June 2025

Stay informed about the latest developments in Commerce City’s business community. This newsletter provides valuable insights, upcoming events, and essential resources to help businesses thrive. Join us as we work together to build a stronger local economy.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Economic Development Week recognition

Commerce City’s Economic Development team was honored to be recognized during Economic Development Week 2025 alongside professionals from across Adams County. During a public hearing, the Board of County Commissioners proclaimed May 11-17 as Economic Development Week, which celebrated the collective efforts of local leaders committed to driving business growth, fostering innovation, and enhancing community well-being.

This recognition highlights our continued commitment to building a resilient local economy and supporting a vibrant future for all who live and work in Commerce City.

Commerce City showcases growth at Global Retail Conference

In May, Commerce City leadership and City Council members attended the 2025 ICSC Conference in Las Vegas, joining over 24,000 retail industry professionals.

Our team met with national retailers, developers, and brokers to promote Commerce City as a destination for retail, dining, and entertainment investment. We gained key insights on innovation, sustainability, and community development-ideas we are excited to apply in our work to grow Commerce City’s local economy.

Commerce City Promise: Building a stronger local workforce

Commerce City recently launched the Workforce Pathway Program, including Commerce City Promise, a free, short-term credential program for residents in high-demand, living-wage fields like construction, IT, healthcare, and ESL.

In partnership with the Community College of Aurora and MSU Denver, the program also offers bilingual support, and career navigation services to help every participant succeed.



Is your business hiring in these fields? Reach out to us at redefiningcommerce@c3gov.com to connect your openings with local talent. Let’s build pathways to prosperity together!

Cybersecurity Workforce Partnership Opportunity

As part of the Commerce City Promise program, the Community College of Aurora and Commerce City will be partnering on an application for a National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) grant to expand the Commerce City Promise program to include cybersecurity credentials and degrees.

If your business has cybersecurity workforce needs or is interested in hosting an intern, please reach out to us.

Colorado for All - Business Showcase & Resource Fair

Join the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) for the Colorado for All - Business Showcase & Resource Fair on Friday, June 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. This event will highlight Colorado’s small business community and celebrate their success stories.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore resources from government agencies, nonprofits, and industry partners, including funding, mentorship, workforce training, and networking opportunities.

DEVELOPMENT

New High School gymnasium

Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School has made progress on its new gymnasium, a key part of the school’s long-term expansion. This investment supports local youth, education, and the construction economy in Commerce City. 

Santiago's Mexican Restaurant is now on Tower Road

Commerce City continues to see exciting growth along Tower Road! Santiago’s Mexican Restaurant recently opened a new location, marking a continued wave of local business investment in this key corridor. This development reflects our city's ongoing efforts to support vibrant commercial areas and create more options for residents and visitors.

New 27J High School

A new high school is under construction at 17655 E 96th Avenue as part of the 27J School District. The future facility will offer CTE (Career & Technical Education), STEM, and adult education programs. Construction began in spring 2025 with an expected opening in fall 2027.

PROGRAMS

Start a Business with Elevate Commerce

Thinking of starting a business in Commerce City?

We’ve got you covered. Our new online Start a Business Guide is designed to walk you through every stage of launching or growing your business—from choosing your structure to navigating local permits and licensing. Whether you're just getting started or ready to expand, this step-by-step resource makes the process easier.

Available in both English and Spanish, the guide includes practical tools and local contacts to help you move forward with confidence.

Free website build program for Small Businesses

Mile High United Way’s Website Build Initiative is now accepting applications! This free, virtual program helps small business owners build or improve their websites, no tech experience is needed.

Participants get access to live instructor-led sessions, branding templates, tech support, and a self-paced curriculum to boost their online presence.

Ideal for entrepreneurs with limited access to in-person resources or those just starting out.

Questions? Email UFB@unitedwaydenver.org

PARTNER CORNER

Upcoming Workshop: Systems for Managing Financials

Businesses are invited to attend the upcoming "Developing Sustainable Systems for Managing Financials" workshop, hosted by North Metro SBDC on Friday, June 14 at 12 p.m.

This in-person session will take place at the Brighton Economic Development Office and is led by Financial Educator Michael Hensley.

Participants will learn how to organize, track, and manage their business financials for long-term success. Space is limited, and registration is required.

Upcoming Webinar: Proven Strategies to Attract and Convert Customers

Join North Metro SBDC on Wednesday, July 10, from noon to 1:30p.m., for a virtual session on "Marketing that Matters: Proven Strategies to Attract and Convert Customers." This interactive webinar will help you improve your marketing outreach, attract more customers, and confidently move them through your sales funnel.

Led by marketing expert John Saller, this session is perfect for small business owners looking to strengthen their messaging and optimize customer engagement.

DATA CORNER

Did you know that restaurant types across Commerce City reflect broader development patterns? This data helps inform future planning and highlights the distinct commercial evolution happening across the city.