~ Colorado Springs, CO - Exponential Impact, in partnership with the City of Colorado Springs, has announced the launch of their Spring 2026 Accelerate COS Small Business Loan Program. This program aims to provide support to small businesses in El Paso County by offering low-interest, non-collateralized loans up to $50,000 and an 8-week entrepreneurial development program. Applications for the program are now open and will be accepted until October 31, 2025.

The program offers two loan options: Micro Loans for early-stage businesses ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 and Growth Loans for established businesses ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. To be eligible for the program, businesses must have been in operation for a minimum of one year for Micro Loans and two years for Growth Loans. Accepted businesses will receive a 3-year loan at a fixed interest rate of 5% with no prepayment penalty.

Shawna Lippert, economic development manager at the City of Colorado Springs expressed her excitement about the partnership with Exponential Impact stating that "This program provides essential capital and community support to help small businesses create jobs and strengthen our local economy."

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Small businesses headquartered in El Paso County with fewer than 50 employees are encouraged to apply for this program. It is especially beneficial for those planning to hire employees, expand operations, invest in equipment or facilities or scale their impact in Colorado Springs. Since its inception in 2023, Survive & Thrive: Accelerate COS has provided a total of $2.1 million in loan funding to 94 businesses.

Max Cupp, Executive Director of Exponential Impact highlighted what sets Survive & Thrive apart from other programs stating that "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."

The 8-week curriculum includes expert-led workshops on financial management, marketing, operations, and leadership. Additionally, participants will have access to small-group "Friendtor Pods" for peer support and accountability.

The program details are as follows: an orientation session on January 7, 2026 from 1-3 p.m., weekly sessions on Wednesdays from January 14 to February 25, 2026 from 1-3 p.m., and a celebration on March 4, 2026 from 5-7 p.m.

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Janet Johnson, with Ormao Dance Company shared her gratitude for the program stating that "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, with Carola's Tax Assistance also shared her positive experience with the program stating that "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."

Interested applicants can attend multiple Q&A sessions throughout October to learn more about the program. Dates and registration information can be found on the Exponential Impact website.

To apply or learn more about the Spring 2026 Accelerate COS Small Business Loan Program, visit ExponentialImpact.com/accelerate-cos. Don't miss this opportunity to receive essential funding and support for your small business in El Paso County.

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