August 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

Exciting new holiday attraction coming to Commerce City

Commerce City is thrilled to announce the launch of a brand-new holiday experience this season: an ice-skating rink and merry market! This vibrant, family-friendly attraction will create a welcoming destination that brings our community together in celebration.

We are currently seeking local business sponsors to help make this new offering a success. Your sponsorship will support this exciting initiative while providing valuable exposure through on-site signage, social media promotion, and event marketing.

If you are interested in learning more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Elizabeth Schmit at eschmit@c3gov.com.

Small Business Showcase still accepting applications

Are you a small business in Commerce City looking to boost your visibility, connect with the community, and grow your customer base?

We are still accepting applications for the Commerce City Small Business Showcase, a pilot program highlighting local businesses at signature community events.

Selected vendors will receive:

• Free table and tent (if needed)
• A chance to sell products and promote your brand
• Direct engagement with residents and fellow entrepreneurs

Spots are limited and assigned on a rolling basis, so don’t wait to apply! Questions? Contact us at redefiningcommerce@c3gov.com

GED Classes – Invest in Workforce Growth

Commerce City is proud to support workforce development through free GED classes for adults (18+), in partnership with MSU Denver.

Program Highlights:

• Hybrid classes in English & Spanish
• Flexible scheduling
• 4 hours of weekly online homework
• In-person registration required

Classes begin the Monday at 5:30 p.m. after registration, which starts the week of Aug. 18. Questions? Contact FamilyLiteracy@MSUDenver.edu

We need your input on housing

Commerce City is conducting a Housing Needs Assessment to better understand current housing conditions and plan for future needs. Local employers' input is especially important in shaping strategies that meet workforce housing needs. We encourage you to take the brief anonymous survey. Your feedback will help prioritize housing types and issues and explore public-private partnerships.

Take the survey!

Encuesta en español: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QFFH667

DEVELOPMENT

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

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

QuikTrip expands in the city

QuikTrip, a nationally recognized brand known for its quality service and fresh, on-the-go meals, is opening three new locations in Commerce City:

• E. 112th Ave & Hwy 85
• E. 81st Avenue & Tower Road
• Quebec St. & Hwy 2

Each site will feature a QT Kitchen, offering freshly prepared items including breakfast tacos, BBQ sandwiches, soft pretzels, cold brew coffee, and QT’s signature pizza by the slice.

This expansion will bring:

• New jobs for residents
• Enhanced retail access and amenities
• Convenient food and beverage options for those on the go

ProColor Collision Opens First Location in Colorado

We are proud to celebrate the grand opening of ProColor Collision Commerce City, a family-owned business that embodies dedication, resilience, and the entrepreneurial spirit of our community. Location: 8531 Rosemary St.

This new facility represents more than just auto body services — it’s the result of a family’s long-standing commitment to excellence, offering high-integrity, top-quality repairs and outstanding customer care.

The ribbon-cutting event marked the culmination of two years of hard work and a clear vision to serve Commerce City residents with pride and professionalism.

New AI recycling facility

Our team attended the groundbreaking event of a next-generation Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) hosted by Waste Connections. The facility, located at 4150 E. 60th Ave, will be equipped with AI-powered sortation technology from AMP and is set to be completed in 2026, with the capacity to process up to 62,000 tons of material per year.

Capstone Academy begins their first school year

We were proud to join the ribbon-cutting celebration for Capstone Academy, a new educational institution now part of our growing community. The event marked a meaningful investment in youth development and the future of our local workforce.

Capstone Academy officially begins its school year on Wednesday, Aug. 13, and we are excited to see the impact this new school will have on Commerce City families.

What’s New C3 Map

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



Review more development with this interactive map!

PROGRAMS

Free business support from North Metro Denver SBDC

Commerce City business owners can access no-cost, confidential one-on-one advising and low-cost training through the North Metro Denver Small Business Development Center (SBDC). The SBDC is a trusted partner helping entrepreneurs and small business owners thrive in our region.

Services include:

• Expert advising on marketing, operations, and funding
• Support for startups and growing businesses
• Bilingual and culturally responsive advising available
• Access to workshops, trainings, and certification guidance

Contract Opportunities Expo 2025 – Connect, Learn, Grow

Commerce City businesses are invited to attend the upcoming Contract Opportunities Expo 2025, hosted by Boulder SBDC and Colorado TechSource. This full-day event on Wednesday, Aug. 13 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., is designed to connect small businesses with contracting agencies and new procurement opportunities, at CU Boulder – University Memorial Center (1669 Euclid Ave, Boulder, CO 80309).

Event highlights include:

• Over 25 breakout sessions and workshops
• Opportunities to meet with agency buyers and contracting professionals
• Guidance on certifications, registrations, and contracting basics
• Networking with other small businesses and procurement officers

This is a great opportunity to explore federal, state, and local contract opportunities while expanding your knowledge and network. Use discount code SBDC25 for 25% off your ticket!

Access funding for your business

Join Mi Casa Resource Center for a free in-person workshop on how to secure funding for your small business.

• Date: Tuesday, Aug. 26
• Time: 5:30–7:30 p.m.
• Location: 345 S. Grove St., Denver, CO 80219

Learn about funding options, how to apply with little or no credit, and receive a free consultation with a business advisor.

PARTNER SECTION

OEDIT: Advanced Industries Grant applications now open

Colorado’s Advanced Industries Accelerator Program offers funding to support innovation, commercialization, and global competitiveness in key sectors including:

• Advanced Manufacturing
• Bioscience
• Electronics
• Energy & Natural Resources
• Aerospace
• Infrastructure Engineering
• Technology & IT

Now open:

• Early Stage Capital & Retention Grant – Up to $250,000 (Due August 28, 2025)
• Export Grants & STEP – Support international expansion (up to $10,000)
• Investment Tax Credits – Up to $100,000 per investment

DATA TO KNOW

Among Commerce City residents ages 25 to 64, the percentage with no high school diploma is steadily declining, while those with some college or associate’s degrees remain steady at nearly 30%. Notably, the share of residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher continues to rise year over year. This trend reflects a positive shift in educational attainment that supports long-term workforce development and economic growth.