Like that of many others, Brandon Duarte’s energy career in the coal-transitioning rural community of Craig will be coming to an end within the next few years. For Brandon, developing StealthHunter Gear seemed the best way to begin a new phase without leaving the rural Colorado home he loves.
With 17 years of experience as a hunting guide in Northwest Colorado, he developed two innovative hunting products and initially sought Northwest SBDC assistance in 2022 to bring them to market. He was first referred to the SBDC Business Foundations Technical Assistance Program to establish his business and received a small grant for startup expenses. Later, SBDC events, classes, and several consulting sessions throughout 2023 helped him strategize about how best to operate and grow his business in alignment with his goals.
Growth over the past 12 months has been incredible, and includes expansion through the purchase of a business and patented product which expanded StealthHunter’s offerings. Now, the business includes online retail selling unique 3D elk hunting decoys as well as hunting blinds, stands, and other accessories. The decoys are also available in stores in the Yampa Valley and along I70 from Frisco to Rifle. Further, Brandon is in discussions with a manufacturer interested in licensing one of the products he designed. His company is currently the only dealer of Redneck Hunting Blinds in not only Colorado, but also the Western United States.
“I’ve told several others considering opening a business that I highly recommend the SBDC. They really cover whatever needs you have,” Brandon said. “There are so many facets that go into creating a business that it can be overwhelming, but the consultants, videos, and resources helped me understand what I needed to be successful.”
