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 programs 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 & Workforce Development Department
1675 W. Garden of the Gods Road
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
OUR PROGRAMS
Visit our Business Programs 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 & Notices
CDBG Consolidated Plan: Take the Public Survey!
El Paso County is developing its 2027-2031 Consolidated Plan to establish priorities for the County’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Your feedback will help identify funding priorities that reflect the needs of El Paso County residents. Tell us what your community needs, and shape the future of El Paso County CDBG! Submit the anonymous survey between September 15 – October 14 using the link below.
Open Survey Period:
September 15 – October 14, 2026
Homes and Communities Event
Housing preservation helps keep our communities strong and allows residents to remain in their homes if they so choose. Join Economic Development and community partners to learn how housing rehabilitation and preservation programs extend the life of existing homes, support aging in place, preserve affordable housing, and connect residents with resources.
Falcon Fire Station 4, 2710 Capital Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80939
Friday, October 30, 2026
2:00 – 3:00 PM
Event Highlights
Community Development Resources Panel
On September 23, 2026, Economic Development hosted an interactive panel discussion at Library 21c. The event was designed for local nonprofits and community members to learn how El Paso County’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Enterprise Zone Contribution Project (EZCP) programs support nonprofit missions.
Luke Houser and Sara Lobato discussed the CDBG and EZCP programs on behalf of the County. Guest panelists from Exponential Impact and Silver Key Senior Services shared how they leverage County programs to expand their community impact.
Special thanks to our community partners who support our region!
Navigating Affordable Housing
On August 14, 2026, Economic Development hosted a collaborative panel discussion at Library 21c. The event was designed for experienced affordable housing developers and individuals or organizations interested in entering the affordable housing development space.
Randi Davis discussed housing financing programs and tools on behalf of the County. Guest panelists from the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority, City of Colorado Springs, and Colorado Department of Local Affairs shared how early coordination can expand opportunities, improve project competitiveness, and move developments from concept to reality.
Special thanks to our housing partners who support our region!
Business Resources Panel
On June 26, 2026, Economic Development hosted a free business panel at the Department of Public Works 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, Innovate Pikes Peak, 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!
Our Work in Action
Preview the featured program highlights from 2026.
The County welcomes ACCO Engineered Systems, Bliss Mobil USA, and Project Tree; businesses that qualify for performance-based state income tax credits in the EZ.
The Community Development Block Grant program recently supported parking lot renovations for the Hanover Community Church.
Brothers Redevelopment utilizes County CDBG funds to provide housing rehabilitation and accessibility improvements for local residents.
Department Accomplishments
Read the infographics below to learn about the positive impact of our programs in 2025.
Helping local businesses thrive through programs, tools, 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.
