Start by completing the Pre-Assessment. This helps determine fit and ensures the program is the right next step for your business. You can review a PDF version of the Full Small Business Loan Application.

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. Before you apply, review the rubric our committee uses to score applications. Understanding these criteria will help you prepare a stronger application. Click here to view the Evaluation Rubric.

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

  We have provided these templates and examples for you to use as part of your application process:

  Balance Sheet Template

  Cash Flow Template

  Profit and Loss Template

  Character Reference Template

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