Cortez, Colorado, is home to a vibrant community of local businesses that form the backbone of our economy. To support these enterprises, several organizations and programs offer resources and opportunities aimed at fostering growth and sustainability.
City of Cortez Community and Economic Development
The City of Cortez has an Economic Development Director dedicated to assisting businesses with their needs. Services include guidance on starting a business, information on enterprise zone tax credits, and connections to local, state, and national resources. For more information, contact the department at (970) 564-4046.
Cortez Retail Enhancement Association (CREA)
Established in 1999, CREA is a nonprofit organization focused on promoting retail opportunities in Cortez. Funded by local vendor fees, CREA supports businesses through customer-focused initiatives, business assistance, and event planning. Notable programs include:
- Cortez Cash: A program encouraging local shopping by offering gift certificates redeemable at participating businesses.
- Third Thursdays: Monthly events that showcase local businesses and foster community engagement.
- CREA Grants: Financial assistance for businesses to enhance their operations and attract customers.
For more details, visit CREA’s website or contact them at (970) 564-4095.
Enterprise Zone Business Tax Credits
Montezuma County, including Cortez, is designated as an Enterprise Zone by the State of Colorado. This designation allows businesses to qualify for state income tax credits for specific investments, such as equipment purchases, job creation, and building rehabilitation. The Region 9 Economic Development District administers this program in Southwest Colorado. Businesses interested in these tax credits can find more information on the City of Cortez’s official website.
Workforce Development and Training
Developing a skilled workforce is crucial for business success. Cortez offers several resources for workforce development:
- Skill Advance Colorado Job Training Grant: Provides grants to Colorado companies for upgrading the skills of current employees, with funding up to $1,400 per employee.
- Southwest Colorado Workforce Center: Offers free services such as job listings, career counseling, and training for job seekers, as well as recruitment and training reimbursement for employers.
- Pueblo Community College Southwest: Located near Cortez, PCC provides quality education and training programs, including career and technical courses.
These resources aim to equip businesses with a competent workforce to meet their operational needs.
Local Business Incentives
The City of Cortez offers various incentives to support local businesses, including the Business Beautification Grant, which assists businesses in enhancing their premises to attract more customers. For more information on available incentives, contact the Community & Economic Development Department at (970) 565-3402.
By leveraging these resources and programs, local businesses in Cortez can access the support they need to thrive and contribute to the community’s economic vitality.