Economic Vitality Program

Economic development in Boulder is a collaboration between city staff and community partners. Recognizing the importance of a strong economy to overall quality of life, the city's economic vitality programs focus on maintaining a diverse and dynamic economy where residents and businesses grow and succeed together. Strategies reflect goals outlined in the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan and Sustainability, Equity and Resilience Framework to maintain a sustainable and resilient economy through:

• Fostering an environment for creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship
• Supporting a wide range of businesses and industries
• Cultivating a skilled and diverse workforce
• Advancing financial security, economic opportunity and social equity for all

Information about resources and programs available to Boulder businesses includes:

• Business Assistance and Support
• Guide to Business in Boulder
• Starting a Business in Boulder
• Business Resource Partners

The city supports economic sustainability in alignment with community goals by:

• Providing information and connections to resources
• Serving as a primary point of contact for businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs
• Monitoring business, industry and economic trends
• Developing and implementing business retention, retail and other economic vitality strategies
• Managing business incentive and financial assistance programs
• Cultivating strategic partnerships for redevelopment and revitalization
• Participating in local, regional and state economic initiatives
• Contributing insight and perspective in policy discussions

This 2024-2025 council priority aims to develop strategies to support economic vitality, address commercial vacancies, and broaden small business support with new and enhanced economic development tools and programs.

• Economic Development Plan & Program Enhancements

City initiatives that support economic sustainability, resilience and equity include:

• Updated Economic Vitality Strategy
• Affordable Commercial programs to address rising commercial occupancy costs
• Citywide Retail Project to pursue retail-related goals of the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan
• COVID-19 Business Impact Studies on the pandemic's impact on local businesses
• COVID-19 Small Business programs including grants to small businesses and nonprofits
• Downtown Retail Vibrancy Study to identify opportunities for enhancing retail in downtown Boulder
• Primary Employer Study and other research to gain insight into business needs and challenges
• Research to identify opportunities for enhancing support for small businesses

More information can be found in related documents listed below.