Renovations

Your storefront or office space might need a refresh and this can include new paint, updated furnishings, or modern signage that transforms how customers see your business. 

While our loan program can fund these types of improvements, we don’t cover major construction projects requiring permits. Simple renovations can help improve your business’s appeal without requiring massive investments.

Manage Unexpected Expenses

Every business faces surprise costs like equipment breakdowns, sudden price increases from vendors, or emergency repairs. Having financial resources at your disposal lets you quickly address these issues without disrupting your normal operations or diverting funds from growth-oriented activities.

Paying Employees

Your team drives your success, and meeting payroll is non-negotiable. During seasonal slowdowns, expansion phases, or when bringing on additional staff to meet growing demand, a business loan can ensure everyone gets paid on time, which builds trust with your employees and maintains momentum even during transitional periods.

Investing in New Equipment

Outdated or inefficient equipment costs you money every day through reduced productivity and increased maintenance. Upgrading your tools and technology can improve your output quality, boost efficiency, and enhance workplace safety. A small business loan allows you to make these investments without depleting your operating capital.

Repairs and Maintenance 

Regular upkeep prevents small problems from becoming expensive disasters. From fixing leaky plumbing to maintaining essential equipment, these routine expenses add up quickly. Having financing options ensures you can quickly address maintenance needs, protecting both your physical assets and your professional reputation.

Cleaning Services

A clean business environment creates positive impressions with customers and provides a healthier workplace for your team. Whether you need a deep cleaning after a renovation or ongoing janitorial services, maintaining cleanliness supports your brand image and operational standards. Loan funds can help ensure these essential services don’t get cut when budgets tighten.

5 Business Financing Options

1. Traditional Bank Loans

Established banks offer structured financing with predictable terms and typically competitive rates, but there are challenges. Their qualification requirements can be difficult for many small businesses to meet. 

Banks generally look for strong credit histories, several years of documented profitability, and substantial collateral—standards that newer or smaller operations often struggle to satisfy. The application process can also stretch for weeks or even months, making this option less ideal for time-sensitive needs.

You need capital to grow, but banks want to see that you’ve already grown before lending. They’ll scrutinize your balance sheet, cash reserves, and industry risk factors with far less flexibility than alternative lenders. 

Many Colorado entrepreneurs find themselves stuck in this gap—too established for startup funding but not yet meeting traditional banking thresholds. Even with a solid business plan and promising growth, you might face rejection simply because your business type or location doesn’t fit neatly into their lending formulas.

2. Loans from Energize Colorado

Energize Colorado provides Colorado small business loans, offering funding from $5,000 to $150,000 with terms that reflect the real-world challenges Colorado entrepreneurs face. 

Our evaluation goes deeper than credit scores—we consider your business potential, community impact, and specific circumstances. You’ll benefit from an efficient approval process, guidance from advisors who understand the local business landscape, and typically receive funds within 30 days of approval.

3. SBA Loans

Small Business Administration-backed loans represent a popular option for Colorado businesses seeking favorable terms. Programs like SBA 504 and 7(a) provide competitive rates and extended repayment periods. 

The trade-off comes in paperwork and processing time—SBA loans require comprehensive documentation and can take months to finalize. For businesses that qualify and can wait, these loans offer excellent value, particularly for major investments like property purchases or significant equipment upgrades.

4. Business Line of Credit

Unlike term loans, a business line of credit gives you flexible access to funds up to a predetermined limit. You only borrow what you need when you need it, and only pay interest on the amount used. 

This option works especially well for managing seasonal fluctuations, bridging temporary cash flow gaps, or having ready access to emergency funds. Many Colorado businesses appreciate this flexibility for day-to-day operational needs.

For businesses dealing with Colorado’s seasons, like facing summer tourism surges or winter holiday rushes, this flexibility is helpful because you’re not locked into fixed monthly payments on money you don’t need yet.

Instead, you can draw funds to stock up on inventory before peak season, then pay it down when revenue increases, which creates breathing room during tight months and prevents the stress of scrambling for emergency cash. Peace of mind alone can make this option worth considering for businesses with variable income throughout the year.

5. Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding platforms offer an alternative path to raising money, especially if your business as a compelling story. This can leverage your network and community support to fund specific projects or general business needs. 

Even though you need to be creative and persistent, crowdfunding can help you build customer relationships while securing necessary funds—especially if your business has unique offerings or strong community connections.