In honor of Women’s History Month and the Chamber’s Women’s Forum, the Colorado Chamber is recognizing women business leaders, executives and job creators who are core to our local Colorado communities. Each of the women featured in the month of March were panelists for the Colorado Chamber’s Women’s Forum which happened on March 27.
Today’s feature is Maria Garcia Berry with CRL Associates
Maria Garcia Berry is the founding partner of CRL Associates, a leading public affairs firm she launched in 1981. With a deep understanding of government and public policy, she has helped organizations navigate complex policy landscapes and build strategic partnerships across Colorado and the country. Under her leadership, CRL Associates has grown into a nationally recognized firm, representing clients for decades by anticipating challenges and strategically positioning organizations for success.
With more than 40 years of experience, Garcia Berry has played a pivotal role in shaping public-private partnerships, leading major civic projects and driving policy initiatives that have transformed Denver’s economic and political landscape. Her ability to solve complex challenges has earned her a reputation as a leader who consistently strives to find a productive solution that benefits all party involved.
A Cuban American immigrant, Garcia Berry’s journey to leadership began when she arrived in the U.S. as a child through Operation Pedro Pan, which brought about 14,000 unaccompanied children from Cuba to the U.S. between 1960 and 1962. Her early experiences fueled her commitment to mentorship, entrepreneurship and immigrant advocacy. She is the chair of the Biennial of the Americas and has held leadership roles with the Cuba Emprende Foundation and the Cuba Study Group, supporting initiatives that foster economic opportunity and cultural exchange. She also played a crucial role in bringing Denver to the global stage at the inaugural Cities Summit of the Americas in 2023.
Her contributions have been widely recognized, including receiving the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Denver Business Journal’s Outstanding Women in Business program. Most recently, she received the Individual Award for International Women’s Day from WorldDenver, presented by Governor Jared Polis. She has also been honored as a Woman of Distinction by the Colorado Girl Scouts and recognized by the Colorado Women’s Chamber as one of the top 25 most powerful women.
The Colorado Chamber honored Garcia Berry as its 2025 Woman of the Year at the Women’s Forum last week, recognizing her extraordinary impact on Colorado’s business community and her dedication to fostering leadership.
Outside of her professional achievements, Garcia Berry has a personal passion for mentorship and entrepreneurship. As a strong believer in civic involvement, she serves on the board of Opera Colorado, the 2nd Judicial Nominating Committee, the Capitol Building Advisory Committee, and the advisory board of Citywide UMB Banks.
Connect with Maria Garcia Berry on LinkedIn.