Support approved projects through tax-credited givingEnterprise Zone Contribution Projects
The Enterprise Zone Contribution Project Program supports projects, programs, and organizations that help implement the South Metro Enterprise Zone economic development plan.
Taxpayer Incentives
Colorado taxpayers may be eligible for a 25% state income tax credit on qualifying monetary contributions and 12.5% on qualifying in-kind contributions.
Application Path
Organizations seeking designation must submit a proposal and move through local review and statewide consideration.
Important Note
Taxpayers should consult their tax advisor regarding eligibility and filing, and approved projects typically require annual reporting and re-certification.
Approved projects must align to zone goals.
The program is designed to support projects that implement the South Metro Enterprise Zone economic development plan. Proposals need clear alignment, measurable outcomes, and capacity to complete the work and maintain compliance.
What this page is for
This page helps organizations seeking Enterprise Zone Contribution Project designation and Colorado taxpayers who want to understand how qualifying contributions may generate a state income tax credit.
It also serves as a practical starting point for proposals, required attachments, project-type eligibility, and supporting guidance.
How qualifying contributions may be credited
The page highlights two primary incentive levels for taxpayers making qualifying contributions to approved projects.
25% Credit on Monetary Contributions
Colorado taxpayers may be eligible for a state income tax credit equal to 25% of qualifying monetary contributions made to approved Enterprise Zone Contribution Projects.
12.5% Credit on In-Kind Contributions
Colorado taxpayers may be eligible for a state income tax credit equal to 12.5% of qualifying in-kind contributions made to approved Enterprise Zone Contribution Projects.
How to apply to become an approved contribution project
Organizations seeking designation must submit a formal proposal for review.
Align to SMEZ Goals
Your proposal must support at least one South Metro Enterprise Zone economic development goal.
View SMEZ Goals →
Complete the Proposal
Provide project scope, measurable outcomes, budget, anticipated contributions, and required attachments.
Review & Approval
Proposals move through local review, statewide peer review, and final statewide consideration.
Operate & Re-Certify
Approved projects typically require annual reporting and re-certification to remain eligible.
Start with the right documents
Begin with the official proposal form, align your project with SMEZ goals, and review state guidance before submitting.
Contribution Project Proposal Form
Use the official form to apply for Enterprise Zone Contribution Project designation.
Download Form →South Metro EZ Goals
All projects must align with the economic development priorities of the zone.
View Goals →EZ Tax Credits Overview
Understand how Enterprise Zone tax credits work and how contributions fit into the broader program.
View Credits →OEDIT Enterprise Zone Overview
State guidance for contribution-project tax credit rules, administration, and general program details.
Open Resource →Enterprise Zone Tax Guide
State tax guide for understanding how Enterprise Zone credits interact with filing and taxpayer requirements.
Open Resource →What to include with your submission
Bundling everything up front helps prevent approval delays.
Certificate of Good Standing
From the Colorado Secretary of State.
Letters of Support
Recommended minimum of three, including one from local government.
Recent Financials / Audit
Most recent organization financials or audit materials.
Current Signed W-9
Include a current signed W-9 with the proposal package.
Review Tip
Attachments are what slow approvals down the most.
Submit By Email
Eligible and ineligible contribution project categories
The page breaks project types into eligible capital campaign projects, eligible operations projects, and generally ineligible categories.
Eligible Contribution Project Types
- Capital Campaign Projects — defined capital projects that typically begin construction or implementation within five years.
- Community Facility
- Workforce Housing
- Tourist Attraction
- Infrastructure
- Operations Projects — activities intended to generate economic activity and achieve near-term goals.
- Business Assistance
- Economic Development Organization
- Job Training Program
- Visitor Event / Attraction
- Healthcare
Ineligible Contribution Project Categories
- Endowments
- General Education
- Food Subsidies and Food Banks
- Child Care and Youth Activities
- Eldercare
- Most Human Services
- Animal Shelters and Humane Societies
- Homeless Support and Prevention Services
Approved project listings will be posted here
A public listing of approved South Metro Enterprise Zone Contribution Projects can be posted here for both applicants and taxpayers.
Until listings are posted, the page’s main value is helping organizations understand the proposal pathway and helping taxpayers understand how contribution-based credits work at a high level.
Planning ahead matters.
The strongest proposals align clearly to South Metro Enterprise Zone goals, define measurable outcomes, include complete attachments, and anticipate annual reporting and re-certification needs from the start.
Questions about project eligibility or proposal requirements?
Naomi Colwell
President & CEO, Aurora Chamber of Commerce
ncolwell@aurorachamber.org
For tax filing advice, consult your tax professional. This page provides general information and is not tax or legal advice.
Build the proposal before you submit it
Start with the proposal form, align your project to South Metro Enterprise Zone goals, gather every required attachment, and make sure your organization is ready for review, reporting, and re-certification.