For many small businesses in Colorado, 2020 was looking to be a record year for profitability. Many

were seeing unprecedented growth, and were looking forward to expanding their reach through
additional employees, larger facilities and new locations. It was a time of economic boom. But only a
few weeks after the start of this promising new year, a deadly virus began to make its mark. On January
21, 2020, the first case of COVID-19 in the United States was confirmed. Three months later, the virus
had spread throughout the country – including Colorado.
After the first case was reported on March 5, small businesses throughout the state had to make the
difficult decision to stay open – risking the health and safety of customers and employees alike – or to
close shop. While grocery stores and pharmacies were flooded with shoppers to the point of running
their supplies dry, other industries like retail and hospitality had to find new ways to reach people who
were no longer patronizing their shops. As Governor Polis issued a mandatory stay-at-home order on
April 11, many small businesses would begin scrambling to stay afloat – applying for grants and funding
that may or may not arrive in time. This documentary follows a series of businesses ranging from
banking to entertainment throughout the state. We’ll experience their journey and share their struggles
in the hope that Colorado Recovers.