Dedicated to enhancing economic conditions and improving prosperity across Southwest Colorado. As a regional leader, it collaborates with both private and public sectors to foster growth. The district proudly serves Archuleta, Dolores, La Plata, Montezuma, and San Juan counties, including their cities and towns, as well as the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute Indian Tribes. Key initiatives include providing gap financing through its Business Loan Fund, offering state tax credits via the Enterprise Zone program, and maintaining a Data Dashboard for economic insights.

Additionally, Region 9 partners with the Southwest Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for free business consulting and workshops, and the Southwest Colorado Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs (SCAPE) to support startups with education, mentoring, and funding access. The district also facilitates the SouthWest Opioid Response District (SWORD) to help local governments address substance misuse.