Featuring Curt Bear, Founder, LoCo Think Tank
Curt Bear is an entrepreneur who is servant-hearted and collaboratively focused. His intent is to facilitate opportunities for engagement and growth, especially for leaders of small businesses. Curt is an idea guy who loves nearly everyone he meets and is dedicated to service to the community.
Curt was raised in North Dakota by a 1st generation farmer/entrepreneur. He earned a Bachelors in Economics at North Dakota State University. His career began as a Credit & Management Trainee at Community First National Bank This path landed him a job in Fort Collins in 1999, sight unseen. He later rose to Vice President roles at other banks.
After a 15-year career as a small business banker, Curt launched LoCo Think Tank in 2014 mostly as a means of transforming himself from Banker to Restaurateur. He started a mobile catering business called Bear's Backyard Grill. Soon, his work focused solely on LoCo Think Tank. As the Founder of LoCo Think Tank, he serves as a Facilitator, trainer, and encourager for the growing team of LoCo Facilitators.
Curt’s training in meeting facilitation included his role as Discussion Leader with Bible Study Fellowship. He learned about Service Above Self from his fellow Rotarians in the Fort Collins Breakfast Rotary Club. He developed an understanding of business-owner peer advisory techniques as a member of Vistage and came to understand a whole-person approach to success in life by his long-term involvement with The Matthews House in Fort Collins, where he served on the Board and as Chair. These experiences are the cornerstones of LoCo Think.
Curt is grateful for the influence of the organizations and individuals who inspired and encouraged him during his banking career and entrepreneurial journey. He also enjoys serving as a volunteer emcee or facilitator for non-profit causes and is a speaker on many topics.
The many experiences of his upbringing in the Midwest, a career in CO, and service opportunities have made Curt Bear a servant leader who facilitates leadership and service for the community.