1+1= 3: How BEN’s IIC and DenSUN Programs Work in Tandem to Support Founders

Entrepreneurship doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes connection, collaboration, and continuous learning. And not just for starting a business, but building one that grows and lasts. That’s the driving force behind BEN’s programs: giving founders the tools, networks, and confidence to grow at every stage of their journey.

Two of BEN’s flagship programs - the new Inclusive Impact Catalyst (IIC) program and the Denver ScaleUp Network (DenSUN) - were each built with that same philosophy in mind. Each serves a distinct purpose, supporting entrepreneurs at different points in their journey, yet it’s easy to see how they complement one another: one building a strong foundation and the other paving the way for leadership growth and scaling.

Together, they create a steady, flexible growth pathway for Colorado founders.

Inclusive Impact Catalyst: 

Every great company starts with an idea, a passion, or a need waiting to be met. But turning that spark into something sustainable requires more than ambition alone. It takes solid structure, strong leadership, and a community of people who understand the entrepreneurial journey and can offer expert guidance in our blind spots.

Designed in partnership with the City & County of Denver for underserved, early-stage tech founders, the IIC program helps entrepreneurs sharpen their business plan and pitch deck, laying the groundwork for future funding and growth. Participants dig into core areas like strategy, operations, and leadership through hands-on learning experiences with ​​curated educational partners and guidance from ‘been there, done that’ advisors. 

By the end of the program, participants walk away with clearer direction, actionable growth strategies, a well-practiced pitch deck, and direct pitch opportunities with the BEN network and potential funding partners.

But, perhaps, the most impactful takeaway is the connections built within BEN’s vibrant ecosystem that continues to show up for founders long after the program concludes.

Denver ScaleUp Network

If IIC helps founders steady their footing, the DenSUN helps them find their stride.

Also developed in partnership with the City and County of Denver, DenSUN focuses on founders who have moved beyond the early building phase and are now tackling challenges that come with growth: expanding teams, managing culture, raising capital, and leading at scale.

Participants are typically founders of established businesses that are already in-market with customers and ready to accelerate, often those generating revenue in the range of $200K-$2M, but seeking support to grow strategically and sustainably. The program gives participants tailored workshops with subject-matter experts and culminates in an hour-long session with a curated group of BEN Advisors on “BEN Days” to provide mentorship, offer new perspectives, and welcome them into the BEN entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

Just like IIC, DenSUN is built around collaboration. Founders learn from one another, trade experiences, and build lasting relationships that extend beyond the cohort. 

How the Two Programs Work Together

Though IIC and DenSUN are designed for different stages, they share the same DNA: connection, collaboration, and founder-first support.

Both programs recognize that entrepreneurship doesn’t follow a straight line. Founders often move through cycles of growth, reflection, and refinement, and BEN’s programs are intentionally flexible to meet them where they are. Both programs tap into BEN’s powerful network of advisors, alumni, and partners to ensure every founder has access to expertise and support beyond their immediate cohort.

Founders who complete IIC are likely to find DenSUN to be a natural next step a short-way down the road. The foundational work done in IIC gives founders the clarity needed to fully benefit from DenSUN leadership-focused curriculum.

Not every entrepreneur will move from one to the other, and that’s intentional. Each program is designed to stand on its own, delivering meaningful impact regardless of what came before or after. But for those who do participate in both, the experiences will be complementary and exponential in impact.

BEN bridges entrepreneurs to the resources and help they need, meeting them where they are with expert, timely assistance. IIC and DenSUN carry that mission to new generations of early stage, ambitious entrepreneurs.

For more information, about BEN Colorado or our programs, please contact kelly@bencolorado.org.