From the development of a digital local coupon book to an AI-driven platform that personalizes media consumption to enhance mental well-being, the Elevate AI incubator program is funding the advancement of AI exploration and innovation in our community.

Three Durango-based organizations have just been awarded funding- Local First, the Marketing & Communications department at Fort Lewis College (FLC), and InnerFrame. Each of their proposals will leverage AI to create innovative applications that strengthen our region and align with our mission to empower innovators by providing essential resources for AI-driven problem-solving.  

_{Local First Goes Digital with AI-Powered Coupon App}

Local First is exploring how to integrate AI to streamline the production of their popular Be Local Coupon Book and transition to a digital platform. One challenge their proposal aims to solve is the need for patrons to always carry the physical coupon book.

"Local First is thrilled to receive funding through the Elevate AI program at Fort Lewis College. This support will help us improve the production of the Be Local Coupon Book and develop an app to offer digital coupons, making it easier for local residents to access and support our locally owned businesses. We appreciate the opportunity to partner with FLC on this project to share our mutual learning on how to effectively use AI in practical ways. This is a huge step toward fostering a more connected, resilient local economy,” explains CEO Doug McCarthy.

_{FLC Marketing Leverages AI to Boost Storytelling and Outreach}

FLC Marketing & Communications will also explore using AI-driven strategies to streamline systems within the department. They have proposed to utilize AI solutions to automate workflows to increase storytelling and content creation and ensure cohesive, engaging outreach across platforms.

“We’re excited to receive Elevate AI funding! AI-driven insights and new tools will help us enhance FLC’s storytelling, empower our campus partners, and explore where human creativity remains essential to our craft in this changing landscape,” said Lizzie Kost, website content writer.

_{InnerFrame Builds Personalized AI Platform for Mental Well-being}

InnerFrame is developing an AI-driven platform that personalizes media consumption to support mental well-being and personal growth. Their proposal aims to positively impact the community by using AI to enhance user engagement in mental well-being tools, improved emotional resilience, and a more personalized approach to self-development.

"This funding enables us to build a structured framework for integrating AI across InnerFrame’s products and operations. Our focus is on creating a scalable AI system that enhances personalization, efficiency, and long-term adaptability while contributing to the broader AI community through research and knowledge-sharing," said Founder and CEO Erica Hines.

We look forward to seeing these initiatives come to life and create lasting, positive change in our community.

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