Launching a Tech Business at 10,000 Feet

When people hear I run a computer repair business in Fairplay, Colorado — population 700, elevation 9,953 feet — they usually ask the same question: "Is there enough work up here?"

The answer is yes, and then some.

The Mountain Tech Gap

People up here have the same technology needs as everyone else. They work from home, run businesses, stream movies, and need their computers to work. But the nearest Geek Squad is in Breckenridge, and the nearest Apple Store is two hours away in Denver.

That gap is exactly why Barnstorm exists.

What's Different About Mountain IT

Parts take longer. Amazon two-day shipping is more like Amazon four-day shipping at 10,000 feet. We keep common parts in stock so we're not waiting on deliveries.

The weather is a factor. Hoosier Pass closes, roads ice over, and sometimes you just can't get to a client. That's why we built out our remote support system — we can fix a lot of problems without leaving the shop.

Everyone knows everyone. In a small mountain community, your reputation is everything. We don't need marketing — word of mouth does the work.

Why It Works

The mountains need tech support just as much as the cities. Maybe more, because the infrastructure is harder, the conditions are tougher, and the nearest alternative is a long drive away.

If you're up here and need help, call (719) 838-0435. We're your neighbors, and we're here to help.