Business Acceleration Grant

The Business Acceleration Grant is a local funding initiative by the City of Englewood aimed at bolstering small, locally owned businesses through capital investments. This grant program supports businesses already operating within Englewood city limits, with the goal of helping them expand operations, improve facilities, or strengthen business retention. Grants of up to $10,000 are offered to qualifying businesses for eligible physical or capital improvements, which must be directly related to long-term enhancements requiring a building permit. The grant is part of Englewood's broader strategy to support economic vitality and community development by ensuring local businesses have access to the resources needed to thrive. Eligible applicants must have been operational in Englewood for at least two years. For businesses that lease their commercial space, at least two years must remain on the lease agreement at the time of application. Applicants must have a physical presence in a commercial or industrial district within the city. In addition to having a current City of Englewood sales and use tax license, businesses must possess up-to-date business plans and financial statements. These may be reviewed confidentially by advisors from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), with participation in a business planning workshop also required. Funds from the grant may be used for permanent improvements such as ADA-compliant restrooms, HVAC upgrades, energy efficiency installations, electrical service improvements, architectural and engineering fees associated with the permitted work, or other site or structural enhancements that require building permits. Notably, expenditures that are considered maintenance, temporary in nature, or related to regulatory compliance are not eligible. Ineligible uses specifically include signage, equipment, inventory, marketing, website development, and related fees. To apply, businesses must first contact Englewood’s economic development team at [email protected] or 303.762.2599 to discuss the proposed project. Required documentation includes a completed application, tax license, and a detailed letter from the business owner outlining how the funds will support business expansion, such as by increasing employment or revenue. Upon submission, applications are reviewed in partnership with the SBDC for eligibility and investment review. Approved applicants will receive a written grant commitment outlining the award terms. Projects must commence within 45 days of receiving the grant commitment and must be completed within the same calendar year. This is a reimbursement grant, meaning businesses must provide receipts for eligible expenses to obtain funding. Grant funding is limited and not all applications may be awarded; grants may cover partial or full costs up to the $10,000 maximum.

Ensure your expansion plan is clearly linked to increased employment or revenue; initiate project within 45 days and complete within same year to remain eligible.