Colorado Companies to Watch (CCTW) has opened applications for the 2026 Colorado Companies to Watch awards and announced the launch of Colorado Nonprofits to Know (CNTK), a new awards program recognizing high-performing nonprofits across the state.
CCTW also announced a new partnership with TrueSpace, a Colorado-based company that serves as the Scale-Ready Standard™ for second-stage businesses. TrueSpace helps CEOs measure and strengthen the operating conditions for sustainable growth, then certifies readiness. TrueSpace was founded by Charles Fred and Jamee Knoll, past CCTW award recipients.
The partnership will provide 2026 CCTW applicants with complimentary first-month access to TrueSpace’s scale-readiness assessment and benchmarking tools, which compare companies against more than 3,000 growth-stage businesses nationwide.
“Second-stage companies play a critical role in Colorado’s economy, yet many lack access to tools designed for this phase of growth,” said Erin Beckstein, chair of Colorado Companies to Watch. “This partnership allows us to pair recognition with practical support.”
TrueSpace works with companies that have moved beyond the startup stage but are not yet fully scaled. Its research-backed framework measures scale-readiness by evaluating the internal operating conditions required to scale. Companies use the platform to establish a baseline, focus on what to improve, and earn Scale-Ready Certification, a credential investors and partners can trust.
“Colorado Companies to Watch has long identified businesses at pivotal moments in their growth,” said Tanner Moylett, president of TrueSpace. “This collaboration helps those companies better understand where they stand and what’s required to scale.”
Colorado Companies to Watch recognizes second-stage companies that demonstrate strong performance and leadership. Colorado Nonprofits to Know, offered by CCTW, will recognize nonprofits demonstrating measurable impact and operational excellence.
Nominations and applications for the 2026 awards are now open. Companies and nonprofits may apply directly and do not need to be nominated. More information is available at ColoradoCompaniesToWatch.org.
About Colorado Companies to Watch:
Founded 2009, Colorado Companies to Watch is a statewide awards program that honors
second-stage companies driving economic growth in Colorado. Since its inception,
CCTW has recognized over 800 companies for their leadership, performance, and
contributions to the state’s economy. The organization also provides year-round
programming and resources to support growth-stage leaders.
| www.ColoradoCompaniesToWatch.org | 720-722-1838
About TrueSpace:
TrueSpace is the Scale-Ready Standard™ for second-stage businesses. TrueSpace’s
research-backed framework helps leaders achieve and certify Scale-Readiness, and
connects them to capital and key resources.
| www.TrueSpace.com