The Colorado Economic Development Commission in September recognized Crow Canyon Archaeological Center as an Enterprise Zone Contribution Project, paving the way for donors to utilize tax credits.

Cortez’s Crow Canyon strives to use the Enterprise Zone funds for multiple job training programs that include professional development to Mesa Verde National Park’s staff, paid internships for graduate students, Native Scholar in-residence programs for young tribal adults and field programs for undergraduate students.

According to a news release, the appointment permits Crow Canyon donors of $250 or more to claim a 25% state tax credit and a 12.5% state tax credit on in-kind donations.

The credit is in conjunction with the federal tax deduction for contributing to any nonprofit organization.

“Crow Canyon benefits the region’s economy in many ways,” said Terry Blair-Burton, Enterprise Zone Administrator. “They are unique in that they train archaeologists who, after leaving Crow Canyon, continue to work regionally at local schools, national parks and cultural facilities.”

Twenty-five Enterprise Zone projects exist in Southwest Colorado, including the Cortez Cultural Center and the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument.