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Grand County — At least one homegrown organization isn't letting the sluggish economy prevent it from forging ahead to bolster local businesses.

Five years since its inception, Businesses Without Borders has grown to nearly 250 participants.

"In this economy, it's more important than ever to support our neighbors," said Borders founding member Francie de Vos, owner of a home gift-basket enterprise called Frank Expressions. "Our main focus is to support and promote Grand County businesses through networking opportunities that can increase leads and referrals. The most economical ways to get yourself out there, the better off you'll be."

Businesses Without Borders offers a grassroots approach to marketing - good old-fashioned word of mouth.

And for some business owners strapped for cash, the price is right: free.

"A lot of businesses can't afford memberships to some organizations," she said. "This is an avenue to get out there and get themselves known."

Besides hosting bi-monthly card-exchanging sessions among business owners in rotated locations throughout Grand County, Businesses Without Borders recently launched its Web site. Participates may opt to pay $20 per year to post the name of a business and provide a link for more exposure.

The only "border" Businesses Without Borders has, de Vos said, is that all business participants must have a Grand County address.

"Some people think that if they hang up a sign, everyone will know about them. But it doesn't work that way," de Vos said. "You still need to market and promote."

Her own business gained a boost, she said, when the organization blossomed.

She said she took advantage of networking sessions where each participant gives a 30-second introduction about what he or she does.