DENVER — Countless businesses across Colorado have had to close because of the novel coronavirus pandemic, but that loss has presented a unique opportunity for other young business owners.
"A lot of my own mentors that have backed me in the past are kind of throwing their hands up and it’s too risky for them, so I think for young people though, the reality is there is no cheaper point of entry. There’s never been a cheaper entry price to business than right now," said owner of new Ghost Coffee Saloon, Josh Schmitz.
Josh Schmitz currently owns Bellwehter on Colfax. He’s one of the people going into Larimer Square with four businesses, including Ghost Coffee Saloon.
Around the corner where Euclid Hall used to be, another new vibrant concept is taking shape.
"I like to say it’s kind of like looking at the streets of Hong Kong; when you’re walking around you’re just....—your eyes are kind of looking everywhere and there’s so much going on," said owner of Bao Brewhouse, Michael Swift.
Swift says Bao Brewhouse should open within a month. A once in a lifetime opportunity.
"If the pandemic wouldn’t have happened, I don’t know if I would have been able to take over this great space and have the opportunity to do things that normally I couldn’t afford to do or wouldn’t be able to do," said Swift.
"It’s a completely new Larimer Square," said Schmitz.
A new look, and a new chapter for eager business owners looking to switch up a historic Denver block.