HelloBello^®, an innovative technology platform that simplifies complex lending for community capital providers, is pleased to announce it has been awarded an Early-Stage Capital and Retention grant through the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) Advanced Industries Accelerator program. This grant will allow us to expand our infrastructure and accelerate the adoption of our platform, helping more Colorado entrepreneurs gain access to the capital they need.

“Strict bank underwriting often leaves many viable small businesses without access to financing. A multitude of specialized lending programs are available, however these programs are often complex and resource-intensive for banks to utilize,” explained Sherry Waner, CEO of HelloBello^®. “Our platform leverages algorithms, artificial intelligence, data mining, and business intelligence technology to identify and match these risk-mitigating funding solutions for lenders.”

The Early-Stage Capital and Retention grant supports businesses commercializing innovative and disruptive technologies in the advanced industries that will be created or manufactured in Colorado. These grants help promote the growth and sustainability of advanced industries across the state by driving innovation and commercialization that move this vital part of the Colorado economy forward.

HelloBello^® was awarded $250,000 to enhance its platform and continue creating impactful solutions for underserved communities, drive economic growth and improve quality of life throughout Colorado by creating broader and more inclusive access to capital for small businesses.

“Across the state, companies are rethinking existing technologies and inventing new ones within the advanced industries sector. Their success will create good-paying jobs in Colorado and has the potential to change lives across the state and beyond. We are thrilled to be able to support their development and look forward to celebrating future accomplishments,” said Rama Haris, Advanced Industries Senior Manager at OEDIT.

About the Advanced Industries Accelerator Program

The Advanced Industries Accelerator Program was created in 2013 to promote growth and sustainability in Colorado’s advanced industries by driving innovation, accelerating commercialization, encouraging public-private partnerships, increasing access to early stage capital and creating a strong infrastructure that increases the state’s capacity to be globally competitive. AIA encompasses five distinct grant programs: Proof of Concept, Early-Stage Capital and Retention, Collaborative Infrastructure, Export Accelerator, and Global Consultant Network.

About Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works with partners to create a positive business climate that encourages dynamic economic development and sustainable job growth. Under the leadership of Governor Jared Polis, we strive to advance the State’s economy through financial and technical assistance that fosters local and regional economic development activities throughout Colorado. OEDIT offers a host of programs and services tailored to support business development at every level including business retention services, business relocation services, and business funding and incentives. Our office includes the Global Business Development division; Colorado Tourism Office; Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office; Colorado Creative Industries; Business Financing & Incentives division; the Colorado Small Business Development Network; Colorado Office of Film, TV & Media; the Minority Business Office; Employee Ownership Office; and Rural Opportunity Office. Learn more at oedit.colorado.gov.