Colorado Springs has become a fertile ground for entrepreneurs, thanks to a variety of programs designed to support business growth and innovation. These initiatives provide essential resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities, contributing to the city’s dynamic economic landscape.
Exponential Impact’s Survive & Thrive Program
Exponential Impact, a nonprofit organization, offers the Survive & Thrive program, which combines low-interest loans with an eight-week entrepreneurial development curriculum. This initiative aims to help small businesses scale and succeed by providing financial support and mentorship. Since its inception, Survive & Thrive has infused $4 million into local businesses, fostering economic growth in the region.
Venture Attractor: Nurturing Startups
The Venture Attractor focuses on driving economic development by strengthening the startup ecosystem in Colorado Springs. By connecting entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and a supportive community, the program helps early-stage ventures in sectors like sports and outdoors, health innovation, and human performance to scale and thrive.
The Thrive Network: Empowering Under-Resourced Communities
Dedicated to educating and empowering individuals in Southeast Colorado Springs, The Thrive Network offers personal development, career certifications, and entrepreneurship training. By addressing barriers in under-resourced communities, the program aims to unlock potential and build resilient businesses, contributing to a more equitable and diversified economy.
Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center
The Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides free and confidential consulting, along with low-cost training programs, to help existing and new businesses grow and prosper in the Pikes Peak Region. Their team of business experts assists entrepreneurs in creating and retaining jobs, securing loans, increasing sales, and more.
Avanzar Business Accelerator Program
Targeting Hispanic, emerging majority, veteran, and woman-owned small businesses, the Avanzar Business Accelerator Program offers expert-led training, mentorship, and resources to help entrepreneurs build, execute, and sustain their business visions. Supported by the City of Colorado Springs and the United States Hispanic Chamber, Avanzar is a transformative initiative empowering diverse entrepreneurs in the region.
These programs collectively contribute to a robust support system for entrepreneurs in Colorado Springs, fostering innovation, job creation, and economic development. By leveraging these resources, local businesses can navigate challenges and seize opportunities, ensuring a vibrant and resilient business community.