How the Colorado SBDC network empowers Colorado's entrepreneurs at every stage of the business journey

Last year, the Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network supported over 13,000 entrepreneurs and small businesses, helped launch more than 450 new businesses, created and retained over 3,300 jobs, and increased sales at small businesses by over $81 million. The SBDC also helped the state’s small businesses access over $120 million in funding.

Colorado is leading the way in employee ownership, and we’re thrilled that it's making news across the state. Over the past year, several news articles have highlighted the Colorado Employee Ownership Office (EOO) and the advantages of employee ownership for small businesses. Research suggests employee-owned businesses create a more fulfilling work experience for employee-owners, including higher wages, reduced turnover, access to better benefits, and job security.

How the Cannabis Business Office Helps Entrepreneurs Develop their Small Business

The Colorado Cannabis Business Office (CBO), part of OEDIT’s Business Support division, plays a key role in maintaining Colorado's legacy as a leader in the cannabis industry and the movement to invest in social equity business owners.

14 Ways OEDIT has Supported Coloradans

DENVER – Today, Governor Polis and the Business Support division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced the Partner Outreach Program (POP) to connect Colorado entrepreneurs and small business owners to OEDIT programs.

OLATHE – Today, Gov. Polis and the Colorado Employee Ownership Office, housed within the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), announced that Rocky Mountain Steel, Inc., based in Olathe, Colorado, is now 100% employee owned. The company transitioned to a 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in June with support from the Employee Ownership Office.

DENVER – The 2024 legislative session delivered real results for Colorado businesses of all sizes and positioned the state’s economy to continue to thrive. From nation-leading investments to strengthen Colorado’s workforce and create housing Coloradans can afford near job centers to cutting taxes and increasing certainty for business leaders, Colorado is doubling down on its commitment to be the best place to start and grow a business.

AURORA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has recognized the Aurora-South Metro Small Business Development Center (SBDC) as this year’s winner of the SBDC Excellence and Innovation Center award. The center is being recognized for its pivotal role in driving economic growth in Colorado and fostering the spirit, support and success of the state’s entrepreneurs and innovators.