December 2024

Welcome to Commerce City’s Economic Development Newsletter!

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

Get Involved

Help shape the future of Commerce City’s business community by sharing your thoughts on what local businesses need and the challenges they face. Your input will help us provide better support and resources to help businesses thrive.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Thank you for shopping local!

Thank you to everyone who participated in Small Business Saturday and supported our community’s small businesses! On Saturday, Nov. 30, shoppers enjoyed an exclusive 10% cash back reward at select small businesses through the Open Rewards program. This initiative highlights the value of shopping locally and directly contributes to the growth of Commerce City’s economy.

Open Rewards Program – Ongoing Benefits!

Did you know you can continue earning cash back year-round? With over 53 participating businesses, Open Rewards offers 5% cash back for purchases made locally. It's easy to join:

1. Download the Open Rewards app on Apple or Android
2. Shop Locally: Visit any participating retailer in Commerce City.
3. Submit Your Receipt: Upload your receipt in the app to start earning cash back.

Together, we can make shopping locally a rewarding experience while strengthening our community. Let’s keep the momentum going this holiday season!

Proclamation for Small Business Saturday

On Monday, Nov. 20, the Commerce City Council officially proclaimed Nov. 30 as Small Business Saturday in Commerce City! This special day recognizes the vital role of small businesses in driving the local economy and building a vibrant community. Members of the Small Business Task Force joined to celebrate the occasion.

Commerce City Achieves Silver Status in Sustainability

Commerce City has been awarded Silver Status by the Colorado Green Business Network (CGBN) for its outstanding sustainability efforts in 2023. This recognition highlights the city’s progress in reducing resources and implementing green practices across its administrative buildings, including the Civic Center, Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, and Bison Ridge Recreation Center.

This achievement reflects the dedication of city staff to advancing sustainability through policy, leadership, and resource reduction. It’s a significant step forward from the Bronze Status earned in 2022.

Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI)

Did you know that certain companies are required to report Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN)? If your business falls under this requirement, it means you need to disclose details about individuals who ultimately own or control your company. This information helps promote financial transparency and prevents misuse of corporate entities.

Commerce City Economic Development Team Attends Colorado 2025 Economic Outlook

In December, Commerce City's Economic Development team attended the Colorado 2025 Economic Outlook event hosted by CU Boulder’s Leeds School of Business. The event highlighted a projected 1.2% job growth in 2025, adding 36,700 jobs statewide, despite slowing economic trends and workforce challenges.

This event provided valuable insights for aligning Commerce City's economic strategies with statewide trends to support local businesses and workforce development.

DEVELOPMENT

New Public Art Installations in Commerce City

The Commerce City Cultural Council announced the installation of new artwork from ten different artists whose designs are being used to wrap ten traffic control cabinets across the city. Look out for these joyful and inspiring designs on your commute along Quebec Parkway, Highway 2, and Tower Rd.



Secondly, the newly renovated Monaco Park received a brand-new mural. The mural is one of three selected designs, each will be displayed for about one year on the back of the park’s new Fitness Court.

PROGRAMS

Exciting Opportunity for Industrial Facilities

The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) is offering tax credits to help industrial facilities reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Colorado Industrial Tax Credit Offering (CITCO) provides up to $8 million per eligible project, with $168 million available through 2032.

Applications for this refundable tax credit are open semi-annually, with the current cycle running until Tuesday, Dec. 31. Don't miss this opportunity to save and contribute to sustainability efforts in Colorado!

December is National Write a Business Plan Month

The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers free tools to help businesses get started on a business plan!

• Online Courses: Learn how to create your plan with MySBA Learning Platform.
• Templates & Examples: Access sample business plans and SCORE templates.
• Workshops & Webinars: Join SBA-hosted events for expert guidance.
• Local Support: Connect with SBDC, Women’s Business Centers, and more for mentorship.

New Opportunities with Elevate Commerce

We are committed to helping Commerce City’s businesses thrive through the Elevate Commerce program. Whether you are looking for resources, support, or ways to expand, Elevate Commerce is here to connect you with the tools you need.



Ready to take the next steps? Join Elevate Commerce today and unlock opportunities designed to fuel your business growth.

PARTNER CORNER

Leading Edge for Entrepreneurs Join the North Metro Denver SBDC's "Leading Edge for Entrepreneurs" program to create a strategic business plan and grow your business from January 24 through March 19, 2025.

What’s Included?

• Nine interactive sessions with experts and peers
• One-on-one consulting with SBDC advisors
• Networking with lenders, leaders, and industry experts
• A completed business plan and marketing toolkit

They currently have 50% off with promo code HOLIDAY24 as an Early Bird Offer that ends on Sunday, Dec 29.

THINGS TO KNOW

Economic Development Strategic Plan

Commerce City’s Economic Development Strategic Plan was approved in October and outlines our vision for growth and community support. Haven’t reviewed it yet? Look to see how we are shaping the city’s future and our goals for a stronger economy.