BizWest Announces 'Most Influential Business Leaders' Nominees

Voting ends this Sunday for the annual recognition program

Jan. 28, 2026 at 4:47pm

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BizWest has announced 50 nominees across 10 categories for its 2026 'Most-Influential Business Leaders' recognition. Online voting continues through this Sunday, January 28th, with the winners to be announced at a celebration event on February 26th.

Why it matters

The 'Most-Influential Business Leaders' program highlights the top business professionals in the region who are driving economic growth, innovation, and community impact. The nominees represent a diverse range of industries and organizations that are shaping the local business landscape.

The details

The 50 nominees span 10 categories including Banking and Finance, Professional Services, Construction, Employers, Government & Education, Health Care, Hospitality & Retail, Manufacturing & Technology, Organizations, and Real Estate. Voting is open to the public through an online platform that requires a valid email address, with all submissions remaining confidential. The winners will be announced at a celebratory event on February 26th at The Forge Event Center in Loveland.

  • Voting opened on January 1, 2026 and will close at 11:59pm on Sunday, January 28, 2026.
  • The 'Most-Influential Business Leaders' celebration event will be held from 4pm to 6:30pm on February 26, 2026 at The Forge Event Center in Loveland.

The players

Joy Waters-Urias

Nominee in the Banking and Finance category, representing SouthState Bank.

Lori Jones

Nominee in the Professional Services category, representing Avocet Communications.

Connie Dohn

Nominee in the Construction category, representing Dohn Construction Inc.

Jay Ewald

Nominee in the Employers category, representing Northern Bean.

Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde

Nominee in the Government & Education category, representing the City of Boulder.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The winners of the 'Most-Influential Business Leaders' recognition will be announced at the celebration event on February 26th.

The takeaway

The diverse group of nominees for BizWest's 'Most-Influential Business Leaders' program highlights the breadth of talent and leadership driving economic growth and innovation across Northern Colorado's business community.