Business Assistance
What program does the City of Denver have in place to assist start-up businesses?
The Denver Business Assistance Center provides information, services and referrals to small businesses.
What kind of financial assistance can the City provide?
If your business is located in the Denver Enterprise Zone, there may be financial assistance available. For more information, visit http://www.milehigh.com/business/tax-credits.
Through its Small Business Loan Programs, the city also offers a variety of “gap” financing options for qualified business start-ups or expansion opportunities. We offer a Revolving Loan Fund program and a Neighborhood Business Revitalization loan program.
For more information on these lending options, visit our Financing FAQs.
What type of free grants are available to a start-up business?
The City and County of Denver does not offer any free grants.
Can the city support me in relocating my business to Denver with incentives, finding an office building or hiring employees?
The Denver Office of Economic Development offers incentives for business relocation, site selection assistance, and workforce recruitment. For more information, call 720-913-1999.
I am with an established business in Denver. Can you assist us with moving to another Denver location?
Yes. Staff members are available to assist with your relocation. For more information, please contact Vic Grassman, Business Development Specialist, at 720-913-1624.
How can you assist me with recruiting employees?
The Denver Office of Economic Development can recruit large pools of applicants for every position through a variety of recruitment options, including company-specific recruiting events to large job fairs. The division offers individual assessment and pre-screening of applicants to present hiring managers with the most qualified candidates for each open position.
The Division of Workforce Development is part of the statewide database of job seekers, representing every skill level from entry level to management. Click here for a listing of our recruitment solutions available to Denver-area businesses.
For more information on how we can assist with your employee recruitment needs, please call 720-913-1648 or email jobs.unit@ci.denver.co.us.
Where can I find labor market information?
Click here for more information on the Denver labor market.
How can I do business with the city?
Opportunities for vendors to participate in the city's procurement processes are available through the Purchasing Office. Information on construction-related opportunities are available through the Division of Small Business Opportunity.
Does my type of business activity require special permits/licenses?
Permits are granted through the Permit Department. Licenses are obtained through the Excise and Licensing Department. For information on business licensing call 720-865-2740.
Do I Contact the Zoning or Permit Department first?
The Zoning Department will determine if your location is located within an activity-qualified area. The Permit Department will approve the activity.
Can you help us get through the zoning process?
These services are provided through the Zoning Department. If you run into problems and need help navigating the city's systems, our staff can help you. For more information, please contact Vic Grassman, Business Development Specialist, at 720-913-1624 or victor.grassman@ci.denver.co.us.
Can you help us get through the permitting process?
These services are provided through the Public Works Department. If you run into problems and need help navigating the city's systems, our staff can help you. For more information, please contact Vic Grassman, Business Development Specialist, at 720-913-1624 or victor.grassman@ci.denver.co.us.
Can you help our business get through the licensing process?
These services are provided through the Excise and Licensing Department. If you run into problems and need help navigating the city's systems, our staff can help you. For more information, please contact Vic Grassman, Business Development Specialist, at 720-913-1624 or victor.grassman@ci.denver.co.us.
What taxes does a company in Denver need to pay?
For more information on local taxes, visit the City and County of Denver’s Treasury Division.
Are there any special incentives available for creative businesses?
Yes. Denver is committed to helping artists and musicians succeed financially in Denver. The Office of Cultural Affairs has an initiative to assist you. For additional information, visit http://www.denvergov.org/economicdevelopment or contact Ginger White, Sr. Economic Development Specialist, at 720-865-4314 or ginger.white@ci.denver.co.us.
Where can I get more information on establishing a sustainable business in Denver?
Denver is committed to helping sustainable-oriented companies succeed in Denver. For more information, visit http://www.milehigh.com/business/sustainable or contact Tim Martinez at 720-913-1642 or timothy.martinez@ci.denver.co.us.
How do I start a non-profit business?
The first step is to register your non-profit business with the Colorado Secretary of State's office. The Denver Office of Strategic Partnerships has a list of resources to assist you. Contact Mike Roque at 720-944-2552 or mike.roque@ci.denver.co.us.
Where can I go to have my business plan reviewed?
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides no-cost counseling and will review business plans. For more information call 303-620-8076.
Denver Enterprise Zone
Is my business located in the Denver Enterprise Zone?
Click here to view a map of the Denver Enterprise Zone.
What tax credits are available by being in an enterprise zone?
Up to nine special state tax credit incentives may be available to your business. For more information, visit http://www.milehigh.com/business/tax-credits.
How do I register for enterprise zone status?
To file, download the appropriate form. Fax your completed form to 720-913-1639. For additional information, contact Turid Nagle-Casebolt at 720-913-162346 or turid.nagle-casebolt@ci.denver.co.us.
Denver Foreign Trade Zone
Where is Denver’s Foreign Trade Zone?
Denver currently has two general purpose Foreign Trade Zones: Worldport by DIA, and Aspen Distributers by Stapleton. For additional information, contact Tim Martinez at 720-913-1642 or timothy.martinez@ci.denver.co.us.
What are the benefits of being located in a Foreign Trade Zone?
Large manufacturers and distributors in the Foreign Trade Zone benefit by minimizing tariffs and duties on the remanufacturing or assembling of products.
How do we apply for an expansion of your Foreign Trade Zone?
The City and County of Denver can apply for Foreign Trade Zone expansion for interested companies. For more information, visit http://ia.ita.doc.gov/ftzpage/.
International Trade
How can I schedule someone from the city to meet with a foreign delegation regarding international trade?
Denver Office of Economic Development staff are available to assist with the coordination of foreign delegation visits. For more information, contact Tim Martinez at 720-913-1642 or timothy.martinez@ci.denver.co.us.
How do we request a meeting with the Mayor for a foreign dignitary?
Contact Tim Martinez at 720-913-1642 or timothy.martinez@ci.denver.co.us.
M/WBE/SBE/DBE Certification
How do I become certified for Small or Disadvantaged Business Enterprise?
An application must be completed and submitted to the Denver Office of Economic Development. Applications are available online, as well as at the following location:
Denver Office of Economic Development
Webb Municipal Office Building
201 W. Colfax Ave., 2nd floor
Denver, CO 80202
What is the difference between the M/WBE/SBE and DBE programs?
Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and Minority/Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE) certifications allow Denver area small businesses to compete for construction-related projects funded by the City & County of Denver.
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification allows Denver area small businesses to compete for U.S. Department of Transportation federally-funded projects throughout the State of Colorado, including airport, highway and transit contracts.
For more information, click here.
How long does the certification review process take?
Generally 90 days
If my company is DBE-certified with the State of Colorado, do I automatically get M/WBE or SBE-certified?
No. You must complete an application and go through the review process. Once you have received SBE and/or M/WBE certification, your application from the State of Colorado will be transferred to the Denver Office of Economic Development.
How can I get my certification application expedited?
Your application can only be expedited if there aren't any other certified companies that perform the same work as your company. Your company must submit the request in writing and include the project name and number for the project you want to use the certification on. Written requests should be sent to:
DSBO Director Tamela Lee
Denver Office of Economic Development
Division of Small Business Opportunity
201 W. Colfax Ave., Dept. 907
Denver, CO 80202
I am SBA 8(a) certified. Is there a streamlined process for either M/WBE, SBE and/or DBE?
Please contact Diana Lopez 720-913-1714 or diana.lopez2@denvergov.org.
Is there a charge for either M/WBE, SBE or DBE certification?
There is a charch for MWBE and SBE certifications. There is no charge for DBE certification.
How does M/WBE/SBE/DBE certification help my business?
Your business is listed in the Division of Small Business Opportunity certification directory, which is accessed by both public and private businesses. Certification provides your business the opportunity to count toward any goals placed on city contracts. However, you don't need to be certified to work on city contracts, only to count toward any goal placed on the contract.
My company is located out-of-state. How do I apply for the M/WBE/SBE/DBE program?
You must be DBE-certified by your home state. The home state certification must be issued under the Unified Certification Program, and a site visit must have been conducted by the office issuing the certification.
How long do I have to be in business in order to apply for the M/WBE/SBE/DBE program?
For SBE and/or M/WBE, a six-month period is required. There is no requirement for DBE.
How can I get help filling out the application?
The Denver Office of Economic Development, Division of Small Business Opportunity staff can answer questions over the phone. To speak with an analyst, contact Diana Lopez at 720-913-1714 or diana.lopez2@denvergov.org.
How often do I need to renew my certification?
Every three years on the anniversary of your DBE certification. Every year (annually) on the anniversary of your SBE and M/WBE certification.
How will I know when my review is coming up?
Reviews are completed in chronological order, but DSBO notifies companies of upcoming reviews 30 days prior to the expiration date and 30 days prior to your annual review for the 3 year certification. Notifications are sent via mail using the postal service. If you do not receive a package, please contact Diana Lopez 720-913-1714 or diana.lopez2@denvergov.org
How can I get on the bidder's list?
The city doesn't have an official bidder’s list. Information on construction-related projects can be found at http://www.denvergov.org/DPW_Contract_Admin/. Check this website frequently for updated information.
Where can I learn about projects that are bidding or proposing (RFQ or RFPs)?
For more information on these projects, visit http://www.denvergov.org/DPW_Contract_Admin.
If my company is not getting paid, what can I do?
Assistance is available from the compliance analyst who is monitoring your project. For more information, contact Diana Lopez 720-913-1714 or diana.lopez2@denvergov.org.
How and where do I file a claim against the Prime Contractor who's not paying my company?
To file a claim or lien due to non-payment, contact the Manager of Public Works at 720-865-5711.
I am a certified M/WBE, SBE and/or DBE Prime contractor/consultant. Do I need to turn in a Letter of Intent on myself?
No, as a prime contractor you do not need to turn in a Letter of Intent, whether you are certified or not.
How do I get work with the City and County of Denver after I am certified?
A percentage of work done on city projects is given to certified M/WBE/SBE/DBE companies. Information on upcoming city projects is advertised in local newspapers and The Daily Journal.
How can I find out if a company is currently certified and for what areas of work?
Click here for more information.
Can I round up percentages of SBE or DBE participation? (for example 7.98% to 8%)
No. A company can never round up percentages of SBE or DBE participation.
Does DSBO accept faxed Letters of Intent on construction projects?
Yes. Letters of Intent may be faxed.
For Public Works projects, fax to 720-913-1803 and call the compliance analyst monitoring the project to verify that the information was received. For DIA projects, fax to 303-342-2190 and call the compliance analyst monitoring the project to verify that the information was received. The original Letters of Intent and original signatures must be mailed to the appropriate office, to the attention of the Compliance Analyst.
Does DSBO accept faxed Letters of Intent on Professional Design Services Proposals?
No. Letters of Intent on Professional Design Services Proposals must be submitted in the Proposal by the time of the submittal deadline date.
If a firm is listed as a "Broker" or "Manufacturer's Representative”, how much in participation dollars can I expect from them?
A Broker is considered an intermediary, charging a fee in the acquisition of materials, supplies or equipment, regardless of whether or not it takes possession of the materials, supplies or equipment. A Manufacturer's Representative is considered a broker. Only fees or commissions earned by the broker shall be counted toward the project goal.
Can I list a dollar range or percentage range, if I don't know the exact amount I need to use the SBE or DBE firm for? Like $2,000 to $4,000 or 10% to 12%?
Ranges are not permitted. If a range is submitted, none of the participation listed will count.
How much dollar participation can M/WBE, SBE or DBE suppliers be counted for?
For city projects in which bids are over $5 million, the supplier dollar amount counts for up to 60% of the cost of supplies quoted. For bids under $5 million, the supplier can count 100% of the cost of supplies quoted.
What steps are necessary to register a new business with the City of Denver and the State of Colorado?
The State of Colorado performs most registrations to determine the legal structure of your company. The City of Denver requires a business license, but not registration.
When and where do I apply for an FID, EIN or FEIN?
FID, EIN or FEIN are all acronyms for Federal Employee Identification Number, which all businesses are required to obtain prior to hiring employees. You can apply for a FEIN online at www.irs.gov or by phone at 800-829-1040.
What is the Denver Occupational Privilege Tax?
Anyone engaged in business in the City and County of Denver is required to register to do business in Denver. The Denver Occupational Privilege Tax is a tax charged monthly for each employee who works at business registered in Denver.
Employment Assistance
Where are the Denver Workforce Centers located, and what are the hours of operation?
There are five workforce centers located throughout Denver. Click here for the list of locations and hours.
What services do you offer?
Each of the workforce centers offers a variety of free services ranging from employment services, career assessment and training, and free use of resource rooms. Click here for more information.
How do I register to use these services?
You can register for job seeker services either by attending a New Customer Orientation at your local Workforce Center, or simply register online.
I’m having trouble searching for jobs online. Where can I get help?
If you are having problems using www.connectingcolorado.com to search and apply for jobs online, please attend a New Customer Orientation session at one of five Denver Workforce Centers.
How do I file an unemployment claim?
The Division of Workforce Development cannot register you for unemployment benefits. Click here for instructions on this process.
What type of job search assistance do you offer to veterans?
Click here for more information on Veterans' Services offered at the Workforce Centers. To see a list of Denver Veterans Employment Representatives, click here.
What type of training do you offer at the Workforce Centers?
The Division of Workforce Development offers various classroom training programs designed to meet both job seeker needs and those of future employers, including Computer Skills, Group Services and Job Readiness training. In addition, job seekers can utilize several career assessment tools at our workforce centers and attend resume workshops.
What is Job Readiness Training?
Job Readiness Training (JRT) is a series of classes aimed at developing the skills and techniques necessary to conduct an effective job search. Classes are administered over a period of one week. Upon completion of the class, students will have a completed resume, mastered a job application, learned interview techniques, obtained handouts containing job search and retention tips and will receive a JRT completion certificate.
Can you assist me with creating a resume?
Yes. The Denver Workforce Centers offer free professional assistance with preparing your resume. ResumePlus classes are available for individuals who are looking to find employment, transition to another career, or advance in their chosen career. Click here to see a schedule of ResumePlus classes.
Housing and Neighborhoods
What type of programs does your agency have/offer?
Through a number of programs, we strive to ensure you have access to:
• Homebuyer Education & Services
• Down Payment Assistance
• Housing Rehabilitation Loans
• Rental Housing Information and Referrals
• Homeless Shelter Information and Referral
• Other Housing Resources (landlord/tenant rights and responsibilities, fair housing information, housing assistance for persons with disabilities)
I need a place to live. Can you help me?
For information on Denver area rental properties, contact Community Housing Services at 303-831-1750, or Elderly Housing Choices at 303-831-4046, ext. 202.
Low-cost rental housing and affordably-priced, for-sale housing in metro Denver is available through Colorado Housing Search.
How can I receive low-income housing?
For more information, contact Sam Maxwell at Community Housing Services, 303-831-1750.
Where are affordable rental units located? Where are affordable homes to purchase?
Listings of affordable housing for sale and for rent is available at www.coloradohousingsearch.com. Also, you can contact Community Housing Services at 303-831-1750.
I am an elderly person. Can you help me with housing?
More information is available from the following sources:
• Sam Maxwell at Community Housing Services, 303-831-1750
• Colorado Housing Search
• Elderly Housing Choices at 303-831-4046, ext. 202
Do you offer funding for housing?
If you are a developer, or if you own housing that is available for rent or sale to low-income households, contact Christopher Smith at 720-913-1567 or christopher.smith@ci.denver.co.us.
For more information on obtaining help with fixing up a property that you own and live in, contact Denver Urban Renewal Authority at 303-534-3872.
I need assistance with renovation. Is there any money available to fix my house? Paint my house? Weatherize my house?
Denver Urban Renewal Authority (DURA) offers “one-stop shopping” for qualified Denver homeowners who wish to renovate their homes. For more information, contact DURA at 303-534-3872.
Do you offer first-time home buyer programs? Can you give me information about them?
For more information, contact the Colorado Housing Assistance Corporation at 303-572-9445, or visit www.coloradohousingassistance.org.
I would like to buy a house but don’t have a down payment. What help is there for me regarding down payment assistance?
Contact the Colorado Housing Assistance Corporation at 303-572-9445.
I need help with paying rent. Can you help me with rent assistance?
For more information, call 211, or contact Community Housing Services at 303-831-1750.
Where can I get Section 8 housing?
For more information on Section 8 housing available in Denver, contact the Denver Housing Authority at 720-932-3000.
I’m homeless or about to be evicted. Where can I go for housing?
For information on shelters, space availability and how to access them:
• Colorado Coalition for the Homeless — 303-285-5258
• Shelter Referral Hotline — 303-561-2222
• Mile High United Way
What type of grant money does the Division of Housing and Neighborhood Development provide?
The Neighborhood Section offers grants to non-profit agencies to help them run their programs. For more information, call 720-913-1999.
Where can I obtain information about foreclosed properties for sale?
Information is available on the Public Trustee website, or call 720-865-8641.
I am HIV positive. Who do I contact for help with housing?
Contact the Colorado AIDS Project at 303-837-0166.
Who can I contact to help me get my credit rating improved?
Contact the Colorado Housing Assistance Corporation at 303-572-9445, or Consumer Credit Counseling Services at 800-355-2227.
How do I make a complaint about my neighbor?
Contact Code Enforcement/Neighborhood Inspection Services at 720-865-3200.
What is the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance?
This ordinance requires private developers to provide a certain number of affordable homes within developments of 30 or more homes. For more information, click here.
I’m a developer. How can I obtain a government grant to rehabilitate homes?
For more information, contact Christopher Smith at 720-913-1567 or christopher.smith@ci.denver.co.us.
What are the guidelines to convert apartments into condominiums?
For more information, contact the Denver Community Planning and Development department at 720-865-2915.
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