New Events to Feature Colorado Small Businesses

DENVER – Today, Gov. Polis and the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC), a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), joined Outside Interactive Inc., Denver Mayor Mike Johnston and Visit Denver to preview the second annual Outside Festival and Summit taking place in Denver May 29 - June 1, 2025.

DENVER – Today, Governor Polis and the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC) of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced the largest infrastructure project to receive funding through the Colorado State Outdoor Recreation grant (COSORG).

With dynamic outdoor spaces and a never-ending list of recreational activities to choose from, spending time outside is a central part of the Colorado lifestyle. From an economic standpoint, it’s no surprise that in 2023, outdoor recreationists spent over $52.1 billion dollars on trips and equipment in Colorado, contributing to a total economic output of $65.8 billion. The Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC) serves as the State’s primary coordinator for outdoor recreation industry matters in Colorado.

Today, Governor Polis and the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC) of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced the inaugural Outside Festival at Denver’s Civic Center Park, June 1-2, 2024. This flagship event will celebrate Colorado’s unparalleled outdoor recreation lifestyle and industry, while advancing our state’s commitment to increasing access to the outdoors.

Today, Governor Polis and the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC) of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced 12 new recipients of the Colorado

Today, the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC) of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced 24 recipients of the Outdoor Recreation Industry Impact Fund (ORIIF). These grants are intended to help outdoor recreation industry businesses and nonprofits hire and retain over 100 full-time and part-time positions.

Today, Governor Polis and the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC) of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced nine new recipients of the Colorado State Outdoor Recreation Grant across the state. These grants will provide professional development for over 200 students and workers across Colorado as they prepare for or further their careers in outdoor recreation, including organizations that provide outdoor experiences to youth who might otherwise experience barriers to outdoor recreation.

This summer, the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (or as we like to call it, OREC) took to the road for a listening tour.