
Industry Briefing:
Manufacturing is a cornerstone of Colorado’s economy — dynamic, high-tech, and diverse. The state boasts a blend of large corporations and thousands of small manufacturers driving innovation across sectors from aerospace to industrial ceramics.
Economic Output (GSP):
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Manufacturing contributed $28.76 billion to Colorado’s GDP in Q3 2024
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Accounts for ~5.3% of total state economic activity
(Source: Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis)
Employment & Wages:
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~135,000 workers employed in manufacturing statewide
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Average annual wage: $119,426 (vs. statewide average of $94,583) (Source: NAM / Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Exports (2023): $9.8 Billion
Top export categories:
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Machinery
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Electronics
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Food products
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Aerospace components
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Medical devices
Small & Mid-Sized Manufacturers: The Backbone of Colorado Industry.
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Colorado has over 5,000 manufacturing businesses, the majority of which are small to mid-sized enterprises (SMEs)
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These firms are key suppliers and innovators in:
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Precision machining
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Custom electronics
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Aerospace components
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Additive manufacturing (3D printing)
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Outdoor gear and textiles