Colorado SBDC receives $1.81 million in federal funding to support small businesses

DENVER — The Colorado Small Business Development Center network received $1.81 million in federal funding through the U.S. Small Business Administration, supporting business advising, training and technical assistance programs across the state.

The Colorado Small Business Development Center, hosted by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade since 1989, serves entrepreneurs and small businesses in all 64 counties through 14 full-service centers and more than 25 satellite locations.

The network provides no-cost business advising, educational programs and connections to capital for businesses at various stages of development, including startups, family-owned companies, manufacturers, agricultural producers and rural employers.

“Helping small businesses grow and create jobs is a shared priority,” Gov. Jared Polis said. “This funding allows the Colorado SBDC to continue helping entrepreneurs strengthen Main Streets, create jobs and grow Colorado’s economy.”

According to OEDIT, Colorado is home to more than 730,000 small businesses, representing 99.5% of all businesses in the state and employing about 1.2 million people.

In 2025, the Colorado SBDC advised more than 6,700 businesses, helped clients secure more than $75 million in capital, supported more than $31 million in sales growth, assisted in the launch of 385 businesses and helped create or retain more than 1,500 jobs. The network also provided training and educational programs to more than 13,000 entrepreneurs.

“Supporting small businesses is more important than ever, and the Colorado SBDC is a crucial resource,” OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman said.

The Colorado SBDC operates through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration and partnerships with local economic development organizations, higher education institutions, cities, counties, chambers of commerce and community organizations.

In 2025, federal funding accounted for $2.25 million, or 48.6%, of the Colorado SBDC’s budget, while nonfederal sources contributed $2.38 million, or 51.4%.