New Denver-Based Mobile App Connects Businesses with Workers on Demand

Unemployment in Colorado is at a record low yet there continues to be growth in the job market, making it a great state to be a freelancer. Across the country, more than 16 million Americans are participating in the gig economy — taking control of their work schedules, whether freelancing full time or supplementing their income with on-demand job opportunities, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

A Denver-based app, GigSmart, has launched to connect potential workers with job opportunities. Businesses, charities and individuals who are in need of urgent on-demand labor needs can connect with workers looking to earn money, gain experience, volunteer or pursue their passion. GigSmart serves all industries and worker skills. Founded in 2018, the app is available on Apple and GooglePlay stores and has launched in Denver, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, Indianapolis, Lexington and Louisville.

Workers can create a profile using a range of more than 3,000 pre-loaded job skills and set a pay rate for each skill. An employer can search by skill, review employee profiles and send a gig request to the worker of choice, who may then accept or decline the request. Upon acceptance, the worker proceeds to the gig site or begins working remotely, depending on the job’s specifications. After completing the gig, the worker is paid directly through the app.

In Colorado, one arena in which GigSmart is being used is in seasonal businesses in the travel, tourism and hospitality industries — think ski resorts, for example. Like an Uber for business staffing, the app allows employers more flexible scheduling and broad access to more workers to accommodate peak season and special event demands. In the ski industry, resorts are frequently in need of food and beverage workers, parking attendants, rental shop staff, housekeeping and ticketing booth staff—perfect for the gig economy freelancer who doesn’t want to miss a powder day.