Building Community. Cultivating Opportunity.
We’re here to make a difference, expand economic opportunity, support small business growth, and strengthen community connections that create lasting change.
Our Mission
To eliminate inequity by building a stronger local economy with hard working people in disadvantaged Denver neighborhoods.
BuCu West brings business and culture together to help all Denver neighborhoods truly thrive. We focus on creating opportunities for economic stability and growth while celebrating the unique culture and energy of local residents. Through strong partnerships, direct investment, and hands-on support, we help local businesses grow and succeed. We’re committed to cultivating vibrant places to live, work, and connect. It’s all about building communities where everyone has the tools and support to move forward, together.
We’ve evolved with the community from a small merchant group in 1987 to a full-scale community development nonprofit today, BuCu West works alongside local residents to make lasting change.
We unite business and culture “BuCu” stands for Business and Culture, and we bring both together to strengthen communities. From food incubators to art districts, real estate advocacy to cultural preservation, we help build local economies rooted in identity and belonging, so neighborhoods thrive for generations.
Building a Future Together
We serve communities rich in culture, not cash - In Westwood, 79% of residents are Latino and many live well below the regional median income. Our work ensures they’re not priced out of the neighborhood they’ve built.
We invest in people and place - We’ve helped attract over $110M in public improvements to the Westwood neighborhood respond to community voices. The investments blend infrastructure improvements with community assets and provide long-term economic opportunity.
We believe in community ownership - Through property acquisition, food business incubation, and business training, we help residents own—not just rent—their role in their neighborhood’s future.
Our Programs
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Educate
Empowering entrepreneurs experiencing inequity through free, personalized business support. Our educational programs guide individuals in starting and growing businesses by providing resources, mentorship, and community connections. We teach practical skills, from recognizing local assets to business fundamentals and financial tools, and promoting economic self-sufficiency. Rooted in culture and strong networks, we provide dedicated support that helps people achieve their goals.
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Own
BuCu West acquires commercial property to create lasting opportunities for local entrepreneurs to grow, thrive, and eventually own their own spaces. This community-led response to gentrification keeps storefronts accessible, stabilizes essential services, and ensures reinvestment stays in Westwood. By owning property, BuCu West becomes a permanent anchor in the neighborhood, supporting economic self-determination, cultural identity, and long-term wealth for our community.
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Connect
The West Denver Community Connector (WDCC) Program works collaboratively with resident, nonprofit and government stakeholders to reduce involuntary displacement, strengthen community relationships, and advocate for equitable access to resources. By uplifting community voices and highlighting local assets, WDCC fosters a sense of belonging and resilience across west Denver neighborhoods.
