Denver is a great place to start a business.

In the top 100 metropolitan areas in the United States, Denver has the highest rate of business startup activity. Denver's growth has been primarily in the small business sector.

The city has shown a 15 percent increase in the number of new businesses for every 10-year period since 1980. In addition, it is home to 24 Fortune 500 companies, making it one of four cities in the country to have such a high concentration of large companies compared with most other major cities.

Trevor Heath, executive director of economic development for the City and County of Denver, said he believes that there are three reasons behind Denver's position.

"We're affordable," Heath said. "We provide an excellent quality of life and a very welcoming environment for people who want to start their own business."

Affordability is a big driver for entrepreneurs who are thinking about starting their own businesses. It is also appealing to people who work in neighboring communities like Boulder and Fort Collins, but would rather have the option to spend time outside of work at places like Red Rocks Amphitheater or hiking around Rocky Mountain National Park.

"It's not just about being able to say that you can live here," Heath said. "It's about actually spending time here”

Denver is a great place to start a business.

The Denver Metro area is home to more than 500,000 businesses large and small. From retail stores to restaurants, from manufacturers to service providers, our region boasts a diverse and talented workforce with the skills necessary for any business venture.

The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce is here to help you navigate the regulatory requirements and business climate in Colorado. We can also help connect you with resources within the region that will assist your business success.

Whether you are looking for funding options, assistance with marketing and branding or other resources, we are here to help.

We offer many services that can help companies start or grow including access to a broad network of local leaders, information on industry trends and best practices, educational opportunities and mentoring programs. Our advocacy team provides a voice for businesses in the community as well as support in dealing with regulations and policies impacting your company.