Business Impact Opportunity Fund

The Business Impact Opportunity Fund is administered by Denver Economic Development & Opportunity, a municipal agency focused on supporting economic vitality, business growth, and community resilience within the City and County of Denver. This program is delivered in partnership with The Fax Partnership and Mile High United Way, reflecting a collaborative approach between local government and nonprofit partners to address economic disruptions. The fund is specifically designed to mitigate the short-term negative impacts that large-scale, city-funded infrastructure projects can have on nearby small businesses, even as those projects aim to improve long-term mobility and livability. The primary purpose of the Construction Stabilization Grant under this fund is to provide financial relief and technical assistance to small businesses that experience revenue loss due to proximity to major construction projects. The current funding round focuses on businesses impacted by the East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit construction project, specifically within defined geographic boundaries. Eligible businesses must be located within 350 feet of the construction area and demonstrate measurable financial harm attributable to the project. The program aims to preserve neighborhood-serving businesses and prevent closures during periods of disruption. Funding is provided as a one-time grant, with award amounts determined by annual gross revenue tiers. Businesses with annual revenue of $100,000 or less may receive $7,500, while those with revenue above $100,000 may receive up to $15,000. In addition to direct financial assistance, the program offers technical support such as capacity-building training and strategies to manage future disruptions. Funds are sourced from a combination of city general funds, special revenue funds, and federal American Rescue Plan Act allocations, reflecting a blended funding structure. Eligibility is restricted to for-profit small businesses operating within specific NAICS categories, including retail, arts and entertainment, accommodation and food services, and certain service industries. Applicants must be in good standing with regulatory authorities, demonstrate at least a 20 percent revenue decline over a comparable 90-day period, and have been operational for a minimum of six months prior to application. Businesses must also remain open and located within the eligible area throughout the application and award process, as the program prioritizes business continuity. The application process requires submission of financial documentation verifying annual revenue and revenue decline, as well as proof of business standing with the Colorado Secretary of State. Applicants must also provide comparative revenue statements for pre-construction and during-construction periods. Applications are submitted through an online portal, and each business location must submit a separate application. A completed application does not guarantee funding, as awards are determined based on multiple evaluation factors. The application deadline for the current round is May 5, 2026 at 5 PM. Applicants can expect notification of funding decisions approximately six to eight weeks after the deadline, with funds disbursed within two to three weeks after all required documentation is submitted. The program operates in rounds tied to specific construction impacts, and businesses generally have a limited window of approximately 12 to 15 months from the onset of impact to apply. For assistance, applicants may attend information sessions or receive one-on-one support. Contact is available via email at info@colfaxave.com or by phone at (303) 832-2086 ext. 3. Additional details and application access are provided through the official program materials and outreach resources, including the flyer referenced on page 1 of the program document.

Ensure accurate 90-day revenue comparisons and compliance documentation; verify eligibility geography before applying