City Opens Applications for Small Business Support Grants

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

Denver, CO - January 13, 2026 - 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, February 10, 2026.

In 2025, $1.29M was awarded to 100 eligible businesses impacted by city-funded construction projects.

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 Williams Street to Ivy Street for construction occurring February 2025 - November 2025.

The city will be offering 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.

"Denver's Business Impact Opportunity Fund reflects Denver's commitment to helping small businesses weather the challenges that come with progress," said Adeeb Khan, Executive Director of Denver Economic Development & Opportunity. "As we invest in infrastructure that benefits the entire city, we also recognize the need to stand alongside the businesses that make our neighborhoods vibrant. These grants and technical assistance are about helping those businesses to not only survive construction but thrive long after."

"The Fax Partnership is proud to continue its work with DEDO and the BIO Fund and 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, The Fax Partnership. "We recognize the construction is disruptive, but we are committed to achieving our mission of 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.

Last year, 100 businesses received grants through the Business Impact Opportunity Fund, view all previous grant recipients here.

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