City Opens Applications for Global Business Acceleration Program

City Opens Applications for Global Business Acceleration Program

Published on December 12, 2024

This is the 10^th cohort hosted by the City and County of Denver to encourage global business growth

Denver Economic Development & Opportunity (DEDO) has opened applications for the Denver Global Landing Pad, a business acceleration program that provides a comprehensive curriculum to help international founders grow and succeed in Denver. This marks the tenth cohort. Since its inception in 2019, global businesses from countries such as Australia, Canada, Germany, Ghana, India, Ireland, Mexico, New Zealand, United Kingdom and more have participated in the program and moved or expanded business operations to Denver, Colorado.

The Denver Global Landing Pad is an immersive, three-day, in-person program designed to provide scaling foreign businesses with the runway and skills needed to successfully enter the U.S. market. Participants experience Denver's culture and also take part in International Day during Denver Startup Week where they showcase their companies and network with the local ecosystem, industry leaders and fellow entrepreneurs. The City and County of Denver partners with World Trade Center Denver to implement this program.

"We are thrilled to showcase Denver's dynamic and collaborative business ecosystem to scaling companies around the globe," said Adeeb Khan, Executive Director of Denver Economic Development & Opportunity. "Through this program, we've proudly seen one-third of participants expand their operations to Denver, underscoring the city's appeal as a hub for innovation and growth. Our strategic geographic location, unparalleled connectivity to global markets via Denver International Airport, and access to a highly skilled and diverse workforce position Denver as a premier destination for international businesses. We are excited to continue building on this momentum and driving economic opportunities that benefit our community and partners worldwide."

"Choosing Denver as our landing and launch pad in the U.S. was one of the best decisions we've made. Since opening our doors in August 2024, we've witnessed incredible growth in brand awareness and engagement, "said Chebet Mutai, Founder & CEO of Kenya-founded, Chebet Mutai, a 2023 participant in the Denver Global Landing Pad program. "Denver has not only welcomed us with open arms but has also played an essential role in our mission to tell the African story through design, fashion, and culture. We're proud to be part of the Denver Global Landing Pad program and the Mile High City that champions global entrepreneurship and innovation. Denver truly feels like home."

"We are thrilled to partner with the City and County of Denver on the Global Landing Pad program, a dynamic initiative that welcomes global companies to experience the unparalleled opportunities of Denver's business ecosystem." said Sandi Moilanen, Vice President of Operations, World Trade Center Denver. "The World Trade Center Denver is proud to support this program by connecting participants with our network of resources, experts, and business leaders to ensure their success and integration into the Denver business community. Together, we look forward to fostering global partnerships that drive economic growth and innovation."

Over the last year, DEDO's Global Engagement team has elevated Denver's presence as a global city, hosting international business prospects, ambassadors, and foreign delegations from around the world, all eager to learn about Denver's innovative and vibrant business ecosystem. In 2024 the City and County of Denver signed two City2City agreements with Auckland, New Zealand and Munich, Germany further fostering business exchange and collaborative bilateral trade and investment opportunities. These agreements build on previous partnership with cities such as London; Brest, France; the State of New South Wales, Australia; Guadalajara, Mexico and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, positioning Denver as a leader on the global stage.

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About Denver Economic Development & Opportunity
Denver Economic Development & Opportunity is creating an economy that works for everyone. Learn more at denvergov.org/economicdevelopment.

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