COLORADO SPRINGS - On January 7, 2025, Governor Polis and the Global Business Development Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced that Desert Harvest, a leading provider of women’s health products and supplements, has selected Colorado Springs, Colorado, for expansion.

“Our state is the best place to live, work and do business, and we are thrilled to welcome Desert Harvest to Colorado Springs where the company expects to create 15 new, good-paying jobs,” said Governor Polis.

Desert Harvest, which is relocating to Colorado from Maine, focuses on producing and selling high quality, scientifically studied, all-natural supplements and skincare. The company’s owner is originally from Colorado Springs.

“The move to Colorado Springs represents an opportunity to return to my roots while growing the company, creating new jobs in my hometown, and supporting the under-served through continuous research, education, and product development,” said Heather Florio, owner and CEO of Desert Harvest.

Desert Harvest expects to create 15 net new jobs at an average annual wage of $68,505, which is 108% of the average annual wage in El Paso County. The positions will include executive and administrative roles, marketing positions, and production and shipping managers.

"Colorado ranks as one of the best states in the nation for women-led startups, and women-owned companies in particular are advancing new technologies and products focused on women’s health. We’re pleased to welcome Desert Harvest to this growing and important ecosystem,” said OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman.

The Colorado Economic Development Commission approved up to $74,628 in a performance-based Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit for the company over an eight-year period. These incentives are contingent upon Desert Harvest, referred to as Project All Natural throughout the OEDIT review process, meeting net new job creation and salary requirements.

“Desert Harvest’s decision to expand in Colorado Springs highlights the strength of our local economy and our region’s ability to support growing businesses. We’re excited about the positive impact their presence will have on our community,” said Tim Vanderhoof, Vice President of Economic Development at the Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC.

The Colorado Springs City Council approved performance-based incentives for Desert Harvest in the form of a sales and use tax rebate on eligible purchases of construction materials, equipment, machinery, furniture, and fixtures. The estimated amount of city incentives is $11,500 over a four-year period if the company meets minimum investment and new job creation requirements. The company was also offered the Rapid Response Program as well as talent and workforce development support, programs that are managed by the city’s Economic Development Department.

“I am excited to welcome Desert Harvest to its new home in Downtown Colorado Springs,” said Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade. “This innovative health and wellness company will support the economic vitality of our city through 15 new full time jobs, and I applaud their efforts to enhance people’s quality of life. I look forward to celebrating future innovation and growth opportunities here in our city, especially in our Downtown corridor, which welcomed 28 new business openings in 2024.”

In addition to Colorado, Desert Harvest considered Portland, Maine, for expansion.

About Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire—and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT.