, where we honor the heart and soul of Natrona County's thriving business community. This prestigious evening celebrates the innovators, trailblazers, and community champions who make a lasting impact on our region. From groundbreaking startups to legacy businesses, the Chamber will recognize those who exemplify excellence and drive Natrona County forward.

LEARN MORE

LIFT Wyoming 2025 | May 7th


LIFT is a platform designed to engage, entice, and educate our up-and-coming young professionals about what Wyoming has to offer! LIFT Wyoming was born in 2018 out of SHEER determination to take a stand in shaping the perspective of Wyoming’s high school students toward the amazing opportunities Wyoming has to offer as young professionals. This, along with instilling and modeling leadership, and teaching our Wyoming kids they have the POWER and ABILITY to shape their own futures and the future of our great state is what is at the heart of LIFT Wyoming.

REGISTER

Family STEAM Night: Nuclear Energy | May 8th 4pm - 6pm


Join us on May 8th for Family STEAM Night at The Science Zone! In partnership with Radiant, this Family STEAM Night is themed all about Nuclear Energy. Family STEAM Nights are a free activity designed to encourage families to explore STEAM topics together. New topics are introduced each week. Activities are provided on a drop in basis and are supported by ServeWyoming.

LEARN MORE

Funky Junk - Celebrating 10 Yrs! | May 17th 10am - 5pm


Funky Junk is celebrating 10 years in Casper! As the event has continued to gain support and interest, the hyper-local, artisan market has outgrown their current location and is officially taking over David Street Station. Join over 100 creative vendors, a wide variety of grub, Backwards and a beer garden, fantastic music and all the good vibes. Not only is Funky Junk the ultimate place to support small, but all beer sales will go directly to David Street Station, which is a nonprofit organization that needs the support to continue to host amazing events for our community!

GET FUNKY
SUBMIT YOUR EVENT

NEW MEMBERS

CONNECT WITH THE TEAM

Chanel

Operations Manager

Chanel@advancecasper.comom

Justin

President/CEO

Justin@advancecasper.com

Goose

Equity Analyst

Goose@advancecasper.com

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