Businesses in Denver South have a new reason to look closer at growth and investment opportunities. Several areas within the Denver South region have recently been added to the Colorado Enterprise Zone (EZ) Program, opening the door to valuable tax incentives to support business expansion, job creation, and investment across the region.

Whether you’re a growing company, relocating business, or established employer looking to invest in your workforce and facilities, these newly designated enterprise zone areas offer meaningful opportunities to reduce costs while strengthening the regional economy.

What Is an Enterprise Zone?

Enterprise zones are designated areas identified by the State of Colorado to help stimulate economic growth. The program, originally created by the Colorado legislature, encourages businesses to locate, expand, and invest in these areas by offering state income tax credits tied to specific business activities.

Today, Colorado maintains 16 enterprise zones statewide, each managed by local administrators who help businesses navigate eligibility, certification, and available incentives.

New Opportunities in Denver South

With the expansion of enterprise zone boundaries in Denver South, more businesses in the region may now qualify for incentives that support long-term success and competitiveness. Eligible private businesses operating within these areas that are engaged in legal business activities as defined by both state and federal law may be able to access tax credits related to:

  • Job Creation – Businesses may receive credits for hiring net new employees.
  • Employee Training – Incentives are available to help offset costs associated with talent development and training programs.
  • Health Insurance Contributions – Employers offering qualifying health coverage to new employees may earn additional credits.
  • Research & Development Investments – Companies increasing R&D spending may qualify for credits that support innovation and product development.
  • Equipment and Capital Investment – Businesses investing in new equipment or business personal property may receive credits that expand operational capacity.
  • Commercial Vehicle Purchases – Credits are available for certain new commercial vehicles used within the zone.
  • Vacant Building Rehabilitation – Businesses revitalizing older commercial properties that have been vacant may qualify for substantial rehabilitation tax credits.
  • Manufacturing and Mining Equipment – Expanded sales and use tax exemptions may apply to certain equipment and parts.

In addition, the program includes incentives that encourage contributions to nonprofit economic development projects.

Important Step: Pre-Certification Is Required

To participate in the Enterprise Zone Program, businesses must complete annual pre-certification before starting any qualifying activity. This step is required for each business location and ensures investments and activities are eligible for tax credits.

The pre-certification application is available through the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) portal. Companies will need to pre-certify each business location and must apply in advance of any activity they plan to claim for tax credits.

At the end of the tax year, businesses must complete certification for eligible activities. Approved tax credits are claimed by submitting the finalized Enterprise Zone certification with the business’ Colorado state income tax return.

How to Determine Eligibility

Businesses interested in exploring Enterprise Zone opportunities can quickly check whether their location falls within the newly expanded zone boundaries using the State of Colorado’s interactive mapping tool. By entering a business address, users can easily see if they are located within an eligible enterprise zone area.

In addition to state tools, Denver South provides direct support and resources to help businesses evaluate eligibility, understand available incentives, and navigate the application process.

Supporting Growth Across the Region

The expansion of enterprise zones in Denver South reinforces the region’s commitment to building a resilient and competitive business environment. By encouraging investment, talent development, and property revitalization, these incentives help businesses grow while strengthening local communities.

If your business is considering expansion, relocation, or new investments, these newly designated enterprise zone areas may provide valuable financial advantages and strategic opportunities.

To learn more about eligibility, certification requirements, and available resources, visit Denver South’s enterprise zone information page with step-by-step instructions to help businesses navigate the process and access available resources.

Contact Us

Do you have questions about the program or want feedback on your ideas? 

Reach out to Julie Nathan at [email protected].