Dear Friends,
Our small businesses play a pivotal role in providing pathways to entrepreneurship, job creation, and wealth accumulation that are essential for building an inclusive economy and empowering our diverse community. Assembly District 18’s economy is largely made up of smaller, individual, and family-owned businesses. Thus, I recognize not just the need to continually support small businesses to foster innovation, but also to preserve the unique fabric and culture of our district and build a more equitable and resilient economic future for all.
Sadly, many of our local businesses have experienced sharp declines in earnings due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and increased public safety concerns. Yet, I am grateful to represent such incredible community-based organizations and public agencies that offer a plethora of opportunities and resources to stimulate economic development, equity, and growth.
I am thankful to the California Office of Small Business Advocate for partnering with our local agencies to provide resources and support to our small businesses community; ensuring equitable access to capital, networks, and markets; and driving economic mobility.
In this e-newsletter, you will find additional grants and funding sources available for small businesses, as well as enterprise programs, workshops, and other community services to uplift and serve the needs of our small business community. I invite each of you to share the resources in this guide with your respective communities and reach out to my office for any support that may be needed.
Yours in Service,
Mia Bonta
Assemblymember, 18th District
In this newsletter, you'll find the following information:
- Section 1: Business Programs and Services
- Section 2: Financing
- Section 3: Events and Workshops
- Section 4: Digital Guides
Assemblymember Mia Bonta & staff are committed to keeping AD-18 residents fully engaged and informed. Please send this newsletter to a friend and subscribe!
Stay connected with our office at (510) 286-1670, Email Me, or follow us on social media.
Section 1: Business Programs and Services
Section 1A: Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program
The Department of Transportation's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program is designed to remedy ongoing discrimination and the continuing effects of past discrimination in federally-assisted highway, transit, airport, and highway safety financial assistance transportation contracting markets nationwide. The primary remedial goal and objective of the DBE program is to level the playing field by providing small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals a fair opportunity to compete for federally funded transportation contracts. Learn more about the California DBE Program here.
Section 1B: GoGreen Business Program
The GoGreen Business Program helps small and medium-sized businesses make energy efficiency upgrades that can save money and boost business performance. GoGreen Business offers a variety of attractive financing products to property owners and tenants, as well as more than 200 energy-saving measures including efficient heating and cooling systems, LED lighting, fans, well pumps, cool roofs, insulation, Energy Star appliances, and more.
Section 1C: Onward Oakland
Onward Oakland was launched by the Unity Council in 2021 with the mission to foster the growth of Oakland businesses and ensure continued support for the local entrepreneurial community. This program is tailored exclusively for businesses based in Oakland, although certain eligibility criteria may apply. Onward Oakland offers free loan application services, marketing, and workshops (available in five languages).
To enroll in Onward Oakland, contact:
Business Assistance Center
3301 E. 12th St. Ste 201, Oakland, CA 94601
(510) 535-6916
SBServices@unitycouncil.org
Section 2: Financing
Section 2A: Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program
The California Office of Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) administers grant programs for small businesses, non-profits, and eligible community organizations that support and promote entrepreneurship. CalOSBA administered programs can also be located through the California Grants Portal.
Section 2B: California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Grant Programs
The goal of the revitalized Biologically Integrated Farming Systems Program (BIFS) is to provide outreach of innovative, biologically integrated plant-based farming systems that reduce chemical pesticide inputs. CDFA is responsible for supporting agricultural production in California by fostering innovative, efficient and scientifically sound practices. Projects from this program should demonstrate IPM-based alternative pest management options that focus on economical and efficacious biological and cultural pest management techniques that allow growers to maintain yields and quality.
The BIFS Program is now accepting concept proposals from June 17 - July 26, 2024.
The California Small Agricultural Business Drought & Flood Relief Grant Program will provide relief to small agricultural businesses that experienced a decline in annual gross receipts or gross profits due to drought or storm flood conditions. Access the program and application guide in your language here.
The goal of CDFA's Proactive IPM Solutions Program is to anticipate which exotic pests are likely to arrive in California and/or spread from isolated local populations and to develop and test low-impact management strategies that can be quickly implemented if these pests become established in the state. CDFA is responsible for preventing and mitigating the establishment of new invasive pests and controlling the spread of locally established invasive pests within the state, and techniques resulting from this proactive approach will allow for rapid deployment of management plans focused on the least harmful approaches.
The application deadline is August 30, 2024 at 5 p.m. Learn more about CDFA Grant Programs here.
Section 2C: Facility Improvements and Green Business Financing Programs
The Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund Program provides low-interest rate loans between $200,000 and $900,000 for site mitigation and restorations. Loans are available to eligible public or private property owners, including government agencies, private property owners, and non-profits.
To apply, contact RLFinfo@dtsc.ca.gov.
The California Pollution Control Financing Authority (CPCFA) Bond Financing Program provides tax-exempt bond financing to California businesses, irrespective of company size, for the acquisition, construction, or installation of qualified pollution control, waste disposal, waste recovery facilities, and the acquisition and installation of new equipment.
GoGreen Business Energy Financing helps small and medium-sized businesses upgrade outdated equipment to more energy-efficient models. Connects you to contractors, project managers and lenders to help implement energy-saving measures including efficient heating and cooling systems, LED lighting, fans, well pumps, cool roofs, insulation, Energy Star appliances, and more.
Section 2D: Small Business Capital Access Programs
The Jump Start Microloan Program incentivizes participating lenders to loan to small businesses in low-wealth and underserved communities such as women, people of color, veterans, the disabled and those previously incarcerated. Jump Start microloans are available in amounts from $500 to $10,000.
The Small Business Loan Guarantee Program incentivizes participating lenders to loan to small businesses that experience capital barriers. The guarantee minimizes the credit risk for lenders, and makes it possible for new and existing businesses in California to qualify for small business loans. Loans available up to $5 million. Eligible applicants include small businesses with 1-750 employees.
The Venture Capital Program is designed to create a more inclusive venture capital ecosystem, by:
- Supporting underrepresented venture capital managers
- Investing in underrepresented and underserved entrepreneurs and business owners
- Investing in geographic areas that are socio-economically disadvantaged or that receive very limited venture capital funding
- Promoting climate equity and climate justice
To apply for any of these Capital Access Programs, contact:
IBank Small Business Finance Center:
SBFC Program Manager: Megan Hodapp
Office: 1325 J Street, Suite 1300, Sacramento, CA 95814
E-mail: SBFC-Programs@IBank.ca.gov
Telephone: (916) 341-6600
Section 2E: Community Bank of the Bay
Community Bank of the Bay (CBB) is a financial partner to local businesses, creative professionals, and nonprofit organizations. They provide flexible, local business financing tailored to a business’s specific needs.
Explore CBB’s business loan options
Section 2F: Oakland Launch Lending Program
In efforts to further support diverse entrepreneurs and the businesses and local jobs they create, Main Street Launch offers a lending program called Oakland Launch. Oakland Launch is committed to providing access to capital in parity with the community, supporting neighborhood revitalization efforts without displacement, and creating jobs for Oakland’s residents. Small business loans ranging from $10,000 to $350,000 are available.
Access Main Street Launch’s Loan Inquiry Form below.
Section 2G: Pacific Community Ventures
Pacific Community Ventures (PCV) is a mission-driven lender that provides affordable loans of up to $250,000 to California small businesses.
Access PCV’s Small Business Loan Application below.
Section 3: Events and Workshops
Section 3A: AnewAmerica Women’s Business Center Events
AnewAmerica provides training and technical assistance to targeted communities for economic and social empowerment through a focus on green entrepreneurship, asset building, social responsibility and civic engagement. They work with traditionally challenged communities, which include new Americans (new citizens, refugees and immigrants), women, minorities and low to moderate income households, to empower them to make their American dream a reality while contributing to the economic growth and social capital of their communities.
The Financial Facts that Women Entrepreneurs Need to Know!
When: Wednesday, August 23, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Where: Online
Section 3B: California State Assembly’s List of On-Demand Webinars
Many of the CA State Assembly’s small business partners host a wide array of on-demand webinars (available 24/7) covering important issues, such as businesses who are trying to shift business strategies, meet re-opening guidelines, and create safe environments for customers and workers.
Section 3C: East Bay Economic Development Alliance Events
East Bay Economic Development Alliance (East Bay EDA) is a member organization that serves as the regional voice and networking resource for strengthening the economy, building the workforce and enhancing the quality of life in the East Bay. East Bay EDA is a cross-sector, public-private partnership that promotes strategic economic development throughout Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. For over 30 years, East Bay EDA has convened diverse networks of business, government, and community leaders who embrace the extraordinary value of the East Bay as an unrivaled place to live, work, and do business.
Electrify Expo Pre-Event Mixer
Electrify Expo, North America’s largest electric vehicle festival, returns to the San Francisco area. Taking over the waterfront at Alameda Point, this new venue is poised to be one of the largest events all year. In preparation for this event, East Bay EDA will be hosting a pre-event mixer at Humble Sea Brewing Co. in Alameda on Thursday, August 22. Network with business leaders and community members in preparation for a weekend showcasing the latest in EV technology and much more. Ticket includes food and beverages.
When: Thursday, August 22, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Where: Humble Sea Brewing Co. | Alameda Point 2350 Saratoga Street #164 Alameda, CA 94501
2024 Economic Outlook and Membership Meeting
Join East Bay EDA at the Lafayette Veterans Memorial Center on Wednesday, September 25 for their 2024 Economic Outlook and Membership Meeting presented by Bank of America. They will be joined by Alexander Quinn, Senior Director, Northern California Research, JLL for an informative presentation about East Bay real estate and the state of the East Bay economy. Q&A to follow the presentation.
When: Wednesday, September 25, 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Where: Lafayette Veterans Memorial Center 3780 Mount Diablo Boulevard Lafayette, CA 94549
Section 3D: Norcal APEX Accelerator/PTAC
Norcal APEX Accelerator is a government-funded nonprofit formed to help small businesses find, bind on, and win contracts with federal, state, local, and tribal agencies. Norcal APEX Accelerator’s no-cost services include one-on-one counseling, custom bid matching, training, resources, and networking opportunities.
The Norcal APEX Accelerator/PTAC serves Del Norte, Humboldt, Trinity, Shasta, Siskiyou, Mendocino, Napa, Sonoma, Marin, Solano, San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa and Santa Clara Counties.
Norcal APEX Accelerator provides both virtual and in-person trainings and workshops on procurement topics ranging from introductory webinars to Q&A panel sessions. Recordings and slides from all their webinars are shared for anyone to access after the live session.
Access Norcal APEX Accelerator’s government contracting webinars below.
Regional PTAC - Headquarters
www.norcalptac.org
1 Harpst Street
Humboldt State University
Arcata, CA 95521
(707) 267-7561
Section 3E: U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) Webinar
GSA provides federal agencies with access to American-made products and domestic suppliers while supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility of federal procurement.
If you are a small business looking for additional information and guidance on GSA and their opportunities, join this informative webinar covering all you need to know to do business with the U.S. General Services Administration. Learn about the different avenues of contracting with GSA and what upcoming opportunities they have for you!
Webinar Topics Include:
- Multiple Award Schedule (MAS)
- Public Buildings Service (PBS)
- Federal Acquisition Service (FAS)
- Government Wide Acquisition Contracts (GWACs)
- Forecast of Contracting Opportunities Tool
- Subcontracting opportunities
When: Tuesday, August 13, 10 – 11 a.m.
Where: Online
Section 3F: Norcal SBDC Trainings and Webinars
Norcal SBDC empowers entrepreneurs on their journey – providing vital guidance on growth strategies, business planning, accessing capital, marketing, management, scaling, and more. They offer expert, no-fee advising to help established businesses and new startups realize their full potential.
Maximizing Business Success With a Strategic Plan
Presented by Dr. Joaquin Wallace
Join this workshop on leveraging the Harvard Case Study method to elevate your business strategy.
Tailored for entrepreneurs and professionals, this program provides hands-on experience in identifying and creating your central issue, analyzing significant factors (qualitative and quantitative), and devising a recommended course of action while developing methodologies to address your recommended course of action. Participants will transition from theory to practical application, mastering the art of constructing robust business plans from the ground up.
When: Thursday, July 25, 3:30 - 5 p.m.
Where: Online
Becoming Credit Ready
This workshop will be led by Dr. Joaquin Wallace.
The “Becoming Credit Ready” workshop is your essential companion in unraveling the complexities of credit scores and enhancing your financial readiness. Throughout this session, you will gain invaluable knowledge and effective strategies to make well-informed financial decisions.
The main focus will encompass exploring credit utilization, understanding the significance of credit history, analyzing the impact of credit mix, and delving into the effects of new credit applications.
By the culmination of this workshop, you will possess a comprehensive grasp of maintaining low credit usage, comprehending the importance of punctual payments, establishing a robust credit history, diversifying credit portfolios, and interpreting credit scores from various bureaus. With this knowledge, you will be able to actively oversee and enhance your credit score, thereby fostering enhanced financial stability and preparedness for the future.
When: Thursday, August 1, 3:30 - 5 p.m.
Where: Online
Restaurant Management
A guide to restaurant management with one-on-one advising, training, and resources from food, beverage, and hospitality specialists.
When: Monday, August 5, 2 - 4 p.m.
Where: Online
Sign up for more of Norcal SBDC’s events and trainings here.
Access Norcal SBDC’s business and entrepreneurship webinars here.
Section 3G: Pacific Community Ventures (PCV) Webinars
Pacific Community Ventures (PCV) supports small business owners and their communities in the fight for economic, racial, and gender justice. They work side-by-side with growing small business leaders and solopreneurs through an integrated model: combining impact-first Restorative Capital and Pro Bono Business Advising with the Good Jobs Innovation Lab that propels thriving communities with equitable jobs.
Access PCV’s business and entrepreneurship webinars below.
Section 3H: SCORE East Bay
SCORE’s mission is to foster vibrant small business communities through mentoring and education. SCORE East Bay offers free business mentoring in multiple languages, low-cost or no-cost business training, as well as templates and tools to help you start or grow a business.
Protecting and Growing Your Small to Medium-Sized Business
How can businesses scale and grow successfully while protecting their revenue and brand from fraud? Businesses can leverage technology and third-party partners to implement smart payment solutions, but what indicators should they look for before fraud and chargebacks become a problem? No business wants to lose hard-earned revenue to fraudsters, and this webinar aims to help merchants learn how to protect their businesses.
Payment, fraud and dispute experts from Authorize.net and Verifi will be sharing how businesses can improve their payment experience, expand payment methods, protect their business against fraud and minimize post-purchase risk.
Attendees will learn:
- Actionable tips and best practices to boost revenue through improved card conversion and additional payment methods.
- The technology and tactics available to businesses to prevent true fraud and combat friendly fraud and chargebacks.
- Trends and market factors affecting small to medium businesses and their customers.
When: Tuesday, July 30, 1 - 2 p.m.
Where: Online
Social Media Marketing for Small Businesses - Basics and Latest Trends
Social media can be a powerful tool for small business owners to market their products and services directly to their customers. However, social media can also be overwhelming. Which platform do you post on? How often should you post? What do you post and when?
In this webinar, marketing expert Patty Ross will teach you the basics every business owner should know about social media marketing and the latest trends you should follow.
Attendees will learn:
- How to create a content calendar
- How to choose which platforms make sense for your business
- The right times to post on each platform and how often
- What type of content to post for the best engagement
- What are the best social media advertising options
When: Thursday, August 8, 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Where: Online
Marketing on a Budget: Boost Your Brand Without Breaking the Bank
You don’t have to empty your pockets to market your business successfully. Join small business experts Brian Moran and Jocelyn Ring for an exclusive webinar on mastering “Marketing on a Budget.” Learn cost-effective strategies to maximize your marketing impact and efficiently grow your brand.
This webinar will provide practical tips and actionable insights for optimizing your marketing plans. Jocelyn and Brian will share proven methods that you can implement immediately to see results.
Learning Objectives:
- Discover the essential principles of cost-effective marketing.
- Develop a clear and compelling marketing message
- Make effective use of social media and digital platforms
- Measure and analyze marketing performance on a budget
When: Tuesday, August 20, 1 - 2 p.m.
Where: Online
Sign up for more of SCORE’s trainings here.
Access SCORE’s business and entrepreneurship webinars here.
Section 4: Digital Guides
Section 4A: California Office of Small Business Advocate Business Guides
The California Office of Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) offers a variety of resource guides to start, manage and grow your California small business. Access CalOSBA’s Small Business Learning Guides here.
Section 4B: Good Money Guide
The Good Money Guide by The Alliance for Community Development is a digital guide to help entrepreneurs find the right capital to support their business.
Section 4C: Norcal SBDC Business Guides
Norcal SBDC offers business resource guides, including the Digital Guide to Starting a Business and the Digital Guide to Growing Your Business.