Living in Casper isn’t something people stumble into - it’s a choice. And when you choose a place like this, you also choose to care about where it’s headed.

As we look toward 2026, it’s clear that Casper is at an important moment. Wyoming continues to see young people leave, our population is aging faster than it’s growing, and opportunities are moving quickly across the country.

These realities aren’t meant to discourage us - they’re meant to remind us that the future doesn’t wait. If we want Casper to remain a place people choose to stay, return to, and invest in; we have to be willing to talk about growth now - not later.

Growth isn’t always comfortable. It asks us to learn, listen, and sometimes sit in conversations that feel new or challenging. But growth is also our responsibility. Casper has always been built by people who show up, do the work, and give their word - and that same mindset applies to economic development today.

One of the most important things we can do as a community is tell our story. When we lead with who we are, we attract people and businesses who fit here and want to build alongside us. When we stay quiet, others fill in the blanks. I believe Casper’s story deserves to be told clearly, confidently, and by the people who live it, believe in it, every day.

No one has to do this work alone. But each of us does have a role to play - whether that’s showing up to conversations, supporting local businesses, staying informed, or simply being willing to engage where it's not always comfortable.

Economic development isn’t something that we will meet down the road; it’s here. What will we do with the growth at our fingertips?

Join us at our upcoming Advance Casper Quarterly Breakfast on Wednesday, January 21st at 7:00 AM, where business and community leaders come together to connect, share ideas, and continue the conversation around thoughtful growth in Natrona County.

The year ahead holds real opportunity, and shaping what comes next requires participation. Whether you’re a business owner, founder, or someone who simply cares deeply about this community, your voice matters. I hope you’ll join us, bring a colleague who shares that commitment, and help us set the tone for a strong year ahead.

Natrona County Means Business - and the future of Casper is something we build together.

Justin

Justin Farley

CEO | President

justin@advancecasper.com

Quarterly Breakfast | Wednesday, January 21st @ 7:00 AM

Join us for our first Quarterly Breakfast of 2026 on Wednesday, January 21 at 7:00 AM at the Casper Country Club. This gathering is a great opportunity to: come together, connect with fellow business and community leaders, cast your vote for the Advance Casper Board candidates, and have an open conversation about growing Casper in 2026.

We’re excited to welcome The Wyoming Reserve as our guest speaker to kick things off. They’ll be sharing perspectives on statewide economic opportunity and how local efforts here in Natrona County can play a pivotal role in shaping what comes next.

All members are invited to join - and we encourage you to bring someone who is just as invested in economic development as we are. To RSVP, please email chanel@advancecasper.com.

Quarterly Cocktails | Thursday, February 19th @ 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Join us for Advance Casper Quarterly Cocktails on Thursday, February 19 from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at the new Hyatt Place Casper. This casual evening is a great opportunity to connect with fellow members, continue the conversation around growing Casper, and experience the newest hotel in town - all with a drink in hand.

Members are welcome to invite a plus one who is just as invested in Casper’s future as we are. To RSVP, please email chanel@advancecasper.com.

We hope you’ll join us for good conversation, new connections, and a toast to what’s next for Casper.

ART321 Opening Reception & ARTWALK | January 8th @ 5:30 PM

Join us for ART321’s Monthly Opening Reception & ARTWALK - a welcoming evening celebrating creativity, community, and connection. Enjoy brand-new exhibits and artwork, live music, drinks and appetizers, great company, and as always… cake.

An artist talk begins at 6:30 PM, offering insight into the work on display and the stories behind it.

Come support local artists and experience the creative energy that makes Casper special. The event is free and open to the public!

NIC Winter Opening Reception | January 9th @ 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Kick off the new year with art, culture, and community at the Winter Opening Reception on Friday, January 9th from 5:30 - 7:30 PM at the Nicolaysen Art Museum. This seasonal celebration brings new exhibits to life, invites you to explore creative work from local and regional artists, and offers a great opportunity to connect with fellow art lovers and neighbors.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a fun, community-focused evening, all are welcome to experience this winter showcase. Admission is just $5 per person or $10 per family, making it an accessible outing for everyone.

Skate & Stout Night | January 23rd 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Warm up your winter with community, skating, and great local brews! Join Casper for Skate & Stout Night with Black Tooth at the David Street Station ice rink - an evening of ice skating, cold weather fun, and delicious stouts from a favorite local brewery. It’s the perfect way to connect with friends, enjoy our seasonal rink, and soak up the best of downtown Casper’s winter vibes.