City Opens Applications for Small Business Support Grants

Support available for East Colfax businesses impacted by city-funded construction

Denver, CO - Tuesday, April 7 - Denver Economic Development & Opportunity, in partnership with Mile High United Way and The Fax Partnership, announces applications are open for the Business Impact Opportunity (BIO) Fund. This program provides small businesses impacted by city-funded construction projects with grants and technical assistance. Eligible businesses can apply for up to $15,000 by Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

To date in 2026, 33 eligible small businesses have been approved for funding. In 2025, the BIO Fund awarded $1.29 million to 100 eligible businesses impacted by city-funded construction projects. View all previous grant recipients here.

The current round of funding will support small businesses in areas impacted by the following city-funded construction projects:

• East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Construction: East Colfax Avenue from Colorado Blvd to Roslyn Street for construction starting in June 2025.

The city will be offering an information session, application assistance, and technical assistance through their contracted partners. Visit here to view information session dates and get connected to application or technical assistance.

"The Business Impact Opportunity Fund, administered by Denver Economic Development & Opportunity, has been a supportive resource for Denver's small businesses," said Adeeb Khan, Executive Director of Denver Economic Development & Opportunity. "Since 2022, the BIO Fund has supported 592 businesses with $8 million in direct grant support across multiple grant categories. This program is very unique, and Denver is one of only a handful of cities across the US that offers such support to businesses. Opening another round of support for businesses impacted by city construction ensures we continue to stand alongside and strengthen our small business community."

"The Fax Partnership is proud to continue its work with DEDO and the BIO Fund. We applaud the city not only for investing in infrastructure but taking the extra step to support the businesses that make East Colfax, and all of Denver, unique and vibrant," said Monica Martinez, Executive Director of the Fax Partnership. "Work is now underway in the East Colfax neighborhood, and affecting the businesses and residents we serve each day. We are heartened by the opportunity businesses have to apply for funding to offset this disruption, and that we can assist in this process. The BIO Fund represents another tool to use in our ongoing work supporting businesses, as well as residents, so that East Colfax remains diverse and affordable for all."

In addition to business support grants, numerous project partners are behind the We Back the Fax -a community-driven effort encouraging Denver residents and visitors to shop, dine, and engage with East Colfax businesses before, during, and after construction. This initiative helps ensure local businesses remain strong and connected throughout the BRT project.

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