We invite nonprofit organizations to apply for funding through gift cards to local restaurants in El Paso County. XI predicts that award sizes will range from $5,000 to $30,000. Funding will be distributed as gift cards (in individual amounts ranging from $20-$200+) from one or several local restaurants participating in the SPICE program.
Learn more below.
survive & thrive spice for nonprofits
applications due
JANUARY 28TH, 2026!
At its core, Survive & Thrive SPICE (SPrings Independent Culinary Establishments) is about strengthening the full ecosystem that makes El Paso County thrive - local restaurants and the nonprofits that serve our neighbors every day.
Through SPICE, Exponential Impact will partner with nonprofit organizations across El Paso County to distribute gift cards from participating locally owned restaurants. These gift cards are shared directly with nonprofit clients and community members, providing immediate access to meals while generating critical cash flow for independent eateries.
This model creates a powerful, circular impact:
Nonprofits gain a tangible resource to support the people they serve
Local restaurants receive reliable revenue and exposure to new customers
Communities are strengthened through shared support, dignity, and connection
SPICE is more than financial relief - it’s a community investment strategy. By intentionally linking nonprofits and independent restaurants, SPICE ensures support dollars stay local, relationships grow stronger, and the cultural fabric of El Paso County remains rooted in the places where people gather, share meals, and build community.
When nonprofits and local businesses rise together, the entire region is better for it.
WHAT IS SPICE?
applications due
JANUARY 28TH, 2026!
how it works
Restaurants Apply: Locally owned restaurants located in enterprise zones in El Paso County, submit a short application.
Immediate Cash Support: Selected restaurants will receive between $4,000-$10,000 in exchange for gift cards and a grant stipend for attending SPICE programming (attendance is mandatory).
Community Impact: Gift cards are shared with local nonprofits, bringing new guests to your restaurant while providing vital cash flow when it’s needed most.
Mentorship & Connection: Join a 4-week cohort starting in January of local restaurateurs to share best practices and strengthen Colorado Springs’ culinary community.
applications due
JANUARY 28TH, 2026!
Funding Request: Exponential Impact (XI) invites nonprofit organizations to apply for funding through gift cards to local restaurants in El Paso County. XI predicts that award sizes will range from $5,000 to $30,000. Funding will be distributed as gift cards (in individual amounts ranging from $20-$200+) from one or several local restaurants participating in the SPICE program.
Eligibility: 501c3 nonprofit organizations who serve clients in El Paso County are eligible to apply. Organizations need to have the financial and operational capacity to distribute gift cards in a timely manner and report on the results.
Timeline: Applications are open from January 5th - January 28th. Funding decisions will tentatively be announced by February 14th, and gift cards will be distributed by February 27th. Applications should be submitted virtually through this link no later than the end of day January 28th.
Questions can be sent to rachael@exponentialimpact.com.