CURRENT PROJECTS & INITIATIVES

PROJECT

ELEVATED LABS

Elevated LABS is a new entrepreneurship group, led by our CEO, Jake Hogan. Designed as a peer-to-peer network, Elevated LABS brings together local business owners, entrepreneurs, and mentors to help businesses learn, accelerate, build, and sustain.

Mission: Cultivating small business growth through peer-to-peer networking.
Vision: Empowering healthy growth and success in both life and business.
Core Values: Community commitment, accountability, courageous vulnerability, and paying it forward.

Elevated LABS provides a space where entrepreneurs can share insights, gain actionable strategies, build meaningful relationships, and help each other grow from the inside out.

INITIATIVE

REDESIGNING MEMBERSHIP

At Forward Cody, we’re committed to supporting our local business community and that starts with listening. We surveyed our members and the public to understand what matters most to you.

Your feedback is guiding the redesign of our membership model, creating an experience that delivers more value, more connection, and more support for your success. From enhanced resources and networking opportunities to tailored programs and exclusive access, our new membership structure is designed to help businesses grow, thrive, and make a meaningful impact in Cody’s economy.

INITIATIVE

REBRANDING FORWARD CODY

Forward Cody is evolving. Through conversations with members, community stakeholders, and our marketing committee survey, we heard a clear message: it’s time for a fresh start. Our new brand identity isn’t just a new look; it’s a renewed commitment to supporting local businesses, driving measurable economic growth, and building trust through transparency and results.

Our new identity reflects the spirit of Cody where Western grit meets modern innovation. Every element, from logo and colors to typography and imagery, signals strength, progress, and connection.

As we enter a fresh chapter, Forward Cody is confident in our leadership, connected to our community, and committed to building a thriving, sustainable economy for Cody.

PROJECT

WYOMING SHOOTING COMPLEX

Forward Cody played a pivotal role in bringing the Wyoming State Shooting Complex to Park County, creating a landmark opportunity for economic growth, tourism, and outdoor recreation in the State. During the 2023 Legislative session, $10 million was appropriated for the project, supported by Governor Mark Gordon’s creation of a State Task Force to oversee its development. The Task Force conducted a thorough evaluation of multiple proposals from across Wyoming before selecting Park County in July 2024 in an 8-4 vote.

Park County’s compelling proposal, including a comprehensive business plan, projected statewide economic impact, and an exceptional 2,000-acre site just 7.5 miles south of Cody, made it the clear choice. In March 2025, Governor Gordon signed Senate File 169 Section 6, officially allocating $10 million to establish the Wyoming State Shooting Complex in Park County, a historic milestone for Wyoming’s shooting sports industry.

The Wyoming State Shooting Complex is envisioned as a world-class destination opening in 2026/2027, offering state-of-the-art facilities for competitive shooting, training, education, and public use. Plans include hosting 15–20 regional and national events annually, drawing over 10,000 visitors and generating a significant economic impact across Wyoming’s tourism, hospitality, outdoor, and firearm industries.

In May 2025, the project was formally turned over to the Wyoming Shooting Complex Joint Powers Board, comprised of nine members appointed by Park County and the City of Cody, to oversee its development and operations. Forward Cody continues to support this transformative project, serving on key committees and investing $200,000 to help bring this vision to life. Our involvement reflects our commitment to fostering economic growth, creating new opportunities for local businesses, and positioning Cody, Park County, and the State of Wyoming as a premier destination for shooting sports.