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DENVER - On December 12, 2024, Governor Polis and the Global Business Development Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced that Astro Digital, a developer of micro-satellite systems and infrastructure, will expand into Littleton, Colorado. The company provides end-to-end satellite mission support, including comprehensive satellite technology development and flight operations support for applications such as earth observation and communications.
“Colorado is at the center of the space ecosystem, and companies like Astro Digital advance our leadership every day. We’re thrilled the company will expand in our great state, reducing the time it takes to launch satellite missions and creating 141 new good-paying jobs for Coloradans,” said Governor Polis.
Astro Digital is one of 2,000 aerospace companies now operating in Colorado, which represents 26% growth over five years. More people work in aerospace per capita than in any other state, with 55,000 direct employees and another 184,000 Colorado workers indirectly supporting the industry. Astro Digital chose Colorado for the access to talent and the overall strength of the space ecosystem.
“We are thrilled to expand our operations into Colorado as we ramp up production of our larger satellite systems for both commercial and government customers. The aerospace ecosystem and access to talent are major contributors in our decision to expand into Colorado,” said Chris Biddy, CEO of Astro Digital.
In Colorado, the company expects to create 141 net new jobs at an average annual wage of $126,589, which is 170% of the average annual wage in Jefferson County. The positions include accountants, specialists, and engineers.
"We’re thrilled Astro Digital is expanding in Colorado. Satellites are critical to so many of the technologies we depend on daily, including location, time, communication and GPS. Companies like Astro Digital ensure satellite missions succeed while creating jobs that sustain families and communities,” said OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman.
The Colorado Economic Development Commission approved up to $$1,910,438 in a performance-based Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit over an eight-year period. These incentives are contingent upon Astro Digital, referred to as Project Skyhawk throughout the OEDIT review process, meeting net new job creation and salary requirements.
"This marks the second major aerospace company announcement in just 10 days, further showcasing Colorado’s position as the nation's leading aerospace hub. Astro Digital's decision to establish its headquarters in Colorado is a testament to our state’s existing leadership in aerospace and technology. This achievement would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of OEDIT, Jefferson County EDC, and the Colorado Space Coalition, whose leadership and commitment were instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. We are thrilled to welcome Astro Digital to our community and look forward to the immense value they will add to Colorado’s economy and innovation landscape," said Raymond H. Gonzales, President of the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation.
“Astro Digital’s expansion in Jefferson County bolsters the quality jobs we seek for our residents, while building best in class satellite technology for the world’s most critical functions. Their continued faith in our community’s business ecosystem is a testament that our regional approach to economic development continues to foster the best outcomes for the best companies in the world - and beyond,” said Jefferson County Economic Development Corporate President & CEO, Jansen Tidmore.
In addition to Colorado, Astro Digital considered Utah for expansion. The company currently has over 75 employees, 15 of whom immediately started in Colorado with an additional 40 employees anticipated in 2025.
About OEDIT’s Global Business Development Division
Global Business Development (GBD) is a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. GBD supports Colorado businesses and communities by using a data-driven approach to recruit, support, and retain businesses that contribute to a robust and diversified economy. We align our portfolio of programs, services, and incentives with industries that benefit Colorado companies and elevate the state’s national and international competitiveness. GBD also hosts foreign delegations and participates in trade and investment missions around the world to strengthen global awareness of Colorado. With a highly educated and motivated workforce, a thriving innovation economy, and nation-leading entrepreneurial spirit, Colorado is a top market for business development.
About Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade
The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire-and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT.