Exponential Impact, in collaboration with the City of Colorado Springs, has opened applications for the Spring 2026 Accelerate COS Small Business Loan Program. The initiative aims to support small businesses in El Paso County by offering low-interest loans and an eight-week entrepreneurial development course. Applications will be accepted until October 31, 2025.
The program provides two types of loans: Micro Loans ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 for businesses operating for at least one year, and Growth Loans between $10,000 and $50,000 for companies with a minimum of two years in operation. Accepted applicants will receive a three-year loan at a fixed 5% interest rate without prepayment penalties.
Shawna Lippert, economic development manager at the City of Colorado Springs, stated: “The City of Colorado Springs is excited to continue its partnership with Exponential Impact to support our small business community through the Survive and Thrive: Accelerate COS program. This program provides essential capital and community support to help small businesses create jobs and strengthen our local economy.”
Eligible businesses must be headquartered in El Paso County and have fewer than 50 employees. The program targets companies planning expansion or investment in equipment or facilities within Colorado Springs. Since its launch in 2023, Survive & Thrive: Accelerate COS has distributed $2.1 million in loans to 94 local businesses.
Max Cupp, Executive Director of Exponential Impact, said: “What sets Survive & Thrive apart is the combination of accessible capital with real community and mentorship. Our participants don’t just get a loan, they gain a network of fellow entrepreneurs, experienced mentors, and practical skills that help them navigate the challenges of growing a business.”
Participants will attend workshops covering financial management, marketing strategies, operations improvement, leadership development, as well as peer-support groups called “Friendtor Pods.”
Program events include an orientation on January 7, weekly sessions every Wednesday from January 14 through February 25 (all from 1-3 p.m.), and a closing celebration on March 4.
Janet Johnson from Ormao Dance Company shared her experience: “On behalf of our entire organization, we are so grateful for the hands-on support, the genuine care shared by XI staff, all the presenters, and our mentor. The real time current information about access to a vast array of free business resources is life changing for us in realizing our potential growth and impact.”
Carola Rafferty from Carola’s Tax Assistance added: “the program gave me new strategies helped me tackle challenges like pricing and reminded me that my business has limitless potential in scalability Most importantly it restored my confidence and belief in myself.”
Information sessions will take place throughout October for those interested; details are available on ExponentialImpact.com/accelerate-cos.
