Business in Boulder
Whether you are starting, expanding, or need information about doing business in Boulder, this is the place to get started.
Businessweek Magazine calls Boulder the best place to start a business in Colorado. From organic cookies to lasers to wind turbines, Boulder is a great place to open a business. A community of mentoring, support and a culture of innovation help make businesses thrive.
If your business is growing and you're looking for ways to expand your facility, grow your workforce, or invest in new equipment, Boulder wants to help you. Use the menu and links to find resources based on what stage your business is in.
For assistance and resources, select the links under "Flood Recovery."
My business was impacted by the flood. What steps are recommended?
- Check your insurance policy and contact your insurance agent
- Select the "Colorado Small Business Development Center Network: Disaster Relief" link for assistance with disaster loan applications, long-term planning, insurance navigation, physical and economic loss estimations, and business preparedness.
- Select the "Planning and Development Services Online Center" link for assistance with building repairs and permits.
- The USDA Farm Service Agency provides "Farm Emergency Loans" to help producers who own or operate a farm in a county declared a major disaster.
I need to reconstruct the flood-damaged portions of my building. Where can I find a contractor to help?
Select the "Hiring a Contractor" link for a list of licensed contractors.
Do I need to get a permit to make flood-related repairs?
A permit may be required for restoration work, depending on the scope. If you need to make repairs to your electrical, mechanical (heating, cooling, and/or HVAC) or plumbing system, a permit will be required. However, if only simple drywall repairs are necessary you will not need to obtain a permit. If you know your property is located in a flood zone, please call 303-441-1880 for specific requirements.
Where and how do I get a permit?
Select the "Building Permits" link to access the "Applications and Forms Database."
My business lost revenue from the flooding. What disaster assistance might my business quality for?
Small businesses and most private, nonprofit organizations may be eligible for a Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan of up to $2 million to meet necessary financial obligations. Economic injury means the business is/was unable to meet its obligations and pay its necessary operating expenses.
The application deadline is June 16, 2014. Select the "Economic Injury Disaster Loan" link.
I am a sole proprietor with damage to my place of work. What assistance is available to me?
You may be eligible for a SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan if you are unable to operate your business due to flood damage.
Can I receive any unemployment assistance?
Disaster Unemployment Assistance of up to 26 weeks may be available if flood damage affected your business operations or place of work. This provides unemployment benefits to individuals who have become unemployed as a direct result of the flood disaster. In order to qualify, your employment or self-employment must have been lost or interrupted as a direct result of the flood disaster.
Select the "Disaster Unemployment Assistance" link.
If I do not qualify for and SBA disaster assistance loan, are there other loan options available?
The Colorado Enterprise Fund offers loans for businesses that do not qualify for SBA loans. Loan amounts can reach up to $10,000, at 7.99 percent interest. Select the "Colorado Enterprise Fund" link.
Can I receive any tax assistance or relief?
The IRS provides tax counseling and assistance to taxpayers whose property has been damaged or lost as a direct result of the flood disaster.
- Select the "Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief Program" link for more details.
- Select the "Federal Tax Relief for Individuals and Businesses" link for tips and resources.
How can I make sure the restoration and repair of my business is energy-efficient?
EnergySmart's business advisors can provide guidance on replacing and repairing equipment, finding contractors and reviewing bids, assistance with low-cost financing, and completing rebate applications. Businesses and commercial property owners are encouraged to visit www.energysmartyes.com or call an advisor at 303-441-1300.