Denver has all the trappings of a great city: a busy international airport, a slew of professional sports teams--even last June's international economic summit. Even so, the Mile High City has not lost touch with its small-town roots, retaining a close-knit entrepreneurial community, friendly business climate and a touch of the Old West.
Top-notch recreation and a high quality of living attract businesses to the Denver area. Small Internet and high-tech companies, micro-breweries and restaurants thrive here. Business is also brisk for small-business consultants and various service companies. Still, with small-business failure rates on the rise and housing and commercial construction slowing, some are taking these as not-so-subtle signs that the city's skyrocketing growth may be slowing.
The influx of people into the area continues to present the biggest challenge, straining the city's infrastructure and school system to their limits. To help ease the pain, an initiative to provide funding for highway construction and repair is slated for the November ballot. Local schools and businesses are also teaming up to develop mentoring programs and a related curriculum to ensure a steady stream of skilled workers for businesses in the future. Considering Denver's pioneering spirit, there's no doubt this city will come out on top.
This article was originally published in the October 1997 print edition of Entrepreneur with the headline: 20 Best Cities For Small Business.
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