Our Work

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.

Our Programs

How We Support Small Businesses

United for Business

We help women and minority small business owners access capital, as well as provide business consulting and skills training.

Bridging the Gap

We help young people exiting the foster care system on their career journey by setting goals and accessing skill-building opportunities.

Community Investments

We strategically invest in nonprofit partners that deliver innovative solutions and help our small business community thrive.

Impact At a Glance

Last Year
0

local businesses served in our United for Business program.

$ 0 M

in new capital to small business owners through grants & loans.

0

local businesses gained access to new capital.

Creating Economic Opportunity for All in Metro Denver

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.”

More STORIES

Brewing Wellness through Small Business Growth
Growing Dreams Through Small Business Mentorship
10 Ways You Supported Metro Denver Families in 2024
Eight Ways to Support Families This Holiday Season
Investing in Capacity Building for Local Business Owners

How our Small Business Accelerator helped Jonecka define her customer profile, develop a marketing plan and build a growth strategy.

July 24, 2025

Last year, Mina joined the Mile High United Way Small Business Accelerator, which provides small business owners with the resources, instruction and tools they need to thrive. Through the program, Mina received help creating a business plan, setting strategic goals and more.

June 30, 2025

As 2024 comes to an end, we are reminiscing about the many ways you stepped up to support Metro Denver families! Here’s how you created change this year …

December 17, 2024

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.

October 30, 2023

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!

March 27, 2023

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.

MHUW+COGives logo
Make a Lasting Impact on Colorado Gives Day!

Support Mile High United Way on Colorado Gives Day on Dec. 9 and join the statewide wave of generosity.

Early Giving Is Open.