April 2026

Stay informed about the latest developments in our business community with valuable insights, upcoming events, and essential resources to help your business thrive. Together, we are building a stronger local economy and supporting local businesses every step of the way. 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Improved development review process

Commerce City is implementing improvements to its development review process designed to provide clearer timelines and stronger collaboration with the development community!

These updates reinforce the city’s 3-2-1 review timeline goals while introducing a pre-review step to ensure complete applications before formal review begins. The city is also creating an expedited pathway for significant development projects that bring new restaurants, retail destinations, housing, and entertainment opportunities to Commerce City.

100+ Commerce City residents working towards careers in high-demand fields

Commerce City’s Workforce Pathway Program continues to expand opportunities for residents. Through the Commerce City Promise program, more than 100 residents have enrolled in short-term credential programs at the Community College of Aurora, pursuing training in healthcare, construction, and Information Technology (IT).

This initiative supports regional efforts to strengthen career-connected pathways by increasing access to training aligned with high-demand industries and quality employment opportunities.  

Celebrating women’s impact and a 10-Year milestone

As Women’s History Month in March ended, we recognized the impact of women in Commerce City’s business community. We also visited Arlene Castro, owner of iGo Realty, on her 10-year anniversary of being in the industry. With over 30 years of experience, Arlene has built a strong local presence and continues to support others through her work.

Her office in the Reunion area, which opened two years ago, is fully occupied, and with four of five offices leased by women-owned businesses, it reflects her commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs.

Have a story to tell? Let us know at RedefiningCommerce@c3gov.com

SpeakUp Commerce City returns in 2026

Following last year’s success, SpeakUp Commerce City returns with four community engagement events in 2026. These open-house sessions allow residents to connect with City Council and staff, ask questions, and provide input on key topics.

Join us this month on Tuesday, April 28, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, 6060 Parkway Dr.

Save the date:

• Wednesday, June 17 — Bison Ridge Recreation Center
• Wednesday, Aug. 12 —Eagle Pointe Recreation Center
• Tuesday, Nov. 10 —Bison Ridge Recreation Center

Sustainability & Business Collaboration

The Economic Development team (ED), in coordination with the Environmental Planner from the Energy, Equity, and Environment Division, delivered eco-friendly, compostable cups to Tasty Donuts. This initiative was made possible through a partnership and donation from Lauren Rice of Plastic Detox, supporting the restaurant’s commitment to environmentally responsible operations.



Interested in similar opportunities for your business? Contact us! 

DEVELOPMENT

This month, Commerce City continued moving forward with impactful projects that strengthen our community and local economy.

Commerce City remains committed to supporting housing, sustainability, and economic development through strong partnerships and community-focused investments.

Commerce Yards broke ground

Lincoln Property Company has officially broken ground on Commerce Yards, a significant industrial development located at 9401 Heinz Way. The 46-acre project will bring approximately 466,000 square feet of Class A industrial space across three buildings, designed to meet the growing demand for flexible industrial facilities with secured outdoor storage.

Summit Heights Junior High School

Construction continues to move forward at Summit Heights Junior High School, a major investment in our community’s future. This new campus will provide a dynamic learning environment for 7th-and 8th-grade students, designed to support both academic growth and community well-being.

New Industrial Development

Development at 5200 Oneida St. is progressing, bringing 14 industrial units designed to support a range of uses, including light manufacturing, distribution, and e-commerce fulfillment. The project incorporates key site improvements, including parking and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, supporting both business functionality and sustainability goals.

PROGRAMS

Energy Efficiency & Sustainability Grant

Local businesses may be eligible for grants up to $1,500 to support projects that reduce energy consumption and emissions. Eligible uses include LED lighting upgrades, smart thermostats, HVAC improvements, and other efficiency-focused investments.

Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis and will close on May 1, 2026. Recipients must be registered with the Colorado Green Business Network to apply.

Do Business with DEN

Denver International Airport (DEN) is hosting a virtual outreach session for businesses interested in contracting opportunities on Thursday, April 9, from 1 to 3 p.m. Participants will learn about upcoming projects and how to navigate the procurement process with the airport.

Colorado Business Owners: Don’t Get Left Behind!

A new state requirement mandates that a business operating for 2+ years and having 5+ employees must have a retirement plan. Enforcement (and potential fines) starts next year!

The good news? The Colorado SecureSavings Program is a NO-COST solution. Empower your team’s financial future today. Thank you, Colorado Department of the Treasury, for making this accessible.

Procurement Opportunity-Boulder County

Boulder County continues to offer contracting opportunities for businesses through a competitive bidding process for projects exceeding $100,000. Businesses can participate as either prime contractors or subcontractors. Opportunities can be found on:

For more information, reach out to procurement@bouldercounty.gov

Business Accelerator Program

The African Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the launch of the 6th Cohort of our Business Accelerator Program.

This 12-week program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering key aspects of entrepreneurship.

• Dates: Tuesdays, April 14 - July 7, 2026
• Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
• Location: 1250 S. Parker Rd., Denver, CO 800231

PARTNER SECTION

Info Session: Strategic Business Planning

Considering LEADING EDGE™, but want to make sure it’s the right fit before applying?

Any of the following may benefit from their free virtual information session on Wednesday, April 15, from noon to 1 p.m.

• Startups beyond the idea stage, ready to launch
• Growing businesses needing clarity and structure
• Established businesses preparing to scale or access capital

Essential Business Skills for Child Care Administrators

Offered in partnership with the Colorado SBDC and the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), this four-week series provides practical tools and strategies to help administrators strengthen operations, build financial stability, and elevate program quality.

• Dates: Wednesdays, April 22 – May 13
• Time: 6–7:30 p.m.
• Format: Live Virtual (Zoom)
• No Cost

DID YOU KNOW?

Colorado’s Enterprise Zone (EZ) program, overseen by Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), completed its once‑a‑decade redesignation at the start of the year, with new boundaries now in effect for 2026–2035. These updates ensure that investment and job‑creation incentives remain focused on areas experiencing economic distress.



Colorado’s Enterprise Zone program offers valuable state tax credits to support business growth, investment, and community revitalization in designated areas. Some example tax credits include:

• Job Training Tax Credit
• New Employee Tax Credit
• Research and Development Tax Credit
• Vacant Building Rehabilitation Tax Credit
• Commercial Vehicle Investment Tax Credit
• Manufacturing and Mining Sales Tax Exemption