Small Business & Workforce Development
We believe that when local businesses have the resources to grow, the entire neighborhood thrives.
Small businesses were responsible for nearly two-thirds of the new jobs created in the U.S. from 1995 to 2021.¹ Mile High United Way supports local entrepreneurs, helping them take the next step in their business’ success. Their growth builds generational wealth for their family and community.
How We Support Small Businesses
United for Business
Bridging the Gap
Community Investments
Impact At a Glance
local businesses served in our United for Business program.
in new capital to small business owners through grants & loans.
local businesses gained access to new capital.
Finding Opportunity In Times of Uncertainty
Through the creation of her business, Efe Isiaku learned how adversity can create new growth and opportunity. She launched Gifted Hand, a balloon décor company, as a hobby when she was working at a retirement community. It was an unexpected layoff that opened the door for her to pursue the business full-time. Efe enrolled in Mile High United Way’s Small Business Accelerator and Website Build Initiative where she received a new website and insights into how to structure Gifted Hand for long-term growth.
“I’m so proud to be among this group of people. Mile High United Way did not just train me, but helped me become a better businesswoman.”
— Efe Isiaku, Gifted Hand Owner
More STORIES
As the holiday season approaches, there are many ways you can support our community by volunteering and engaging in our work, like the Mile High United Way Turkey Trot, Children’s Holiday Party and more.
This year, our United for Business team is launching new initiatives and events to support capacity building through intensive skills-development. Learn how we’re helping our small business community thrive!
Wells Fargo is furthering their investment in Mile High United Way’s United for Business program to help local businesses thrive.
Learn how Mile High United Way is providing small business support to help local business owners, like Brittney and Joslyn of FIT & NU, adapt and thrive amid the pandemic.
Learn how we’re pivoting our United for Business (UFB) program to help small, local businesses stabilize and recover.
How You Can Support Small Businesses
Make a gift to our Small Business Support Fund or view our client directory to shop local. Thank you for helping our local business community thrive.