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Report: Immigrants contribute $29 billion to Colorado’s workforce economy
ColoradoBiz Staff //May 1, 2026//
Report: Immigrants contribute $29 billion to Colorado’s workforce economy
ColoradoBiz Staff //May 1, 2026//
In Brief:
- Immigrants comprise 14% of Colorado’s workforce
- Immigrant workers generate $29 billion in income
- Immigrants pay $9.5 billion in taxes annually
- Gov. Jared Polis and FWD.us lead roundtable
DENVER — Immigrants make up about 14% of Colorado’s workforce and contribute billions to the state’s economy, according to a new report discussed Thursday by business leaders and state officials at a roundtable meeting.
Gov. Jared Polis joined FWD.us and representatives from several Colorado business groups to review findings showing nearly 480,000 immigrant workers generate about $29 billion in income and pay $9.5 billion in taxes annually.
The roundtable included leaders from the Colorado Hospital Association, Hispanic Contractors of Colorado, the Colorado Business Roundtable, the Boulder Chamber and others, along with workforce and community organizations.
“Hardworking and law-abiding immigrants make important contributions to our workforce, economy, and communities,” Polis said.
Business leaders said immigrant workers help fill labor gaps across industries, including construction, health care, agriculture and hospitality, where employers continue to face staffing shortages.
“Colorado’s competitive edge requires a reliable and committed workforce — and immigrants are essential to ensure the state’s continued economic success,” said Todd Schulte, president of FWD.us.
Industry representatives said limited access to workers can raise costs and slow growth, particularly in sectors that rely on seasonal or specialized labor.
State officials said immigrants also play a role in economic development programs, with about 9% of recipients of Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade loans and grants in fiscal year 2024-25 identifying as immigrants.
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