In the mid-1800s, inspired by the famous words "Go West, young man" from newspaperman Horace Greeley, Nathan Meeker and 59 other settlers established the Union Colony on the western edge of Colorado's high plains. They named the settlement "Greeley" to honor their boss and journalist friend. Meeker's vision for Greeley was an agricultural utopia, guided by principles such as Cooperation, Irrigation, Agriculture, Temperance, Faith, Family, and Education.
Over the years, Greeley has evolved into a community where hardworking residents support each other and contribute to the town's well-being. Today, Greeley is the largest city and county seat in Weld County, offering the best of both big-city conveniences and small-town comforts. The city has experienced growth and development, especially in its downtown, commercial, and industrial districts. Many new restaurants, businesses, and corporate headquarters have been welcomed. The city's flourishing economy, pleasant climate with abundant sunshine, stunning views of the Front Range Rocky Mountains, and easy access to outdoor activities have earned it the title of an "All America City."
Greeley has received numerous accolades and recognitions over the years. In 2012, Forbes ranked it as the third-best place for business and careers, and Money Magazine named it the second-best place to live in 2008 and the best place to live in 2006.
The University of Northern Colorado excels in Business, Education, Nursing, and Performing Arts. Greeley's education system offers various options, including School District 6 and private, charter, and magnet schools. The GTown Promise aids students with additional support, internships, and funding for higher education. Aims Community College offers health, fire science, aviation, and energy programs.
Greeley offers many activities for exercise enthusiasts, including golf, tennis, parks, disc golf, and biking lanes. The city hosts events like the Greeley Stampede and UNC/Greeley Jazz Festival. Nature lovers can explore nearby national parks and forests. Sports fans can enjoy collegiate and professional games, while culturally, Greeley boasts a top-notch theater and vibrant music scene. North Colorado Medical Center, centrally located in Greeley, offers excellent, full-service healthcare to residents. As a Level II Trauma Center with MedEvac, it leads Northern Colorado's regional healthcare. It houses multiple clinics with many skilled physicians, including specialists. In 2015, Healthgrades ranked it among the nation's top 50 hospitals.
Top employers in Greeley include JBS USA, Banner Health/North Colorado Medical Center, Noble Energy, DCP Midstream, Hensel Phelps, Leprino Foods, the University of Northern Colorado, State Farm Insurance, Xerox Business Services, and TeleTech. For those dreaming of starting their own business, UNC's Small Business Development Center and BizHub Incubator offer the perfect launchpad for entrepreneurial success.