Applications Now Open - Survive and Thrive: Accelerate COS - Spring 2026 Cohort

Exponential Impact, in partnership with the City of Colorado Springs, is now accepting applications for the Spring 2026 Accelerate COS Small Business Loan Program. This initiative provides low-interest, non-collateralized loans up to $50,000, combined with an 8-week entrepreneurial development program designed to help El Paso County small businesses scale and succeed. Applications are open until Oct. 31, 2025.

The program offers two loan options:

• Micro Loans: $1,000-$10,000 for early-stage businesses (minimum 1 year in operation)
• Growth Loans: $10,000-$50,000 for established businesses (minimum 2 years in operation)

Accepted businesses receive a 3-year loan at a fixed 5% interest rate with no prepayment penalty.

"The City of Colorado Springs is excited to continue its partnership with Exponential Impact to support our small business community through the Survive and Thrive: Accelerate COS program," said Shawna Lippert, economic development manager at the City of Colorado Springs. "This program provides essential capital and community support to help small businesses create jobs and strengthen our local economy."

Small businesses headquartered in El Paso County, with fewer than 50 employees are eligible to apply. The program is ideal for businesses planning to hire employees, expand operations, invest in equipment or facilities, or scale their impact in Colorado Springs. Since its inception in 2023, Survive & Thrive: Accelerate COS has provided $2.1 million in total loan funding to 94 businesses.

"What sets Survive & Thrive apart is the combination of accessible capital with real community and mentorship," said Max Cupp, Executive Director of Exponential Impact. "Our participants don't just get a loan, they gain a network of fellow entrepreneurs, experienced mentors, and practical skills that help them navigate the challenges of growing a business."

The 8-week curriculum includes expert-led workshops on financial management, marketing, operations, and leadership, plus small-group "Friendtor Pods" for peer support and accountability.

Program Details:

• Orientation: January 7, 2026, 1-3 p.m.
• Weekly sessions: Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., January 14 - February 25, 2026
• Celebration: March 4, 2026, 5-7 p.m.

Janet Johnson, with Ormao Dance Company shared "On behalf of our entire organization, we are so grateful for the hands-on support, the genuine care shared by XI staff, all the presenters, and our mentor. The real time, current information about access to a vast array of free business resources is life changing for us in realizing our potential growth and impact."

Carola Rafferty, with Carola's Tax Assistance shared that "the program gave me new strategies, helped me tackle challenges like pricing, and reminded me that my business has limitless potential in scalability. Most importantly, it restored my confidence and belief in myself."

Information Sessions: Multiple Q&A sessions will be hosted throughout October for interested applicants. Visit the website for dates and registration.

To apply or learn more: ExponentialImpact.com/accelerate-cos