The U.S. Small Business Administration has released its annual breakdown of loan recipients for Jefferson County, showing a small rise in federal support for local entrepreneurs. In 2024, 188 small businesses in the county received SBA-backed loans, up from 178 in 2023. Total funding decreased slightly from $141.4 million in 2023 to $136.2 million in 2024.
Leading the pack is Injury Care Associates Lakewood, which was awarded $6.56 million in loans — making it the largest SBA recipient in the county last year. The occupational medicine provider, which specializes in Workers’ Compensation and employee health services, recently closed on a 20,000-square-foot office building at 7456 W. 5th Avenue. The facility is being redeveloped to serve as Injury Care Associates’ fourth metro Denver location and will also house additional healthcare practices seeking medical office space.
Certified Brands LLC, based in Wheat Ridge, was the second-highest recipient with a $5 million loan, followed by CF Hospitality Inc., also of Wheat Ridge, which received $4.69 million.
The list reveals a broad mix of industries benefiting from the SBA’s financial support. Beer, Wine, and Liquor Retailers led with 15 businesses receiving loans, followed by Full-Service Restaurants (12) and General Automotive Repair shops (6). Other categories with five recipients each included Child Day Care Services, Electrical Contractors, Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers, and Pet Care Services.
This year’s ranking also includes a variety of other sectors, from marketing consulting firms and clothing retailers to physicians’ offices, highlighting the SBA’s reach in aiding both consumer-facing and professional service industries.
Several businesses posted significant year-over-year increases in loan amounts. Distinctive Cabinetry and Designs in Golden saw its loans grow by 250.87%, from $975,000 in 2023 to $3.42 million in 2024. Jakel Enterprises LLC and Hammer Sales Group LLC also reported loan increases of 200% and 277.92%, respectively.
The SBA financing is playing a key role in sustaining and expanding local businesses, particularly as many continue to recover from pandemic-related disruptions. The capital influx is not only helping with growth and infrastructure investment but also bolstering job creation and retention across Jefferson County.
