Applications Open for the Denver Legacy Business Program

Longstanding local small businesses are invited to apply by September 25, 2026.

Denver, CO - August 26, 2026 - Denver Economic Development & Opportunity (DEDO) has opened applications for the Denver Legacy Business Program. This program is designed to recognize and support longstanding small, locally owned businesses in the City and County of Denver. Designated businesses are listed on the Denver Legacy Business Registry, receive Denver Legacy Business marketing and branding tools, promotional efforts, get tailored support and referrals to available local resources and join a network of longstanding businesses across the city. The deadline to apply is Friday, September 25, 2026, at 5 p.m.

A Denver Legacy Business is a longstanding, independent business that has contributed to community character. Among other criteria, the business has operated for more than ten years, has annual gross revenue between $30,000 and $15 million, and currently has a brick-and-mortar location in the City and County of Denver. In 2024, the program was awarded the Bronze Excellence Award from the International Economic Development Council. Businesses that meet eligibility criteria are invited to apply. An information session and application assistance is also available. Interested applicants can learn more here.

"Local businesses shape the character of our neighborhoods, create jobs, and contribute to the can-do energy that defines Denver," said Mayor Mike Johnston. "These longstanding businesses are as much a part of our identity as they are our economy, and I'm proud to honor the essential role they play in keeping our city strong and vibrant."

"We are excited to expand Denver Legacy Business designations and open another round of applications for local businesses that have served Denver residents for years," said Adeeb Khan, Executive Director of Denver Economic Development & Opportunity. "With 104 businesses designated across 49 Denver neighborhoods and a median tenure of 22 years, we are proud to grow this recognition program and invite more businesses to apply."

What Denver Legacy Businesses Are Saying:

"Kokoro Restaurant is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Our success is built on the backbone of a vibrant Denver business community," said Mas Torito, Owner of Kokoro Restaurant. "The Denver Legacy Business Program is a great example of how we work together to develop a strong and resilient community by supporting the businesses that sustain those same communities. Joining the Denver Legacy Business Program is a great way to develop the well-rooted understanding that a strong community is built around strong local businesses."

"Small businesses are part of the fabric of our neighborhoods. They're where people gather, where relationships are built, and where a city develops its character," said Loren Martinez, Director of Operations of Little Man Ice Cream. "We're incredibly grateful to be in a city that doesn't just talk about the importance of local business but tangibly invests in helping those businesses endure. Recognition through the Denver Legacy Business Program is meaningful, but what makes this program special is the substance behind it-- the resources, support and connections that help longstanding businesses remain strong, adapt, and continue serving their communities for generations. At Little Man, we're proud to be recognized as a Legacy Business, but even more grateful to know the City of Denver is invested in helping its local businesses build the next chapter of their legacy."

"In our first year as a Denver Legacy Business, YellowDog has already seen so much value in the support of the legacy business community and resources such as training and mentorship that the designation unlocks," said, Jenny Mulligan, President and Partner of YellowDog.

Small businesses can find eligibility criteria, and details on the information session and application assistance here.

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