Outdoor Recreation

Supporting local economic development and increased access to the outdoors across the Western Slope to Southern 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, 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.

Today, Governor Polis and the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC) of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced a new grant program to support continued pandemic recovery among outdoor recreation industry businesses and nonprofits. The Outdoor Recreation Industry Impact Fund (ORIIF) will provide funding to help outdoor recreation industry employers hire and retain staff across the state.

Here in Colorado, we don't need a designated day each year to get outside. Every day and every season, Coloradans find a way to enjoy our great outdoors. Snow or shine, our state offers an expansive playground for people with diverse passions, skills, and abilities. Friday, April 22 is Earth Day and we’ve made a list of local businesses who make it easy for you to go out and enjoy Mother Nature in whatever capacity fits you best.

Spring break in Colorado gives students and families a chance to recharge, reconnect and maybe even revisit the open road. While millions of visitors travel to Colorado every year, Coloradans themselves comprise a significant travel segment and account for 24 percent of overnight leisure trips, adding significant economic impact to the state’s travel and tourism economy. 

DENVER -- Today, the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) named Conor Hall as the new Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC) Director.