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Startups Grants In Colorado - 2024

Explore a comprehensive List Of Startups Grants In Colorado to fuel your business growth. Find funding opportunities tailored for your innovation.

Lisa Shmulyan
Accounting & Tax
February 15, 2024

Getting the right funds is key for startups to start and grow. Colorado has many funding options to help new businesses thrive. You can find money through angel investors, venture capital firms, and friendly loans from local lenders. Also, state and federal grants play a big role for businesses that fit certain criteria, helping them expand. For those looking for info, the Startup Colorado Funding Database is a top choice. It has lots of funding sources for startups and young businesses in Colorado. The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) shows its commitment with over 120 grant programs and incentives1.

Key Takeaways

  • Colorado offers comprehensive support through state and federal grants aimed at fostering startup growth
  • The Startup Colorado Funding Database is an excellent resource for finding funding opportunities
  • OEDIT provides more than 120 grant programs and incentives for Colorado businesses1
  • Funding ranges significantly, with awards from small amounts to over $350,0001
  • Available grants support a variety of industries, including advanced manufacturing and life sciences

Overview of Colorado Startup Grants

Getting funding is key for startups to survive and grow. Colorado offers many grants for this. These grants include ones from the state, federal government, local areas, and private foundations. This shows how important funds are for bringing new ideas and growing the economy in Colorado.

Importance of Funding for Startups

For startups, funding is very important. It helps them grow, make new products, and enter new markets. Without enough money, a new company might fail. Grants are great because they give money without taking any ownership away.

Types of Grants Available

In Colorado, there's a wide range of grants for startups. State grants offer up to $15,000, like the Advanced Industries Export Grant. The Community Business Preservation Program offers up to $50,0002. On the federal side, Grants.gov lists big grants from $150,000 to $1,000,0003. Local grants give up to $15,000 to small businesses in rural areas4.

Eligibility Criteria for Grants

To get a grant in Colorado, knowing the rules is a must. Grants have different requirements. They look at where your business is, its size, the sector it's in, and what you need the money for. For example, to apply for the Colorado Startup Loan Fund, your business should make less than $2 million a year. It should also have 25 or fewer full-time workers4. Some grants focus on certain groups, like the BMO Celebrating Women Grant. It requires businesses to be at least 51% owned by women and gives $10,000 to those chosen2. Meeting all requirements is key to getting a grant.

To find out more about grants and their rules, entrepreneurs can check out GrantWatch for detailed info2.

Venture Grants for Colorado Startups

Venture grants are key for many Colorado startups wanting to reach bigger markets. Programs like these provide money to help new businesses grow fast with smart funding. They awarded $8,980,117 to 34 companies for Proof of Concept and Early-Stage Capital and Retention grants5. Also, 42 startups and research groups got grants, showing Colorado's support for new ideas in different fields5.

These funding chances for fast-growing startups include investments from local investors. Angel investors and venture capital firms play a big part. It helps startups grow quickly with both cash and advice5.

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade gives out grants too. They offer between $60,000 to $500,000 for some grants and $55,149 to $150,000 for Proof of Concept grants5.

A lot of startups want these grants. They got 110 applications! These funds help in many areas like life sciences and manufacturing. They support new tech that helps in many ways5.

They also focus on saving water, which shows they care about the planet. Two grants are just for water management5. This way, they make sure new businesses grow in a way that's good for the earth too.

Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade Grants

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) gives out grants to help local businesses grow and reach out to the world. These grants are essential for new and existing companies in Colorado.

Advanced Industries Export Grant

The Advanced Industries Export Grant helps Colorado industries expand into the global market. Businesses can get up to $15,000 for trade shows and other activities abroad. This grant makes it easier for local companies to become global players.

It helps exporters in Colorado, allowing them to be recognized and succeed worldwide.

State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant

The STEP Grant supports small businesses in Colorado with their international trade plans. It offers up to $10,000 for training and marketing in other countries. This boosts Colorado's economy by helping businesses connect globally.

Community Business Preservation Program

OEDIT's Community Business Preservation Program aids essential local businesses. It provides up to $50,000 to help businesses overcome economic challenges and grow. This program is key to keeping Colorado's economy strong and diverse.

Colorado is known for its variety, creativity, and educated people. It's a great place for businesses because of its advanced infrastructure and skilled labor. The state also supports innovation, as seen in grants to 34 companies and eight researchers for growth and development. Learn more at Choose Colorado6.

BMO Celebrating Women Grant

The BMO Celebrating Women grant program gives a big hand to women who run their own businesses. It provides 15 grants of $10,000 each to those who fit the bill, with a window from April 30 to May 147 to throw your hat in the ring. The program looks for businesses where women have the major say – meaning they own or lead by at least 51%, and have been up and running for two years by April 1, 20248.Your business must be based in certain states like Colorado8 to be eligible. They're looking for companies raking in no more than $5 million USD annually8. But it's not just about the money. Winners also get coaching and promotional boosts from BMO's grant initiative8.Since starting out, this program has gifted over half a million bucks to 56 businesses led by women across North America7. BMO has put $525 million towards supporting businesses owned by women, Black folks, Latinos, and Native Americans7. Teaming up with companies like Deloitte, BMO's got big plans to help even more women win grants8.Besides cash, the program's application process makes you put your best foot forward. You'll need to make videos and fill out questionnaires about growing your business9. They want to make sure the most fitting female entrepreneurs and women-run businesses in CO and beyond get the lift they need9.For all the nitty-gritty on how to apply, the official BMO Celebrating Women Grant FAQs is your go-to guide8. It covers everything you need to know so you're all set when applying.With such solid backing, BMO is all in on pushing CO female entrepreneurs forward. It's all about giving them the push they need towards greater success with its grants8.

Funding from First Southwest Community Fund

The First Southwest Community Fund helps small business in rural Colorado. It offers support to businesses with up to 10 workers. These grants and low-interest loans help businesses meet various needs. They also team up with the Colorado Startup Loan Fund. This gives grants up to $15,000 for everyday costs and managing people10.

Grant Amounts and Purposes

Their grants help in many ways, like buying inventory or dealing with money troubles. Businesses like KWUF Radio and Valley Roots Food Hub used the grants to change how they work. Others, such as Pagosa Mountain Sports and ZU Gallery, are thankful for the support10.

There are also micro-grants for innovation. The Innovate Onwards Fund gives up to $500,000 to help businesses grow. This boosts funding for rural companies in Colorado10.

Eligibility and Application Process

To get a grant, businesses must meet certain criteria. They should be in rural Colorado and have 10 or fewer workers. They often serve underserved or minority groups. Programs support women and diverse farmers and ranchers11.

To apply, businesses must show they fit these criteria. They can also join workshops to learn more about business growth. The Fund offers more than money—it provides educational and technical help11. This helps rural Colorado's businesses succeed and expand.

Grants for Specific Arenas

Colorado gives out special grants for different industries and projects. These grants help with money needs and boost local growth and new ideas.

Small Food Business Recovery & Resilience Grant

Small food shops and family farms can get up to $50,000 from the Small Food Business Recovery & Resilience Grant. This money helps to make healthy food more available statewide. It boosts support for farming and allows entrepreneurs to expand and help the economy12.

Tree Canopy Grants

Tree Canopy Grants offer $2,000 to $12,000 for city tree planting projects. These grants aim to grow city trees, helping the environment and people's health. Cities and groups working to better local nature can greatly benefit from this support13.

National Grant Programs for Colorado Startups

Colorado startups can tap into several national grant programs. These funds greatly support their growth. They complement local efforts and bridge funding gaps for various needs.

Grants.gov

Grants.gov is a key source for federal grants for startups. It lists many funding opportunities across sectors. Entrepreneurs can find and apply for grants that match their business objectives here. It's a great way to discover financing options that might be hard to find elsewhere.

National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants

The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) provides business grants. These grants support small businesses with up to $4,000. The funds can be used for marketing, hiring, and expansion. NASE Growth Grants are vital for startups aiming to boost their operations and ensure success.

America’s Seed Fund

America’s Seed Fund, supported by the Small Business Administration (SBA), offers innovation grants. They give $50,000 to $1.8 million to small tech businesses. The aim is to support breakthrough innovations and help startups market their ideas. Colorado startups can use these grants to grow and change their sectors.

To learn more about the startup scene in Colorado and funding options, check this out: Colorado startup ecosystem. State and national programs provide strong support for innovative firms. This boosts the economy and tech progress14.

How to Find and Apply for Colorado Startup Grants

Finding the right grants for your Colorado startup can really change things for you. It's important to know how to move through the grant process in CO. Make sure you're aiming your efforts accurately and meeting all the criteria needed.

Narrowing Down Your Search

Start your grant search in Colorado with detailed research. Considering there are more than 690,000 small businesses eligible in Colorado, finding the right grants is key15. Check out resources like the Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for help and advice. Use online tools to focus on grants that fit your business type and goals.

Managing Time and Meeting Deadlines

Applying for grants in CO means you need great time management. For example, the Skill Advance Colorado grant offers businesses up to $200,000 each year15. It's vital to plan your time for getting documents ready, writing proposals, and hitting deadlines. Missed deadlines can mean missing out on a lot of money, so remember to keep track of important dates.

Understanding Eligibility Requirements

Grants ask for specific things like what kind of industry you're in, where you're located, and the size of your business. Many Colorado startups qualify under the U.S. Small Business Administration's definition15. Also, programs like the State Trade Expansion Program give up to $10,000 to businesses that qualify each year15. Make sure your business meets the requirements of the grants you apply for to improve your success chances.

Getting a grant in CO means knowing where to look, managing your time well, and fitting the criteria. Use these strategies to boost your chances of getting funding. This can help take your Colorado startup to new levels.

Conclusion

Colorado's startup world is full of chances for entrepreneurs to find business growth funds. Entrepreneurs can use many strategies to get financial help. This helps a lot in growing their business. They can get grants from $500 to $50,000. This money comes from places like the Gates Family Foundation and the Denver Foundation. It helps a lot with new ideas, especially those that solve community and economic problems1617.

The Gates Family Foundation focuses on community, education, and helping those in need. Their grants help improve communities and schools, especially in rural areas, through partnerships17. With these grants, entrepreneurs can make a big difference. They can bring new ideas and growth to Colorado's economy in many fields.

For a startup in Colorado, knowing how to apply for grants is key. Using special funding databases can help. This makes sure they follow the rules and apply on time. This way, businesses increase their chances of getting the money they need. It helps them grow and succeed in the long run.

Grants and Funding Databases

Colorado entrepreneurs have many resources for finding funding. One key resource is the Startup Colorado Funding Database. It offers a wide range of grants from federal, state, local, and private sources. This Colorado small business grants database has specialized grants for women, minorities, veterans, startups, and more. It makes it easier to find the right funding.

Another great tool is the Southeast Colorado SBDC’s grant and funding database. It's designed to help with SBDC grant assistance. This makes it simpler for startups to discover relevant grants and funding options.

With 5,946 total grants available, including 1,165 for nonprofits, 729 for individuals, and 325 for small businesses, there's a lot of support in Colorado18. Also, 1,782 grants are open for applications now. This means there are always new chances for funding18.

There are also 292 technology grants in Colorado19. These are for small businesses, research projects, and STEM students. The deadlines for these grants are between September 4th and September 16th, 2024. They cover topics like space robotics and climate change research19.

Using these databases can greatly improve your chance of getting funding. It also helps with understanding the application process. For Colorado's entrepreneurs, having access to a detailed Colorado small business grants database and SBDC grant assistance is crucial for success.

Support and Consultation Resources

Colorado entrepreneurs have many options for grant and business planning help. The local Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) offer free consulting. They help startups understand how to get funding through Colorado's support services.

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International (OEDIT) provides tailored support. Working with the Colorado Community College System, OEDIT offers job training and business planning. This helps entrepreneurs match their growth plans with available funding.

Federal programs like those from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) help businesses recover from the pandemic20. Colorado companies can use these services to better their chances of getting grants. For example, the Community Business Preservation Program offers grants from $10,000 to $50,00021.

FAQ

What types of funding opportunities does Colorado offer for startups?

Colorado has many funding options for startups. These include angel investors, venture capital firms, and founder-friendly loans. There are also state and federal grants for qualifying businesses.

Why is access to capital crucial for startup growth?

Capital is key for startups to launch and grow successfully. It pays for initial costs, helps expand operations, and funds innovation. Without enough funding, startups may fail to grow.

What is the Startup Colorado Funding Database?

The Startup Colorado Funding Database is a detailed list of funding sources for startups in Colorado. It helps entrepreneurs find and apply for financial aid.

What grants does the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) offer?

OEDIT has several grants like the Advanced Industries Export Grant and the STEP Grant. These are for going global. There's also the Community Business Preservation Program, offering grants up to $50,000.

Who is eligible for the BMO Celebrating Women Grant?

Female entrepreneurs in 24 states, including Colorado, can get the BMO Celebrating Women Grant. It offers $10,000 and applications are open until May 14, 2024.

What kinds of businesses can apply for grants from the First Southwest Community Fund?

Small businesses with less than 10 employees can apply, especially those in rural Colorado. Grants from the First Southwest Community Fund cover various needs like operating costs.

What specific purposes do the Small Food Business Recovery & Resilience Grant serve?

The Small Food Business Recovery & Resilience Grant helps small food retailers and farms. It offers up to $50,000 to improve healthy food access in Colorado.

Are there national grant programs that Colorado startups can access?

Yes, there are national grants for Colorado startups. These include options on Grants.gov, the NASE Growth Grants, and America’s Seed Fund. They offer from $50,000 to $1.8 million.

How can startups find suitable grants in Colorado?

Startups can find grants using resources like the Startup Colorado Funding Database. They offer details on federal, state, and private grants. Specialized grants for women, minorities, and veterans are also listed.

What support and consultation resources are available for grant applications in Colorado?

Help with grants and business planning is available from SBDC centers and the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. The Colorado Community College System also offers free consulting and job training programs.

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