Starting and scaling a business can be a daunting task, especially if you’re doing it in a new location. Colorado is known for its thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, with a growing number of resources and support systems available to help startups and scaleups succeed. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top resources and support systems available to Colorado entrepreneurs.
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Incubators and Accelerators
Incubators and accelerators provide startups and scaleups with the resources and support they need to grow and succeed. Incubators typically offer shared office space, mentoring, and access to funding, while accelerators provide a more intensive program focused on scaling the business.
Colorado has a number of incubators and accelerators to choose from, including the Rockies Venture Club, Boomtown Accelerator, and Techstars.
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Co-Working Spaces
Co-working spaces provide entrepreneurs with a flexible and affordable workspace, as well as access to a community of like-minded individuals. These spaces often offer networking opportunities, workshops, and other resources to support the growth of the business.
Colorado is home to a variety of co-working spaces, including Galvanize, WeWork, and Industry Denver.
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Funding and Investment
Access to funding and investment is crucial for startups and scaleups to grow and succeed. Colorado has a thriving investment community, with a number of venture capital firms, angel investors, and crowdfunding platforms available to entrepreneurs.
Some of the top venture capital firms in Colorado include Foundry Group, Grotech Ventures, and High Country Venture. Additionally, the Colorado Crowdfunding Act allows businesses to raise up to $5 million through crowdfunding platforms.
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Business Incubators
Business incubators provide startups and scaleups with the resources and support they need to grow and succeed. These programs often offer mentoring, access to funding, and networking opportunities.
Colorado has a variety of business incubators, including the Innosphere in Fort Collins, the Colorado Springs Technology Incubator, and the Catalyst HTI in Denver.
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Economic Development Organizations
Economic development organizations work to promote and support economic growth in a particular region or industry. These organizations often provide resources and support to entrepreneurs, including access to funding, networking opportunities, and business consulting services.
Colorado has a number of economic development organizations, including the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, the Denver Office of Economic Development, and the Colorado Springs Chamber and Economic Development Corporation.
Conclusion
Starting and scaling a business can be challenging, but Colorado offers a wealth of resources and support systems to help entrepreneurs succeed. From incubators and accelerators to co-working spaces and funding opportunities, there are a variety of resources available to support the growth of your business. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can also help you find the right location and workspace to support your entrepreneurial endeavors. With the right resources and support, you can turn your startup into a successful scaleup in Colorado.
