Facing a business environment characterized by intense competition and limited resources, many immigrants adapt by starting their own small businesses. The “How I Made It” (HIMI) program series showcases the numerous assets and business ventures that these populations contribute to Denver's thriving economy, bringing together a diverse group of immigrant business owners and community members for interactive events throughout the city. HIMI broadcasts immigrant voices and facilitates conversations between immigrant and native-born communities regarding the obstacles and successes they have encountered while "making it" in America. Integrative programs for immigrant populations are increasingly important, as Denver is one of the fastest growing gateway cities, with foreign-born population growth rates double the national average during the past decade. HIMI creates a 21st-century collaborative model for community development with a globalized mindset.

There are 75 unique neighborhoods in Denver with 145 languages spoken in households. With so many different groups represented in the Denver landscape, DPL has established itself as a leader in statewide welcoming initiatives for newcomer groups. The HIMI program series leverages the library’s most important resource, the community, to celebrate immigrant-owned business development and create positive narratives for immigrant populations. There are two key factors that drive the success of HIMIs: building relationships between local business owners and fostering a sense of pride in immigrant populations within their surrounding neighborhoods. Key innovations and critical process steps include: identifying and celebrating immigrant leaders; promoting DPL as a resource for businesses; building networking opportunities across sectors and between immigrant groups of varying national origins; establishing a forum for native-born and newcomer populations to learn from each other; and promulgating immigrant-positive narratives.

Over 50 small businesses have participated in these programs with over 400 participants in attendance at five DPL locations so far. The program format has adapted to meet the needs of each host library and its surrounding communities while promoting consistent themes of immigrant innovation and empowerment. Some libraries have adopted a panel discussion while other branches have created community showcases paired with engagement activities designed to promote networking among diverse populations, meeting the needs of the everyday library user and the burgeoning entrepreneur. DPL has also invited other immigrant-focused services from within and outside the city government to add a further dimension of community engagement for participants.