Executive Director
Crystal LaTier
In El Paso County, Colorado, we take a holistic approach to economic development. Our office is uniquely tasked with serving an ever-growing region with ever-changing needs. We navigate our dynamic economic landscape with a focused approach, by offering diverse incentives for businesses and leveraging federal and state resources for housing and community development. Our goal is to assist in creating a robust, diversified, economic ecosystem. To learn more about our work, view the sections below.
Location:
Economic Development Department
9 E. Vermijo Ave
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
OUR PROGRAMS
Visit our Business Incentives page to explore business loans, tax credits, and financing opportunities for small and large businesses in the Pikes Peak Region.
Visit our Community Initiatives page to learn about federal grants, contribution projects, and private activity bond programs which benefit El Paso County residents, nonprofits, and local organizations.
Visit our Housing page for information about affordable housing, financial assistance, and resources that support local homeowners and developers.
Upcoming Events
Community Outreach Event
In celebration of National Community Development Week (April 6-10), El Paso County Economic Development invites you to a presentation on the impactful projects shaping our region. With guest speakers from the City of Colorado Springs, we will highlight the latest community development and housing initiatives throughout El Paso County. Don’t miss this opportunity to see how regional collaboration is benefiting local communities!
Thursday, April 9, 2026 – 2:00-3:00 pm
Silver Key Senior Services
1625 S Murray Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80916
Webinar - Unlocking Funding for Affordable Housing Development
Affordable housing partners are invited to join us for a free webinar. Learn how to leverage Housing Trust Fund (HTF) loans and Private Activity Bonds (PAB) to support affordable housing development. Discover strategies to prepare a competitive HTF/PAB application ahead of the May 1 deadline.
Friday, April 10, 2026 – 2:00-3:00 pm
Register to receive a virtual meeting link
Event Highlights
Business Resources Panel
On April 2, 2026, Economic Development hosted a free business panel at Manitou Springs Memorial Hall for current and aspiring business owners in El Paso County.
Sara Lobato and Katie Plutz discussed the Pikes Peak Enterprise Zone and Business Loan Fund programs on behalf of the County. Expert panelists from the Pikes Peak Workforce Center, Exponential Impact, and Colorado Small Business Development Center Serving the Pikes Peak Region responded to attendees’ questions to support business owners and job seekers.
Special thanks to our economic development partners and local businesses who enrich our region!
Community Outreach Panel
On February 27, 2026, Economic Development hosted a free panel discussion at the Security Public Library designed for organizations and agencies specializing in senior programs and housing in our community.
Luke Houser and Randi Davis presented the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and housing financing programs on behalf of the County. Guest panelists from Silver Key Senior Services and Villas at Mesa Ridge provided key insights into local senior housing efforts.
Special thanks to our local partners for their collaboration!
Our Work in Action
Preview the featured program highlights from 2025.
El Paso County welcomes Terra Ferma, Wayfarer Vans, and Coca-Cola USA; businesses that qualify for PPEZ performance-based tax credits.
The Community Development Block Grant program recently supported street drainage, sidewalk, and playground improvements for the Town of Ramah.
The El Paso County Housing Authority relaunched the Pikes Peak Down Payment Assistance program in 2025, with added benefits for Hometown Heroes.
Department Accomplishments
Read the infographics below to learn about the positive impact of our programs in 2024.
Helping local businesses thrive through incentive programs and a business-friendly environment.
Benefitting local residents, nonprofits, and organizations through federal grants, contribution projects, and nonprofit private activity bonds.
Supporting local housing initiatives through EPCHA housing trust fund loans, private activity bonds, and down payment assistance for home buyers.
