Values that run deeper than term sheets.
We believe exceptional returns begin with exceptional relationships. Our approach prioritizes authentic connection and long-term partnership over transactional investing.
This relationship-first approach isn't just good for founders—it creates stronger companies and better outcomes for everyone involved.
Our approach
We specialize in being the first institutional investor for exceptional founders in overlooked markets, providing the critical validation and momentum needed to secure additional capital.
first check confidence
Join a network of entrepreneurs who share your commitment to building remarkable companies in overlooked markets, connected through our annual founder summit and ongoing support resources.
network activation
We help you scale without sacrificing what makes your company unique, combining the authenticity of small communities with the ambition to create category-defining outcomes.
value-aligned growth
Our connections span from local economic development resources to national co-investment partners, helping you navigate growth while maintaining your values and community connections.
founder community
Our Story & Team
Howdy Partners was founded by entrepreneurs who understand the unique journey of building in overlooked markets.
We've been in enough boardrooms, driven the backroads, slept in vans to visit remote founders, and challenged conventional wisdom about where remarkable companies can thrive.
Our team brings both the authority of sophisticated venture expertise and the empathy that comes from having walked miles in the same small town landscape you're navigating now.
Behind us, we have dozens of private LPs who have run some of the largest financial institutions and companies on the planet, and dozens of others who believe in the mission and help us punch above our weight.
The OUTFIT
Cory Finney
Founder, Managing Partner
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Cory is a sixth-generation Coloradan, born and raised in Durango—where he lives today. His entrepreneurial journey began in college when he co-founded SnowGate, a startup he led from idea to acquisition in just three years. While serving as Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Boomtown Accelerator, Cory found his stride in helping early-stage founders navigate fundraising. That experience led him to co-found Kokopelli Capital, Colorado’s first pre-seed fund. In 2018, he co-founded the Greater Colorado Venture Fund—now Howdy Partners—where he continues to support founders building ambitious companies outside the usual echo chambers.
Marc Nager
Founder, Managing Partner
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Marc has spent the past two decades building and supporting entrepreneurial communities around the world. As co-founder and former CEO of Startup Weekend and UP Global, he helped launch programs that supported nearly one million entrepreneurs across five continents. Before joining Howdy Partners, Marc served as Chief Community Officer at Techstars and Managing Director of the Telluride Venture Accelerator. From grassroots organizers to Fortune 500 execs, he’s worked alongside all kinds of builders to move innovation forward. Originally from Mammoth Lakes, CA, Marc now lives in Durango with his wife Ashley and their daughters, Lia and Zoe.
Jamie Finney
Founder, Venture Partner
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Jamie’s path to Howdy Partners started with Startup Colorado and Kokopelli Capital, where he helped build early-stage support for founders across the state. As Venture Partner, he focuses on the fund’s investing and finance operations. Outside of venture, Jamie writes about the future of capital and supports others who are building a more equitable version of capitalism. He’s proud to live and work in Durango.
Kiki Hooton
Community & Events
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Kiki brings a deep passion for sustainable business and local resilience to her work. At Howdy Partners, Kiki leads the charge on founder-facing programs like the Founders Summit and the Pitch Series—crafting experiences that meet modern rural entrepreneurs where they are. With a background in environmental technology and sustainability, she also serves as Program and Membership Director at Local First, supporting independent businesses across Southwest Colorado.
MERITAGE
Back-office & Fund Admin
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Meritage Accounting Group supports Howdy Partners behind the scenes, providing expert fund administration and back-office services. From investor communications to compliance and accounting, their work ensures that operations run smoothly—so the team can stay focused on backing bold founders across overlooked markets.
COMPANY WE KEEP
INVESTORS
Behind us, we have dozens of private LPs who have run some of the world’s largest institutions alongside mission-driven backers who help us punch above our weight.
ECOSYSTEM
We couldn’t do this work alone. Our work is just one piece of a massive puzzle of individuals and organizations driving entrepreneurship forward across Colorado.
FOUNDERS
Our founders are truly exceptional. From first time founder to serial entrepreneur, our portfolio proves that extraordinary doesn't need a skyline to make their mark.