Rapid Capital Readiness Program

Now accepting applications for next cohort beginning Summer 2026.

The Inclusive Impact Catalyst (IIC) gives traditionally underserved Denver tech founders the mentorship, knowledge, and support to build an investor-ready pitch.

Man shaking hands with business associates

In just 3 months, participants receive:

  • Personalized 1:1 coaching and mentorship from seasoned advisors

  • A business assessment and hands-on support to strengthen their business plans and prepare for investors

  • Expert guidance on pitch deck development and refinement

  • Direct pitch opportunities with the BEN network

All at no cost.

Apply Now

What is the IIC?

The no-cost three-month, cohort-based program offers founders direct access to experienced advisors, curated educational partners, and practical, hands-on learning experiences tailored to prepare them for funding and growth. By addressing persistent barriers to capital and business education, the Inclusive Impact Catalyst aims to build a stronger ecosystem that empowers diverse entrepreneurs to thrive and lead.

What IIC Participants Are Saying

Ready to apply?

Complete the IIC Program Intake Form on Startup Space. The next cohort begins April 9, 2026.

Program Intake Form

See the Program Flyer

  • IIC offers tailored support for tech-industry small businesses, specifically for underrepresented tech businesses who have historically had less access to capital and business resources.

  • The IIC is offered at no cost to participants.

  • The IIC is a quarterly program. For approximately three months, participants can expect:

    • Bi-weekly cohort meetings packed with valuable insights from curated educational partners

    • Regular 1:1 meetings with their designated expert advisor(s)

    • Independent work on assigned materials through partner platforms like MatrixOwl and Pitch Creator

    For more details about the IIC curriculum and educational partners, click here.

  • Inside the IIC, participants gain:

    • A clearer understanding of their business’s strengths and growth opportunities

    • Practical tools to strengthen their operations and financial readiness

    • Expert feedback to refine their brand, marketing, and customer strategy

    • A polished pitch and investment summary

    • Connections to advisors, mentors, and a supportive entrepreneurial network

  • A business must meet all of the following criteria to be eligible for participation in the Inclusive Impact Catalyst Program:

    • Be a tech-industry business, defined as offering goods or services related to the research, development, or distribution of software, hardware, semiconductors, networking, or internet-based technologies, and focused on innovation and growth.

    • Be physically located and actively operating within the City and County of Denver.

    • Be registered and in good standing with the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office.

    • Be in compliance with all local, state, and federal taxing, permitting, and licensing authorities.

    • Be engaged in business activities that are legal under both federal and Colorado state law.

    • Note: Due to federal funding, retail or wholesale cannabis businesses are not eligible.

    • Be able to provide financial records and meet the technical requirements outlined by the program.

  • Bridge Entrepreneurs Network (BEN) Colorado is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

    We bridge Colorado entrepreneurs with the resources, education, and community they need to scale.

    We believe when leaders are supported personally and professionally, they’re better equipped to grow businesses, uplift communities, and drive positive change.

  • We’d be happy to answer any additional questions you have. Please contact iic@bencolorado.org or submit an inquiry here.

  • Please join our mailing list below!

Frequently Asked Questions