Start by completing the Pre-Assessment. This helps determine fit and ensures the program is the right next step for your business.

Applications are reviewed based on:

• Clarity and strength of your responses

• Supporting documentation

• A well-defined plan for how the funds will be used
  
  

Strong applicants clearly show how the funding will move their business forward.

The best applications include:

• A clear, specific use of funds

• Supporting financial documentation

• A practical roadmap for growth
  
  

If you can clearly explain how the funding impacts your business, you’re in a strong position.

Applications For Summer 2026 Program Due May 1st, 2026.

• Most recent business tax return
  

• Year-to-date Profit & Loss and Balance Sheet
  

• Prior year P&L and Balance Sheet
  

• Business Plan (company, market, strategy, operations)
  

• Letter of recommendation or character reference

Growth Loan Applicants:

• YTD and prior year financials (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow)
  

• Most recent business tax return
  

Micro Loan / Startup Applicants:

• 2–3 years of cash flow projections
  

• Founder bios or resumes
  

• Revenue/expense summary (minimum 6 months)
  

• Startup budget
  

• Evidence of customer traction

• Corporations: Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, Certificate of Good Standing
  

• LLCs: Articles of Organization, Operating Agreement, Certificate of Good Standing
  

• Partnerships: Partnership Agreement
  
  

• Quotes or purchase orders
  

• Contracts or agreements
  

• Lease or franchise documents
  

• Business valuation
  

• Personal financial statements
  
  

• Located in the City of Colorado Springs
  

• 1–50 full-time employees
  

• Small businesses or eligible nonprofits (501(c)(3) or 501(c)(19))
  

• In good standing with the State of Colorado
  
  

• Payday lenders or pawn shops
  

• Adult entertainment businesses
  

• Passive real estate investments
  

• Marijuana-related businesses
  

• Home-based businesses without proper zoning
  
  

Loan amounts range from $1,000 to $50,000, depending on your needs and application strength.

• Year 1: 5%
  

• Year 2: 5%
  

• Year 3: 5%
  

• No collateral required
  

• No prepayment penalty
  
  

• Hiring, training, or retaining employees
  

• Equipment, inventory, or supplies
  

• Marketing and sales
  

• Business expansion or acquisition
  

• Working capital
  

• Leasehold improvements
  

• Commercial real estate
  
  

• Personal expenses or non-business debt
  

• Personal credit card payoff
  

• Political activities
  

• Taxes or fines
  

• Personal purchases
  

• Business relocation

No. Participation in the 8-week program is required to receive funding.

• Financial foundations
  

• Marketing and storytelling
  

• Operations and systems
  

• Hiring and team development
  

• Productivity and leadership
  

• Community engagement
  
  

Expect 3–5 hours per week for 8 weeks, including:

• In-person sessions
  

• Online learning
  

• Mentor check-ins
  
  

• Wednesdays, 1:00–3:00 PM
  

• Exponential Impact office
  

• Offered twice per year (Jan/Feb and Jul/Aug)

No. This is a competitive program.

Participants consistently:

• Strengthen their business foundation
  

• Improve operations and revenue
  

• Build long-term relationships and support systems