Colorado awards grants to grow chip industry statewide

DENVER — The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) on Monday announced five new market study grants aimed at supporting the growth of the state’s semiconductor and advanced industries.

The grants, awarded through the Colorado CHIPS Community Support Program, will support local and regional efforts to strengthen these sectors, including initiatives in eight western Colorado counties.

“The grants announced today support our work to build a Colorado for all,” said Eve Lieberman, executive director of OEDIT. “Colorado’s semiconductor ecosystem is primed for growth from within. By supporting its expansion across the state, including western Colorado, we can help more of our communities grow and benefit from the state’s semiconductor and advanced industries.”

Colorado is ranked among the top 10 states for its business environment and resources that support a strong semiconductor sector, according to the Semiconductor Industry Association.

The Colorado CHIPS Community Support Program was established to expand the semiconductor industry statewide and stimulate new and emerging markets, particularly in rural areas.

“Colorado was ahead of the curve, prioritizing the semiconductor industry for growth,” said Michelle Hadwiger, director of OEDIT’s Global Business Development Division. “Semiconductors are key enablers for advanced and growing technologies like aerospace and defense, AI and quantum. Funding research and identifying opportunities outside of the Front Range will help broaden the geographic scope of these critical industries and diversify regional economies.”

The new grants will fund market research, marketing and promotional efforts to raise awareness of Colorado’s semiconductor strengths and uncover assets in the supply and value chain. Each grant totals $50,000.

Grant recipients include:

• Denver International Airport
• Colorado River Valley Economic Development Partnership (Western Garfield County)
• Douglas County Economic Development Corporation
• Region 10 Economic Development District (Delta, Montrose, Gunnison, Ouray, San Miguel, Hinsdale counties)
• West End Economic Development Corporation (Naturita and western Montrose County)

Applications for the next round of CHIPS Community Support grants are open through Sept. 30, 2025. Communities may apply for market study, implementation or marketing grants.