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California’s New Digital Products Tax: What Software Sellers and Buyers Need to Know Before 2027

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:05:10 GMT

Beginning January 1, 2027, California sales and use tax will generally apply to prewritten software delivered electronically or accessed remotely, including many Software-as-a-Service subscriptions.

CALIFORNIA — If your business sells software, provides access to an online platform or pays for software subscriptions, a tax change belongs on your 2027 planning list.

Under Senate Bill 122 , signed into law June 29, 2026, California is expanding the sales and use tax definition of tangible personal property to include certain digital products and associated copyright or patent interests. That means retail sales of covered products in California—and covered products purchased from a retailer for storage, use or other consumption in California—may be taxable beginning January 1, 2027 .

The change generally affects sellers of prewritten software, SaaS providers, businesses that license or provide remote access to prewritten software, and the customers who buy those products.

What counts as a digital product?

For this law, a digital product is prewritten computer software delivered on physical storage media, transferred electronically or accessed remotely. Prewritten software is software held for general or repeated sale or lease. It can qualify even if it was originally developed for a particular customer or for a company’s own use. A combination of two or more prewritten programs can also qualify.

What is outside this definition?

The law does not classify every digital purchase as a taxable digital product. The following are excluded from its digital product definition:

Digital assets, such as cryptocurrency
Digital audio works, such as music, spoken recordings and ringtones
Digital audiovisual works, such as movies and videos with sound
Digital books, or eBooks
Digital infrastructure, such as cloud platforms customers use to create, deploy or run their own software applications
Digital video game products
Digital visual works, such as computer-generated artwork

The law also provides exemptions for custom computer software , digital products representing a service other than SaaS, digital products transferred with reproduction and distribution rights, and digital products purchased solely for use outside California. Businesses should review the details of a transaction before treating it as excluded or exempt.

A $5 million rule for certain large purchases

In some transactions, responsibility for paying the tax can shift from the retailer to the purchaser. The rule concerns a retailer’s aggregate gross receipts from digital products sold to the same purchaser that are transferred electronically or accessed remotely.

For 2027 , the threshold is more than $5 million in that calendar year . Beginning January 1, 2028 , the test looks at whether those receipts exceeded $5 million in the current or preceding calendar year. When the rule applies, the purchaser may need a Use Tax Direct Payment Permit and may have to report and pay the tax directly to the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA).

Location matters for local taxes

For digital products transferred electronically or accessed remotely, the place of sale for local and district tax reporting is generally the customer’s address. The place of use is where the person accessing the product is located. That distinction matters when a company’s billing address and its software users are in different places. CDTFA explains the rules in its Tax Guide for Retailers and Purchasers of Digital Products .

What sellers need to do

California digital product sellers that are not already registered with CDTFA may need to obtain a seller’s permit , file sales and use tax returns, and report and pay tax on taxable retail sales.

Out-of-state sellers that are engaged in business in California under Revenue and Taxation Code section 6203 may need a Certificate of Registration—Use Tax . They would collect and report use tax on covered sales to California consumers and pay it to CDTFA. Registration is available through CDTFA Online Services .

The UBJ takeaway: Software sellers can use the months before January 2027 to review their products, customer locations, invoicing and registration needs. Buyers can review their software agreements and ask vendors how the new tax will appear on invoices. For the definitions, exemptions and reporting rules, start with CDTFA’s digital products tax guide

Meet the Strategist Who Sees Opportunity Where Others See Obstacles

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 01:02:08 GMT

Beverly Kuykendall helps businesses navigate complex markets, build stronger partnerships and turn ambitious ideas into workable plans.

Some business leaders see a procurement requirement and stop at the obstacle. Beverly Kuykendall asks what it would take to move forward.

Over decades in federal acquisition and commercialization, Kuykendall has helped organizations work through the demands of government contracting while keeping their commercial goals in view. Her career has included executive roles as President of Government Business, Chief Strategy Officer and President.

In each, she has worked at the point where strategy must become something a team can actually execute.

Today, Kuykendall advises mission-driven organizations and manufacturers seeking new routes to growth. For companies pursuing domestic production, that may mean beginning with practical steps such as packaging, labeling, kitting, light assembly or fulfillment. These staged solutions can help a manufacturer establish domestic capacity and enter a market while building toward a larger goal.

She also helps manufacturers develop reseller and distribution programs with clear standards for selecting partners, onboarding them and measuring performance. The aim is to grow revenue while protecting the relationships and reputation a business has worked hard to build.

Kuykendall’s strength lies in making complicated systems understandable and actionable. She sees how procurement rules, supply chains and commercial partnerships fit together—and where an organization can make its next move with confidence.

For entrepreneurs and business leaders trying to enter a demanding market, that perspective matters. A complex path can still be a path. Kuykendall’s work helps organizations find it, prepare for it and take the next step.

Meet the Design Visionary Bringing Artistry to the World’s Most Memorable Spaces

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:38:51 GMT

Felecia Fisher-Shamu has built a women-owned furniture manufacturing business whose work reaches from Los Angeles hotels to destinations around the world.

Before Felecia Fisher-Shamu’s work appeared in luxury hotels and major entertainment venues, she was building relationships with the people who knew those spaces best: hotel engineering and housekeeping teams in Santa Monica and Los Angeles. She listened, learned what the work demanded and built a business around delivering it well.

Today, Fisher-Shamu is CEO and co-founder of Vitality Casegoods, Restorations, and Furniture Manufacturing, Inc. In a competitive industry where women business owners have had to establish their place, she has earned a reputation for custom furnishings, furniture design and restoration. She has done it with creative vision, perseverance and a team of skilled craftspeople.

Vitality’s work has reached properties in the United States, Anguilla, Saudi Arabia and Canada. Fisher-Shamu has contributed to sustainable projects with Google and ARIA in Las Vegas, as well as furnishings for major hotels and entertainment spaces. Her team’s work has also supported events associated with the NAACP Image Awards, the Daytime Emmys and Oscar celebrations, including a VIP gala honoring Black Panther costume designer Ruth E. Carter.

Her passion for restoration gives the business another dimension. Vitality helped restore antiques from Paris for Lumière at the refurbished Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles. Earlier in her career, Fisher-Shamu restored antiques for the Four Seasons Hotel Beverly Hills. She values the artistry in preserving a piece’s character as much as the skill required to create something new.

Even during the pandemic, when the hospitality industry faced extraordinary disruption, Vitality continued to win work. Projects included SoFi Stadium’s Owners Club, Loews St. Louis Live! hotel and Circa Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.

Fisher-Shamu’s story celebrates what a woman-owned business can build through talent, trusted relationships and the determination to keep going. Her furnishings may be found in celebrated spaces, but the deeper achievement is the enterprise she and her team have crafted along the way.

Meet the Pathway Builder Who Turns Education Into Opportunity

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:23:15 GMT

Richard “Rick” Benbow III connects employers, educators and communities to help more people reach the careers they imagine for themselves.

For Rick Benbow, access to education means more than opening a door. People also need a path through it: a way to gain skills, connect with employers and see where their effort can take them.

As a vice president at Western Governors University , Benbow builds partnerships that connect education with workforce needs. His market expansion work has contributed to more than 45% enrollment growth, and he has secured $5 million in grant funding to address education gaps. Among his accomplishments is a California High Road Training Partnership grant aimed at expanding workforce opportunities.

Benbow’s work has also included developing Nevada’s first software development apprenticeship program and building relationships with companies such as Apple and Google. Across these efforts, he focuses on a practical question: What would make this opportunity reachable for someone who has the talent, but needs a clear route forward?

He describes his leadership style as part builder, part connector and part coach. That approach has shaped his work with employers, agencies and educational institutions, as well as outreach efforts designed to speak to the communities they hope to serve. His experience also includes a strategic plan that strengthened UCLA’s engagement across greater Los Angeles.

Benbow measures growth by more than enrollment or the size of a partnership. The greater promise is what happens when those connections lead to skills, credentials and careers. By bringing the right people and resources together, he is helping make that promise possible for more learners.

Connect with Richard (Rick) Benbow, III >> here .

Meet the Connector Who Helps Businesses Get Ready for Opportunity

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:02:44 GMT

Robin Morgan Billups brings experience in commercial real estate finance and supplier diversity to her work helping entrepreneurs pursue contracts and build stronger businesses.

Robin Morgan Billups has spent her career working on both sides of a question many entrepreneurs face: How does a business become ready for a major opportunity?

She began in commercial real estate construction finance, sourcing, underwriting and managing conventional and affordable housing investments for institutions including Bank of America and U.S. Bank. As a commercial real estate construction relationship manager at U.S. Bank, she averaged more than $150 million in annual loan production.

Billups later created U.S. Bank’s national supplier diversity program across a 24-state footprint. She built a program focused on education, assessment, compliance and certification for businesses seeking a place in corporate supply chains. After leaving the bank, she joined the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council as a national business development manager, working with corporate members across the public and private sectors.

Today, she brings those experiences together through The Billups Group. Her firm works with organizations on supplier inclusion and procurement strategies while helping entrepreneurs assess their capabilities, strengthen client relationships and prepare to pursue contracts. Billups also serves as a speaker, panelist and facilitator on business strategy, women-owned and diverse business enterprises, and opportunities connected to housing, infrastructure and transit development.

An alumna of the USC Marshall School of Business’s Minority Program in Real Estate Development and Finance, Billups understands both the financial demands of large projects and the preparation smaller firms need to participate in them. Her goal is to help businesses recognize their marketable strengths, meet procurement requirements and turn a promising connection into lasting growth.

For more information connect with Robin Billups here.

Meet the Connector Who Helps Communities Have a Voice in Public Projects

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 23:48:02 GMT

Through JCL Consulting Group and the Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce, JC Lacy works to strengthen the relationships between public agencies, local businesses and the communities they serve.

A public project can affect a neighborhood long before construction begins. JC Lacy’s work starts with the conversations that help agencies understand who will be affected, what matters to them and how to keep them informed.

As principal of JCL Consulting Group, which he launched in 2019, Lacy develops community engagement strategies for public projects across California. His firm helps government agencies build relationships with local organizations and businesses through outreach planning, training and direct community support. Its work also includes digital marketing and storytelling.

Lacy brought more than a decade of Los Angeles public-sector experience to the venture. He previously served as a commissioner with the Los Angeles Housing Department, a transportation deputy in the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office and a business liaison at LA Metro. Across those roles, his focus was connecting agencies with the people and businesses their work touched.

Today, he also volunteers as president of the Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce, a 93-year-old nonprofit focused on economic development for small business owners. The role keeps him close to entrepreneurs whose perspectives can be overlooked in decisions about the places where they operate.

A Stanford University graduate with a degree in psychology and marketing, Lacy was also named to the Pac-10 All-Academic Team. His work now draws on that mix of communication, business engagement and cultural competency to help communities participate in projects that shape their future.

For more information visit: JCL Consulting Group and Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce.

Meet the Leader Who Is Guiding the Next Chapter of Black Business

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 23:35:11 GMT

Sarah R. Harris brings more than two decades of service to the Black Business Association and a career spent helping organizations connect with their communities.

Sarah R. Harris knows how to keep building when circumstances change. In 1999, she created SAVE THE DATE, an eight-page quarterly newsletter featuring community events and news. It grew into a full-color magazine in 2005. When economic pressures and changes in publishing led her to close it in 2010, Harris kept her creative ambitions alive. She returned to publishing in 2019 with the launch of Suite Life SoCal, which she leads as publisher-in-chief.

Today, Harris serves as chairwoman and CEO of the Black Business Association (BBA), California’s oldest active ethnic business support organization. She has worked with the BBA for more than 20 years, providing services alongside its previous leader, Mr. Cooper. That history gives her a close understanding of the organization as she helps guide its next chapter.

Harris is also president of SuiteEvents, a Southern California creative services and marketing company. Through that work, she has served more than 100 organizations, elected officials, government agencies and small businesses, including the City of Inglewood, USC Marshall School of Business, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, and the YWCA of Greater Los Angeles.

Her contributions have earned recognition for both her publishing and community work. In 2008, then-Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas selected her business as the 26th District’s Small Business of the Year.

At the BBA, Harris brings together her experience as an entrepreneur and her long-standing commitment to the organization. She is looking ahead to what the association can become while honoring the leadership and relationships that brought it this far.

For more information visit: Black Business Association

Your Business Needs You Healthy: A Message for California’s "Everyday Unicorns"

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 22:26:58 GMT

For entrepreneurs who built a livelihood out of necessity, taking care of everyone else can come naturally. Covered California Executive Director Jessica Altman wants them to know that help finding health coverage is within reach—and that their own well-being deserves attention.

They get up early to prepare for customers and stay up late answering messages, finishing orders or wondering how to make the numbers work. Some started a business because they saw an opportunity. Others started because they needed one. At Urban Business Journal, we call these resourceful, determined people everyday unicorns.

They are good at making a way. They may be less practiced at making time for themselves.

A checkup can wait until after the busy season. A nagging concern can wait until the next invoice is paid. Rest can wait until everything on the list is done—which, for an entrepreneur, may feel like never.

That is one reason a conversation about health coverage matters. For people who work for themselves or take on gig work, there may be no employer handing them a benefits packet. Some assume insurance is out of reach. Others simply have not had the time to find out.

Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California , has a message for them: “We see you.”

Asked about self-employed workers and entrepreneurs without job-based coverage during an interviews at Covered California’s Connected to Coverage Summit at Charles Drew University, Altman told Urban Business Journal, “We see the struggles to get by, but also that it is so challenging to choose to work in a way that you don’t get the stability of benefits.”

Covered California is the state’s health insurance marketplace. People who work for themselves can use it to explore individual health plans and find out whether they qualify for financial help. The same application checks eligibility for Medi-Cal. If you are self-employed and have no W-2 employees, an individual plan may be the right place to start; owning a business does not, by itself, disqualify you from assistance.

“We are incredibly proud to be the place that people who are self-employed or in the gig economy can come and still get financial support to bring health insurance within reach, hopefully for them,” Altman said.

Make room for the person behind the business

Health coverage is a practical step. So is using it.

Entrepreneurs can become so accustomed to solving problems for other people that they brush past their own. They show up for a customer despite a poor night’s sleep. They reschedule a medical visit to take a meeting. They promise themselves they will slow down when business settles.

Caring for yourself need not begin with a dramatic overhaul. It can begin by scheduling an appointment you have put off, asking a health care professional which screenings are appropriate for you, or making enough room in the day to eat and rest. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends staying current on appropriate checkups, screenings and vaccinations, and says adults should get at least seven hours of sleep a day.

For an everyday unicorn, this is part of being about the business: taking the best possible care of the person the business depends on.

How Covered California works

Visit CoveredCA.com to compare plans and apply. If you would rather talk it through, call (800) 300-1506 or use the website to find free local enrollment help. Altman said Covered California also offers online help and works with enrollment partners in communities across the state.

“They speak your language if your first language is not English,” she said of local enrollment partners. “And it is their job to provide free and confidential assistance in navigating health insurance, period.”

You do not have to know in advance whether you qualify for a Covered California plan or Medi-Cal. One application checks both. If a marketplace plan is an option, you can compare its monthly premium—the amount you pay to keep coverage—with other costs, such as deductibles and copays, before choosing.

If your income changes from month to month, make your best estimate of your household income for the year you want coverage. That estimate helps determine financial assistance. Update it when your circumstances change so your assistance reflects what you are actually earning. The cost of coverage and the help available will depend on your household and the plan you choose.

Mark these dates

Open enrollment for 2027 coverage begins November 1, 2026, and ends January 31, 2027. To have a health plan start on January 1, 2027, enroll by December 31, 2026. Enrolling in January generally means coverage begins February 1. Certain life changes, including losing other health coverage, may allow someone to enroll outside that window. Medi-Cal enrollment is available year-round.

Altman acknowledged that finding health coverage does not make every challenge disappear. “It’s never going to be perfect,” she said. But she wants independent workers to know that helping them access care is part of Covered California’s mission.

If you have been waiting for the business to give you permission to take care of yourself, consider this your reminder: check your coverage options, make the appointment, and give your health a place on the schedule. You have spent a great deal of energy building a way forward .

You deserve care along the way.

For more information visit: CoveredCa.com

About the Author:

Kim Anthony is the publisher of Urban Business Journal and author of Everyday Unicorns: Entrepreneurship as the Pathway to Economic Mobility, a book about the resourcefulness of "entrepreneurs by necessity" who build businesses to create opportunity for themselves and their communities. Learn more at UBJLA.com/kimanthony

Your Next LA Restaurant Find Could Become Someone’s Next Big Opportunity

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 14:49:53 GMT

LOS ANGELES — A meal out can do more than introduce you to a new favorite dish. It can introduce you to the entrepreneur behind it.

Los Angeles Black Restaurant Week runs through Sunday, September 27 , spotlighting Black-owned culinary businesses across the region. The organizer’s LA directory includes restaurants and cafés in Los Angeles, Inglewood, Hawthorne, Lakewood and Northridge. Among the listings are Obet & Del’s Coffee, All Chill, The Toast and Jam, and College Boy Cheesesteaks.

The campaign offers an easy starting point for people who want to spend locally with more intention. Browse the directory, choose a business you have not tried, and bring a friend. If you enjoy the experience, tell someone about it. A recommendation, a return visit or a catering inquiry can help turn a one-time discovery into an ongoing customer relationship.

For business owners and community organizations, there is another opportunity: consider these culinary entrepreneurs when planning meetings, staff events and celebrations. The most meaningful support can continue well beyond Restaurant Week.

Find a business in the Los Angeles Black Restaurant Week directory .

Photo credit: Instagram | Joyce Soul and Sea DTLA

LA’s Nonprofits Are a Major Economic Force, New Report Finds

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 13:54:21 GMT

LOS ANGELES — Nearly 28,000 organizations employ 335,000 people in Los Angeles County. The findings give nonprofit leaders new evidence to bring to funding, policy and partnership conversations.Nonprofits are often measured by the people they serve. A new report makes the case for measuring them as a major part of the local economy, too.

The Center for Nonprofit Management and the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation examined 27,916 active nonprofits in Los Angeles County. Together, the organizations employ approximately 335,000 people. If counted as a single sector, nonprofits would rank as the county’s fourth-largest employer.

The report estimates that nonprofit activity generates $185.6 billion in total economic output. It also supports an estimated 1.16 million jobs when direct employment, supplier activity and other economic effects are counted together. Those are different measures: 335,000 people work directly for nonprofits, while the larger figure includes jobs supported throughout the county economy.

The findings matter especially for smaller organizations. Ninety percent of the nonprofits studied have annual income below $1 million. Their combined economic reach is substantial, even though many operate with limited budgets and staff.

For nonprofit leaders, the report offers language for conversations with funders and elected officials: an investment in their work can support both community services and local employment. For businesses, it is a reminder that nonprofits purchase goods and services and can be valuable customers and partners.

The opportunity: Read the report, identify the figures most relevant to your organization, and pair them with your own results. The countywide numbers tell a powerful story; your organization’s jobs, spending and community outcomes can show where you fit within it.

Access the LAEDC report here

Photo: Los Angeles County nonprofits employ approximately 335,000 people and help drive economic activity across the region.

Mayor Bass Launches RELAY28 to Connect Local Workers to Jobs During and Beyond the 2028 Games

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 13:52:01 GMT

LOS ANGELES – Mayor Karen Bass today launched RELAY28, a regional coalition dedicated to connecting local workers to jobs and helping local businesses prepare for the workforce needs of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. A recent study conducted by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) estimates that planning, preparing for, and hosting the Games could generate up to $40.6 billion in economic output and create more than 200,000 jobs across the L.A. region. RELAY28 is harnessing that economic opportunity to create and develop careers that will benefit working Angelenos beyond 2028.

“Los Angeles is preparing to welcome the world, and we are making sure our workers and businesses are ready to benefit from the opportunities that come with it,” said Mayor Bass . “RELAY28 brings together employers, workforce leaders, educators, labor, and community partners to connect Angelenos to quality jobs, strengthen our local businesses, and build a stronger regional economy. The Games are more than a summer event — the opportunities we create today will benefit Los Angeles for years to come.”

“The 2028 Games represent a once-in-a-generation catalyst to generate up to $40 billion in economic output and support more than 200,000 jobs across our region," said LA28 Chief Executive Officer, Reynold Hoover. "As LA28 expands our workforce from nearly 1,000 employees today to approximately 5,000 at Games time, local hire is about far more than filling temporary roles, it is about creating long-term career pathways for Angelenos. We are proud to partner with Mayor Bass, the City of Los Angeles and regional workforce development leaders on this initiative. Together, with all of our partners, we will ensure the economic benefits of the Games leave a lasting legacy for years to come.”

RELAY28 is a regional coalition of employers, local governments, workforce development boards, educational institutions, labor organizations, chambers of commerce, philanthropy, and community partners to coordinate workforce efforts across the region. Employers will identify projected hiring and skills needs and through RELAY28 connect with qualified local talent. RELAY28 will also focus on helping young people enter the workforce and build lasting careers through internships, apprenticeships, work-based learning, and mentorships.

On Monday, September 28, Mayor Bass will host her third annual Sports and Entertainment Procurement Summit to help prepare businesses for contracting opportunities for upcoming major events, including the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Summit will include a fireside chat featuring Mayor Bass and Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises. Networking opportunities, procurement guidance, matchmaking appointments between businesses and prime contractors, and more will also be available between panels. RSVP here .

Local Businesses Can Connect with Real Opportunities in Sports, Entertainment and Government Contracting

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 13:43:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES – Mayor Karen Bass is inviting Angelenos to attend her 3rd annual Sports and Entertainment Procurement Summit on Monday, September 28 at the LA Convention Center. Launched in 2024 by Mayor Bass, the free summit provides local businesses with support and resources to tap into opportunities for upcoming major global events coming to Los Angeles. This year, Mayor Bass will participate in a moderated fireside chat with LA legend, Earvin “Magic” Johnson.

Interested Angelenos can visit here to RSVP. B-roll and photos of last year’s Sports and Entertainment Procurement Summit available here.

“Through my Sports and Entertainment Procurement Summit, we’re making sure LA’s business owners are ready to compete and win major contracts ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” said Mayor Bass . “With an expected $40 billion in economic opportunity from the LA28 Games, I’m hoping entrepreneurs will join me to access these critical resources, hear from industry experts and learn how they can take their business to the next level ahead of this global moment for Los Angeles.”

Last year, the summit hosted more than 1,600 local businesses and entrepreneurs, where attendees had access to networking opportunities, resources, and procurement guidance to help them better compete for contracts. Industry leaders also provided insights into their planning and preparation for major upcoming sporting events.

In addition to the third annual Sports and Entertainment Procurement Summit, Mayor Bass has also taken multiple actions to support the LA business community and get Angelenos ready for major global events, including:

Launching RELAY28, a regional coalition dedicated to connecting local workers to jobs and helping local businesses prepare for the workforce needs of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Securing more than $45 million in contracts for LA’s local and small businesses through her ProcureLA program which provides businesses with targeted services, guidance, and resources to build a pipeline of businesses ready to compete and secure major contracts ahead of major events.

Issuing Executive Directive 19 to reduce delays in City approval processes, simplify permitting and make it easier for Angelenos to open a new business.

Starting the City’s Contract Financing Program, thanks to a $1M donation from Banc of California, helping local small business owners and entrepreneurs access competitive City contracts through securing competitive financial capital.

Finalizing the expansion and modernization of the LA Convention Center, signaling that LA is ready to compete and win on the world stage, attracting even more global tourism.

Announcing the new Business Navigator, a centralized website for local small businesses to access permits, resources and procurement opportunities.

Beverly Kuykendall Honored with SCMSDC Business Advocate Award

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 01:28:41 GMT

IRVINE, Calif. — September 2, 2026 — Beverly Kuykendall, Chief Strategy Officer of Kuykendall and Associates, was surprised with the Business Advocate Award from the Southern California Minority Supplier Development Council (SCMSDC) during the SCMSDC Southern California Business Excellence Forum, held Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at UC Irvine Beall Applied Innovation at The Cove.

The award recognizes Kuykendall’s more than 30 years of support and advocacy on behalf of the business community across Southern California and beyond.

A Southern California native, Kuykendall has built her career on a deep understanding of federal procurement protocols and a commitment to sharing that expertise widely. Her guidance has helped numerous West Coast companies successfully enter the federal marketplace, enabling them to balance their public- and private-sector business portfolios and diversify their revenue mix.

Across the business community, Kuykendall is known for closing the distance between California’s business owners and decision-makers in Washington, D.C. That ability to connect businesses with people, information and federal opportunities has earned her a reputation as, simply, the bridge.

“Beverly Kuykendall has spent more than three decades doing the work of opening doors — connecting Southern California businesses with federal opportunities they might never have found on their own,” said Marlene Nantell, SCMSDC. “She is, quite simply, the bridge between our region business community and Washington, D.C. This recognition is well-earned, and we were proud to celebrate her in front of her peers.”

In addition to receiving the award, Kuykendall served as a panelist during a fireside chat at the Forum. She shared the podium with representatives from the City of Los Angeles Internal Services Department and the County of Los Angeles Department of Equal Opportunity.

Luvina Beckley, who was in the audience for the surprise presentation, said the recognition reflected the impact Kuykendall has made throughout her career.

“I've watched Beverly guide company after company through the federal procurement process with a level of patience and expertise that's rare to find,” Beckley said. “Seeing her honored today, in front of this room, was a moment years in the making. She has earned every bit of it.”

San Bernardino County’s Reverse Vendor Show Opens a “World of Opportunities” for Local Businesses

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 01:09:19 GMT

Local business owners interested in selling products or services to San Bernardino County will have an opportunity to meet directly with the departments that purchase them during the County’s upcoming World of Opportunities Reverse Vendor Show on September 10, 2026, in Yucaipa.

Local business owners interested in selling products or services to San Bernardino County will have an opportunity to meet directly with the departments that purchase them during the County’s upcoming World of Opportunities Reverse Vendor Show on September 10, 2026, in Yucaipa.

Unlike a traditional vendor fair—where businesses staff booths and wait for prospective customers—the Reverse Vendor Show turns the format around. County departments and purchasing representatives host the booths while vendors circulate, introduce their companies, learn what departments purchase and begin building relationships with potential government customers.

The event is designed to make County procurement more accessible by giving entrepreneurs an opportunity to speak face-to-face with departmental representatives, ask questions and better understand how their products and services may align with the County’s operational needs

Why This Matters

San Bernardino County purchases a vast range of goods and professional services to support its departments and serve nearly 2.2 million residents. Those purchasing needs can create valuable opportunities for local companies—including small, micro, minority-owned and emerging businesses that may not have previously considered government contracting.

A previous World of Opportunities event brought together more than 156 local vendors, 105 County employees and representatives from 35 County departments, demonstrating the breadth of opportunities available through the County’s procurement system.

The Reverse Vendor Show also gives business owners a chance to move beyond simply searching for open solicitations. Vendors can learn what departments need, identify appropriate buyers and begin developing the relationships and understanding that can better prepare them for future contracting opportunities.

How to Prepare

Business owners planning to participate should be prepared to clearly explain:

What their company provides
The industries and customers they currently serve
Their company’s capabilities and capacity
What makes their products or services distinctive
How their business could help a County department meet its needs

Vendors should also bring business cards, a concise capability statement and any applicable certifications or qualifications.

Companies interested in doing business with San Bernardino County must register through the County’s ePro electronic procurement system. Through ePro, vendors can register their businesses, select relevant commodity codes, review open bids and receive notices about potential opportunities.

The Purchasing Department’s online toolkit also allows businesses to search commodity codes, identify buyers by department and access tutorials and procurement resources.

About San Bernardino County Purchasing

The San Bernardino County Purchasing Department obtains goods and services for County departments, establishes and administers contracts, manages supplier relationships and oversees the County’s electronic procurement system. Its work is guided by customer service, partnership, innovation, ethical and fair conduct, professional standards and transparency.

In addition to securing the goods and services needed by County departments, Purchasing works to cultivate a business-friendly environment that supports vendor participation and local economic development.

Opportunity at a Glance

Event: World of Opportunities Reverse Vendor Show

Date: Thursday, September 10, 2026

Location: Yucaipa, California

Presented by: San Bernardino County Purchasing Department

Who Should Attend: Businesses and vendors interested in selling products or services to San Bernardino County

For event registration and updates, visit the San Bernardino County Purchasing Department .

For vendor-registration assistance, call (909) 387-3373. Businesses may also contact the Purchasing Department at epro.vendor@pur.sbcounty.gov or (909) 387-2060.

UBJ Opportunity Takeaway

Government procurement can feel complicated, but events like the World of Opportunities Reverse Vendor Show give business owners a more accessible place to begin. Register in ePro, prepare a strong capability statement, research the County departments most likely to purchase what you provide—and attend ready to listen, learn and build relationships.

Urban Business Journal practices Opportunity Journalism℠ connecting business builders with the information, resources, relationships and opportunities that can help them thrive.

From Enslavement to Empowerment: L.A. Moves to Rename Pershing Square in Honor of Biddy Mason’s Extraordinary Legacy

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 14:47:53 GMT

LOS ANGELES — Biddy Mason arrived in California without her freedom. But through extraordinary courage, determination and faith, she built a life that would help shape Los Angeles for generations.

Now, nearly 170 years after Mason won her freedom in a Los Angeles courtroom, the city is taking steps to ensure that her name and remarkable legacy are seen and remembered.

The Los Angeles City Council voted unanimously Friday to begin the process of renaming Pershing Square as Biddy Mason Park. The five-acre Downtown Los Angeles plaza, located between Olive and Hill streets near the Biltmore Hotel, would honor the formerly enslaved woman who became a successful landowner, philanthropist and founder of First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Los Angeles—one of the nation’s largest Black churches.

The Rev. Timothy E. Tyler of First AME Church was among those who urged the council to approve the change.

"In a world where histories are being erased and denied or negated, we believe that this act by the City Council will signal to the world that we in Los Angeles value those who have helped to build this city," Tyler said.

Council member Ysabel Jurado, whose district includes the park and who championed the proposal, said Mason’s story reflects the very heart of Los Angeles.

"When we talk about the Angeleno spirit, resilience, hope, and a refusal to let injustice define what's impossible for us, there may be no better example of that than Biddy Mason," Jurado said.

About Biddy Mason

Biddy Mason was born into slavery in Mississippi in 1818. After being forced to walk 1,700 miles west, she arrived in California, where slavery was illegal. In 1856, she courageously petitioned a Los Angeles court and won freedom for herself and members of her family. Mason later became a respected nurse, midwife, entrepreneur, philanthropist and one of Los Angeles’ earliest Black landowners.

She used her wealth to help people in need and co-founded First African Methodist Episcopal Church. Her remarkable journey from enslavement to ownership and community leadership made her a foundational figure in Los Angeles history and Black achievement.

A Legacy Born from Courage

Bridget “Biddy” Mason was born into slavery in Mississippi in 1818. Born without a surname, she was given the name Bridget, while “Biddy” became the name by which she was affectionately known.

She was sold multiple times and taken across state lines before reaching California. In 1848, Mason traveled west with Robert Smith, a Mississippi plantation owner who was relocating to establish a Mormon community in Utah.

Mason reportedly walked 1,700 miles alongside a 300-wagon caravan during the months-long journey. Along the way, she cared for Smith’s children as well as her own, cooked meals and herded cattle.

Smith later moved his household from Utah to San Bernardino, even though slavery was illegal in California. During that journey, Mason met free Black Californians who encouraged her and the other enslaved people traveling with her to challenge their legal status after reaching the state.

Mason found the courage to do exactly that.

In 1856, she petitioned a Los Angeles court and won freedom for herself and several members of her family. The case became one of the city’s earliest legal challenges to slavery and helped establish an important precedent for freedom in California.

But freedom was only the beginning of Biddy Mason’s story.

Building Wealth—and Sharing It

Mason worked as a nurse and midwife, carefully saving her earnings and eventually purchasing property in a rapidly growing Los Angeles. Over time, she became one of the city’s most successful early landowners.

Her accomplishments were extraordinary, particularly for a Black woman who had once been denied ownership of even her own life.

Yet Mason did not build wealth for herself alone. She became known for helping neighbors in need, feeding people experiencing hardship and using her resources to strengthen her community. She also helped establish First African Methodist Episcopal Church, creating a spiritual home and community institution that continues serving Los Angeles today.

Kevin Waite, a history professor at the University of Texas at Dallas who wrote a biography of Mason, said Black leaders such as Mason have too often been left at the margins of the city’s public history.

"Black civic leaders like Biddy Mason have long struggled for their due," said Waite, who grew up in Pasadena.

While researching Mason’s life, Waite discovered that she owned land between Olive and Grand streets, immediately next to Pershing Square. That direct connection, he said, makes the park a fitting place to honor a woman who invested her life, labor and resources in Los Angeles.

A Historic Park—and a Difficult Debate

Pershing Square is one of Los Angeles’ oldest parks. The land was dedicated for public use in 1866 as La Plaza Abaja. In 1918, following World War I, it was renamed Pershing Square in honor of Gen. John J. Pershing, who commanded U.S. forces in Europe.

Not everyone supports replacing the Pershing name.

Courtland Jindra, a former co-director of the California World War I Centennial Task Force, told the council that the plaza honors not only Pershing, but also the soldiers and sailors who served during the war.

"If we take away memorials for anyone, for the military, who's to say they're not going to take away the L.A. Memorial Coliseum?" Jindra asked.

Kim Cooper, who leads historical tours through her company Esotouric and considers herself a preservationist, also expressed concern about removing Pershing’s name.

"Pershing lived a life of integrity, as did Biddy Mason, and they're not in competition," Cooper said in an interview.

Mason already has a small park dedicated to her near Spring and Third streets. Built in 1989 on the site of her original homestead, the memorial honors her life but is tucked away and largely hidden from public view, according to Waite.

Cooper agreed that the existing memorial "needs some love," but believes it should receive better signs and greater visibility instead of renaming a World War I memorial.

She also criticized the city’s care of Pershing Square. On Friday morning, trash was scattered throughout the park, people appeared to be using drugs, and an unhoused person had set up a sleeping area on a park bench.

The effort to rename the square is not new. Then-Council member Kevin de León introduced a similar proposal in 2024, but it expired without a hearing as he faced political fallout from the 2022 Los Angeles City Hall racism scandal.

Friday’s vote does not immediately change the park’s name. It directs city officials to begin the formal renaming process.

For many supporters, however, the vote is already meaningful. It brings greater visibility to a woman whose courage, business leadership, generosity and faith are woven deeply into the history of Los Angeles.

Biddy Mason began her life without freedom, a last name or the right to own property. She ended it as a respected landowner, entrepreneur, philanthropist, church founder and community builder.

Renaming Pershing Square would do more than place her name on a park. It would place Biddy Mason where she has always belonged—at the center of the Los Angeles story.

Photo: The Angels 2010, CC BY-SA 3.0 | Wikipedia Commons

PCR Business Finance Opens New South Los Angeles Headquarters

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 03:26:26 GMT

PCR Business Finance has officially opened the doors to its new headquarters at 3800 W. Slauson Avenue in Los Angeles , placing a major small-business resource directly in the community it was created to serve.

Elected officials, community organizations, business owners and supporters gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house celebrating the new location—and what it could mean for entrepreneurs throughout South Los Angeles.

For PCR President and CEO Mark Robertson Sr. , reaching this milestone required faith, determination and a clear commitment to the community.

“The process has been one of faith, persistence, pushing forward to make sure this happens for our community at this time,” Robertson said.

“PCR was started almost 50 years ago to support businesses that don’t have resources, and now, here we are, putting our footprint in the community that needs us most,” he continued. “We are just so excited about that.”

Nearly 50 Years of Expanding Economic Opportunity

Founded in 1977, PCR Business Finance is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that promotes community economic development through financial, educational and advisory services.

PCR is described as the only organization in Los Angeles County with dual designation as both a Community Development Financial Institution and Small Business Development Center. Through those roles, the organization connects under-resourced entrepreneurs with financing, technical assistance, education and guidance designed to help them start, stabilize and grow their businesses.

Its new Slauson Avenue headquarters represents a significant investment in that mission—and in the future of South Los Angeles business owners.

“We’re not just celebrating today a new building, but what this building represents for South L.A. entrepreneurs,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell , who delivered the keynote address. “We deserve a world-class resource right here in our own community.”

Mitchell described the new headquarters as a $6 million investment in the unincorporated Second District and emphasized the importance of strengthening community-based financial institutions.

“We are here at a pivotal time,” Mitchell said. “Community development financial institutions are under attack from our very own federal government.”

“This $6 million investment—I said, $6 million investment—in unincorporated Second District really is a declaration that we believe in ourselves, this community, and we’re not going to wait on the federal government to validate our worth.”

A Visible Home for Business-Building Resources

Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson celebrated PCR’s decision to make its presence visible along the Slauson Avenue corridor.

“A big round of applause for beautifying an already beautiful corridor—our corridor—and putting your name on front street so everybody can see that we’re up in here, about the business of our community having small businesses,” Harris-Dawson said.

“It’s important that you’re here. It’s important that everybody knows, if I ever get ready to have a business, I know where to go. It’s right here on the corner.”

Other officials and representatives attending the celebration included:

Long Beach City Councilwoman Tunua Thrash-Ntuk
Representatives from the office of Compton Mayor Emma Sharif
Representatives from the office of U.S. Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove
Representatives from the office of California State Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas
Representatives from the office of California State Treasurer Fiona Ma
Representatives from the office of Assemblymember Isaac Bryan
Representatives from the office of Assemblymember Tina McKinnor
Representatives from the office of Los Angeles County Assessor Jeffrey Prang
Representatives from the office of Los Angeles Metro Board Director Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker

Helping Businesses Prepare for Major Opportunities

PCR enters its next chapter with a long record of connecting businesses and communities to capital.

The organization recently surpassed $50 million in administered funds through Los Angeles Metro’s Business Interruption Fund , one of many milestones it has achieved during nearly five decades of service.

PCR is also helping small businesses prepare for the economic activity expected around the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles and other large-scale events coming to the region.

Those opportunities could generate new customers, contracts and visibility for local companies. But small-business owners may need financing, certifications, stronger operations and technical guidance to compete effectively. PCR’s combination of capital and business-development services positions the organization to help entrepreneurs become ready for those opportunities.

Bringing the Work Back Home

The opening also carried deep personal meaning for Robertson, who grew up in the surrounding neighborhood.

“It feels wonderful,” Robertson said after cutting the ribbon. “This is the community I grew up in. I went to 54th Street School, maybe just a half mile from here.”

“This is my neighborhood, and it’s good to be able to go out, have been educated, trained and bring all of that back to the community I love.”

With its new headquarters now open, PCR Business Finance is creating a visible place where entrepreneurs can seek funding, receive guidance and find the support needed to move their businesses forward.

For more information about PCR’s financing, education and business-advisory services, visit pcrcorp.org .

UBJ Takeaway: South Los Angeles and Southern California entrepreneurs seeking capital or business assistance should review PCR’s available loan programs, advising services and upcoming training opportunities—particularly those preparing for public contracting and LA28-related growth.

JPMorganChase Puts Small Businesses at the Center of Its LA28 Strategy

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:36:23 GMT

As Los Angeles prepares to welcome the world, local entrepreneurs are being encouraged to prepare now for the contracts, capital and growth opportunities surrounding the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

By Urban Business Journal Staff

The 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games will bring more than world-class competition to Los Angeles. They are also expected to generate significant demand for local goods, services and suppliers—and JPMorganChase says small businesses should be positioned to participate.

JPMorganChase Chairman and CEO Jamie Dimon and Los Angeles-based executive Diedra Porché are helping focus attention on the economic potential surrounding LA28, particularly for entrepreneurs and neighborhood businesses that have historically struggled to access major contracts and growth capital.

The financial institution recently became the Official Bank of Team USA and the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, a Founding Partner of LA28 and the first Global Banking Partner in Olympic history.

But for Los Angeles business owners, the most consequential part of the partnership may be what happens beyond the competition venues.

JPMorganChase says its LA28 commitment will include efforts to empower local businesses, increase access to financial resources and help ensure that the economic impact of the Games continues after the closing ceremony.

“The Olympic and Paralympic Games bring people together in powerful ways,” Porché wrote when announcing the partnership. “And they create opportunity that extends well beyond the moment—for athletes, for families and for communities.”

A Major Economic Moment for Los Angeles

Delivering an event of LA28’s scale will require an extensive network of companies.

The organizing committee says hundreds of contracting opportunities are expected across industries including:

Event production
Food and beverage
Hospitality and tourism
Transportation
Logistics and warehousing
Security
Technology
Marketing and communications
Staffing and workforce services
Equipment rental
Professional services
Cleaning, maintenance and waste management

LA28 has established a goal of directing 75% of its addressable spending to local businesses and 25% to small businesses through its Community Business Supplier Program.

That commitment could open doors for Los Angeles entrepreneurs—but registration alone will not be enough. Companies must be financially prepared, operationally capable and ready to meet the requirements of large institutional buyers.

Capital, Coaching and Connections

JPMorganChase’s LA28 partnership comes as the company expands its broader support for small businesses through its American Dream Initiative.

The bank plans to provide nearly $80 billion in small-business lending over the next decade, hire more than 1,000 additional business bankers and expand its team of senior business consultants. Los Angeles is among the priority markets identified for increased support.

The initiative also includes an expansion of Coaching for Impact, which provides entrepreneurs with individual coaching, technical assistance and business education.

Porché, JPMorganChase’s regional chair for California and the West and head of Community and Business Development, has spent much of her career connecting entrepreneurs to capital, mentoring and practical financial tools.

Her leadership is especially relevant in Los Angeles, where many small and diverse businesses have the expertise to perform major contracts but may need help strengthening cash flow, accessing working capital or navigating complex procurement systems.

That distinction matters. Winning a large contract can place unexpected pressure on a small company. Vendors may need to hire employees, purchase inventory, secure equipment and complete work weeks—or months—before receiving payment.

Access to capital is therefore not separate from procurement readiness. It is part of it.

Opportunity Is Not the Same as Access

The arrival of the Games does not automatically guarantee that neighborhood businesses will benefit.

Small companies can still be excluded by limited outreach, complicated registration systems, insurance requirements, bonding thresholds, slow payment schedules or contracts packaged at sizes that only established corporations can manage.

For LA28’s small-business commitment to create meaningful economic mobility, local entrepreneurs must be able to compete as prime contractors, subcontractors and suppliers throughout the Games’ supply chain.

Banks, corporations, government agencies and technical-assistance organizations will also need to coordinate their resources. Business owners should not have to navigate disconnected systems to locate financing, certifications, training and contracting opportunities.

The true measure of LA28’s economic legacy will not simply be how much money the Games generate. It will be how much of that investment reaches Los Angeles businesses, workers and communities—and whether participating companies emerge stronger after 2028.

What Los Angeles Businesses Should Do Now

The contracting window is already opening. Business owners should begin preparing before opportunities aligned with their capabilities are announced.

1. Register with LA28

Businesses interested in supplying goods or services should complete the official LA28 Supplier Registration .

Registration places a company in the supplier database but does not guarantee a contract. LA28 may contact registered companies when relevant opportunities arise.

2. Join RAMP

LA28’s competitive procurement opportunities are expected to appear through the City of Los Angeles’ Regional Alliance Marketplace for Procurement , commonly known as RAMP.

Businesses should create a complete vendor profile, select accurate commodity codes and review the platform regularly for Requests for Information, Expressions of Interest and formal solicitations.

3. Prepare a Strong Capability Statement

A one-page capability statement should clearly communicate:

The company’s core services
Relevant project experience
Past performance
Certifications
Geographic service area
Insurance and bonding capacity
Business identifiers and commodity codes
Contact information
What makes the company especially qualified

The document should be tailored to the buyer rather than used as a generic company flyer.

4. Review Financial Capacity

Businesses should understand how much working capital they would need to perform a major contract successfully.

Owners should review cash flow, credit, payroll capacity, equipment needs and the financial effect of delayed payments before submitting a bid.

5. Secure Relevant Certifications

Depending on the opportunity, certification as a small, minority-owned, woman-owned, veteran-owned, LGBTQ-owned or disabled-owned business may increase visibility and provide access to supplier-diversity programs.

Business owners should verify which certifications are recognized by each buyer rather than assuming one certification applies everywhere.

6. Look for Subcontracting Opportunities

Not every business will enter the LA28 supply chain as a prime contractor.

Smaller companies can pursue subcontracting, joint ventures and supplier relationships with larger firms that need local partners, specialized expertise or diverse vendors to fulfill major agreements.

7. Use Free Procurement Assistance

ProcureLA provides eligible Los Angeles businesses with free procurement education and assistance designed to help companies compete for public- and private-sector contracts.

Small Business Development Centers and other local technical-assistance providers can also help owners review financials, refine capability statements and assess contract readiness.

The Starting Gun Has Already Fired

The Olympic flame will not arrive in Los Angeles until 2028, but the business opportunity has already begun.

For local entrepreneurs, the next two years should be treated as a preparation period: strengthening operations, building relationships, securing capital and becoming visible to the institutions and prime contractors that will help deliver the Games.

JPMorganChase has the scale, resources and Los Angeles presence to play a meaningful role in that preparation. The firm serves more than five million customers and approximately 589,000 small-business clients across Greater Los Angeles, supported by more than 330 branches and 6,000 employees.

The opportunity now is to translate that reach—and LA28’s supplier goals—into measurable contracts, jobs and long-term business growth across Los Angeles.

The world is coming to the city. Los Angeles businesses should be ready when it arrives.

A Sweet Legacy: 27th Street Bakery Celebrates 70 Years in South Los Angeles

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 16:46:57 GMT

The third-generation, Black-owned business has turned a family recipe into a West Coast enterprise—while remaining rooted in the community that helped it grow.

By Urban Business Journal Staff

For 70 years, the ovens at 27th Street Bakery have produced more than sweet potato pies. They have helped sustain a family legacy, create neighborhood jobs and preserve an important piece of Black business history in South Los Angeles.

Located at 2700 South Central Avenue, the third-generation, Black-owned bakery is celebrating seven decades in business—a milestone few small businesses ever reach.

Best known for its homemade sweet potato and pecan pies, 27th Street Bakery has grown from a neighborhood favorite into what the company describes as the largest manufacturer of sweet potato pies on the West Coast.

From Southern Roots to a Los Angeles Landmark

The business began during the 1930s when Harry and Sadie Patterson opened a restaurant along Central Avenue, then the cultural and commercial heart of Black Los Angeles.

The Pattersons brought Southern recipes and traditions with them, creating food that offered Los Angeles’ growing Black community a familiar taste of home.

In 1956, the family converted the restaurant into a specialty bakery producing sweet potato pies, fruit pies, cakes and other desserts. That transformation established the business now known as 27th Street Bakery.

The next generation assumed leadership in 1980, when the founders’ daughter, Alberta Cravin, and grandson, Gregory Spann, took over the operation. Today, the bakery is led by sisters Denise Cravin-Paschal and Olympic gold medalist Jeanette Bolden-Pickens, along with Bolden-Pickens’ husband, Al Pickens.

Five additional family members are reportedly involved in the business, continuing a tradition of shared ownership and responsibility.

More Than a Bakery

The bakery’s longevity is especially significant because of where it stands.

Central Avenue was once home to a thriving collection of Black-owned hotels, nightclubs, restaurants and professional offices. As Los Angeles changed and families dispersed into other neighborhoods, many of those businesses disappeared.

27th Street Bakery remained.

Its presence represents both economic endurance and cultural preservation. Across several generations, the company has provided employment, stability and a trusted gathering place for neighborhood residents.

The bakery has also learned how to grow without abandoning its roots.

Customers can still walk into the Central Avenue storefront and purchase fresh pastries, but the company now accepts online orders, offers nationwide shipping through Goldbelly and provides local delivery through services including DoorDash, Uber Eats and Postmates.

The company was also selected as an approved supplier for the Super Bowl LVI Business Connect program—an initiative that identified qualified, diverse Los Angeles-area companies to compete for contracting opportunities connected to the event.

That combination of tradition, distribution and supplier readiness offers a valuable lesson for other community-based businesses: longevity often depends on preserving what customers love while continually developing new ways to reach them.

Seventy Years—and Still Growing

In recognition of the anniversary, 27th Street Bakery is offering slices of sweet potato pie for 70 cents on select Saturdays through October 31, according to reporting from LA Local.

The promotion is more than an anniversary special. It is an invitation for Los Angeles residents to support a business that has supported its community for generations.

At a time when many independent restaurants and neighborhood businesses are struggling with rising costs, changing consumer habits and increased competition, reaching the 70-year mark is an extraordinary achievement.

It demonstrates the power of family succession, a trusted product, community loyalty and the willingness to adapt.

The Business Lesson

The story of 27th Street Bakery offers several practical lessons for entrepreneurs hoping to build companies that last:

Build around a signature product. The bakery became widely recognized for one distinctive offering—its homemade sweet potato pie.
Protect the brand’s story. Its history and family recipe are not simply sentimental details; they are competitive advantages that distinguish the company from mass-market producers.
Prepare the next generation. Leadership has successfully transferred through three generations, allowing the company to preserve family ownership.
Expand how customers can buy. Nationwide shipping, online ordering and delivery platforms have taken the bakery beyond the geographic limitations of its storefront.
Pursue supplier opportunities. Certification and participation in procurement programs can expose established small businesses to larger contracts and new institutional customers.
Remain connected to the community. The company’s enduring relationship with South Los Angeles has created a level of loyalty that advertising alone cannot purchase.

For entrepreneurs throughout Los Angeles, the Inland Empire and beyond, 27th Street Bakery is proof that a neighborhood business can preserve its identity, expand its reach and build an enterprise capable of outliving its founders.

Seventy years later, the family is still baking—and Los Angeles is still showing up for another slice.

Support This Legacy Business

27th Street Bakery
2700 S. Central Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90011
Tuesday–Saturday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
323-233-3469
Order or learn more at 27thStreetBakery.com

This story was inspired by the CBS Los Angeles report celebrating the bakery’s 70th anniversary . Additional historical information was verified through the 27th Street Bakery , the Los Angeles Conservancy and LA Local .

GO-Biz Continues Business Growth Assistance as $180 Million Tax Credit Window Opens

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 14:44:54 GMT

Inland Empire companies planning to hire, expand or invest may qualify for tax credits, financing assistance and no-cost guidance from the state. California business owners do not have to navigate growth, permitting, financing and state regulations alone. The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, commonly known as GO-Biz, continues to provide no-cost assistance to companies seeking to start, remain or expand in California.

Services include help identifying business incentives, selecting sites, navigating permits, resolving regulatory challenges, accessing international markets and working with state agencies.

One of the most immediate opportunities is the California Competes Tax Credit, a competitive income tax credit for businesses that want to locate, remain or grow in the state.

GO-Biz is accepting applications for the first 2026–27 funding period through August 10, 2026. Businesses of any size, industry or California location may compete for more than $180 million in available tax credits. Applications are evaluated using factors that include the number of full-time jobs created, the amount of investment proposed and the project’s importance to the state or regional economy.

GO-Biz is also offering an application webinar on July 30 from 3 to 4 p.m. Pacific. A recorded webinar, application guide and frequently asked questions are available for businesses that cannot attend.

Why This Matters for Inland Empire Businesses

The program could be particularly relevant to Inland Empire companies preparing to open another location, increase hiring, purchase equipment, expand manufacturing or make other significant investments.

The tax credit is competitive and not every applicant will receive an award. However, smaller businesses should not assume the program is reserved only for large corporations. Eligibility is open to businesses of all sizes, and the economic importance of a project to its region is among the factors considered.

For business owners who are not ready to pursue the California Competes Tax Credit, GO-Biz provides access to several other forms of assistance.

Its business incentives resources include information about research and development tax credits, funding for employee training, manufacturing-related sales and use tax exemptions, zero-emission vehicle infrastructure incentives and utility discounts for qualifying high-energy businesses. GO-Biz consultants also provide confidential, no-cost assistance to help companies identify relevant tax credits, grants and financing programs.

Businesses struggling with licenses, certifications or regulatory requirements can also request assistance. GO-Biz helps companies understand local, state and federal registration processes and identify the permits they may need to start, maintain, relocate or expand their operations.

California’s network of Small Business Support Centers provides another entry point. Through the California Office of the Small Business Advocate, entrepreneurs can access no-cost one-on-one consulting and no-cost or low-cost training on business planning, financing, marketing, e-commerce, resiliency and growth. The Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center Network serves entrepreneurs in Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

Companies interested in international markets may also explore the California State Trade Expansion Program. Its Export Voucher can reimburse eligible small businesses for up to 75% of pre-approved export promotion expenses, with reimbursement capped at $10,000 per federal fiscal year. Eligible activities may include trade shows, international marketing materials, export-related services and website globalization.

What Business Owners Should Do Now

Business owners considering the California Competes Tax Credit should begin by documenting their proposed investment, projected hiring, expansion timeline and expected economic impact.

They should also:

Review the eligibility requirements and application guide.
Attend or watch the California Competes webinar.
Gather financial, employment and project information before beginning the application.
Contact GO-Biz for no-cost guidance.
Speak with a local Small Business Development Center advisor for additional assistance.

The larger opportunity is not limited to one tax credit. GO-Biz operates as a gateway to state programs that many entrepreneurs may not know exist.

For Inland Empire businesses preparing to grow, the first step may be as simple as asking what assistance is available before making the next major investment.

Southern California Small Businesses Can Compete for Energy Department Contracts

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 14:37:48 GMT

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Beyond the Bank: Alternative Funding Options for Inland Empire Small Businesses

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 13:19:17 GMT

For Inland Empire small business owners, a bank denial can feel like the end of the road—especially when customers are waiting, contracts are available and growth opportunities require immediate capital. A business may be too new to meet traditional lending requirements. Revenue may fluctuate throughout the year. The owner’s credit profile may not fit a bank’s underwriting standards, or the application process may take longer than the opportunity allows. But a bank’s “no” does not necessarily mean the business cannot move forward.

A business may be too new to meet traditional lending requirements. Revenue may fluctuate throughout the year. The owner’s credit profile may not fit a bank’s underwriting standards, or the application process may take longer than the opportunity allows.

But a bank’s “no” does not necessarily mean the business cannot move forward.

Alternative financing can provide entrepreneurs with access to capital based on invoices, purchase orders, sales revenue or other business activity. These funding tools may help a company stabilize cash flow, fulfill a contract, purchase inventory or respond to an opportunity that cannot wait several months for approval.

They can also be more expensive than traditional loans. Business owners should carefully review the fees, repayment terms and potential risks before signing an agreement.

Here are three alternative financing options Inland Empire businesses should understand.

1. Factoring: Turning Unpaid Invoices Into Working Capital

Factoring, also known as accounts receivable financing, allows a business to receive cash from an invoice before the customer pays it.

How it works:

A business completes a job or delivers goods and sends an invoice to its customer. A factoring company purchases the invoice and advances a percentage of its value, sometimes within 24 to 48 hours.

When the customer pays the invoice, the factoring company releases the remaining balance to the business after deducting its fees.

Why businesses consider factoring

Factoring can:

Provide faster access to working capital
Base approval largely on the customer’s ability to pay
Help cover payroll, supplies and operating expenses
Reduce the wait between completing a job and receiving payment
Provide funding without taking out a traditional long-term loan

Factoring may be particularly useful for contractors, staffing firms, transportation companies, manufacturers, consultants and service providers that regularly invoice established customers.

Before entering an agreement, business owners should determine whether the factoring arrangement includes recourse, meaning the business may remain responsible if the customer does not pay.

2. Purchase Order Financing: Funding the Order Before It Is Filled

Purchase order financing is designed for businesses that receive a confirmed customer order but do not have enough cash to purchase the inventory or materials needed to fulfill it.

How it works:

A customer submits a legitimate purchase order. The financing company then pays the business’s supplier directly for the products, materials or inventory needed to complete the order.

After the goods are delivered and the customer pays, the financing company deducts its fees and releases the remaining proceeds to the business.

Why businesses consider PO financing

Purchase order financing can:

Help a company accept larger orders
Provide capital without requiring the owner to pay suppliers upfront
Support businesses that do not qualify for conventional financing
Prevent a business from turning down a valuable contract
Help a growing company build relationships with larger customers

This option may work well for wholesalers, distributors, importers, manufacturers and other product-based companies.

Business owners should confirm that the profit margin on the order is large enough to cover financing costs and still produce a worthwhile return.

3. Revenue-Based Financing: Repayment That Follows Sales

Revenue-based financing provides a business with upfront capital in exchange for a percentage of future revenue until an agreed-upon repayment amount is reached.

How it works:

The financing company advances the funds. The business then repays a percentage of its weekly or monthly revenue.

When sales decline, the payment may decrease. When sales increase, the business generally repays more.

Unlike an equity investor, the financing company does not typically receive ownership in the business.

Why businesses consider revenue-based financing.

This option can:

Provide capital based primarily on sales performance
Adjust payments as revenue rises or falls
Allow owners to retain control of their companies
Offer an alternative for businesses with consistent deposits but limited credit history
Provide funding more quickly than some traditional loan programs

Revenue-based financing may appeal to restaurants, retailers, salons, wellness companies, e-commerce businesses, subscription services and other companies with consistent sales.

However, convenience can come at a significant cost. Owners should calculate the total repayment amount—not just the weekly or monthly payment—and determine how the withdrawals may affect daily cash flow.

Alternative Financing Can Be a Strategy—Not Just a Last Resort

Alternative financing is sometimes viewed as funding for businesses that cannot qualify for anything else. In practice, it can also be a strategic tool when timing, flexibility or the structure of a transaction matters more than obtaining the lowest possible interest rate.

For minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned and family-owned businesses that have historically faced barriers to capital, these options may help close the gap between having an opportunity and being financially positioned to pursue it.

Used responsibly, alternative financing may help a business:

Improve short-term cash flow
Fulfill larger contracts
Purchase inventory or materials
Respond to time-sensitive opportunities
Build a stronger operating history
Reduce dependence on slow approval processes

The goal should not simply be to obtain money. The goal should be to secure the right capital, at the right cost, for a clearly defined business purpose.

Questions to Ask Before Accepting Alternative Financing

Before signing an agreement, business owners should ask:

What is the total amount I will repay?
What fees will be charged?
How often will payments be withdrawn?
Is a personal guarantee required?
What happens if my customer pays late?
Can the financing company place a lien on my business assets?
Is there a penalty for early repayment?
Will the financing improve or strain my cash flow?
Is the expected profit from the opportunity greater than the cost of the financing?

Owners should also consider reviewing the agreement with an attorney, accountant or trusted business adviser.

When the Bank Says “No,” Explore the Full Capital Landscape

A traditional bank loan remains one of the most affordable funding options for many businesses, but it is not the only option.

Entrepreneurs may also explore Community Development Financial Institutions, credit unions, SBA-backed lenders, microloan programs, local revolving loan funds, grants and business-development organizations before selecting a higher-cost financing product.

For Inland Empire businesses facing an immediate cash-flow challenge or a time-sensitive opportunity, factoring, purchase order financing and revenue-based financing may provide a path forward.

The key is to understand the numbers, compare multiple offers and choose financing that strengthens the business rather than creating a new financial burden.

The BBOP Center assists Inland Empire entrepreneurs with understanding capital options, preparing for funding and identifying financial strategies that support sustainable growth.

Up to $5,000 in Thrive Grants Available in Riverside County Small Business Thrive Program

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:52:40 GMT

The Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (OCIE SBDC) Network has partnered with the Riverside County Office of Economic Development to help entrepreneurs launch new businesses and assist existing small businesses that continue to recover from the economic impacts of the pandemic.

Through the Riverside County Small Business Thrive Program, eligible applicants may qualify for grant awards of $1,500, $2,500, or $5,000 to start or grow their businesses.

Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Economic Recovery Program, the Thrive Program provides both financial assistance and business support to help entrepreneurs build stronger, more sustainable businesses.

What's Required?

To be eligible for a grant, qualifying applicants must:

Meet all program eligibility requirements
Complete an approved small business training program
Participate in one-on-one business consulting through the OCIE SBDC
Attend a Financial Literacy webinar presented by AmPac Business Capital

The OCIE SBDC provides the required training, advising, and consulting to help businesses successfully complete the application process. Grant award decisions are made by Riverside County—not the OCIE SBDC.

Business Training at No Cost

Whether you're launching your first business, strengthening your existing company, or preparing for your next stage of growth, the OCIE SBDC provides no-cost expert advising, practical training, and personalized one-on-one support to help you build a stronger, more successful business. Training topics include:

Business planning
Marketing and sales
Financial management
Human resources
Licensing and permits
Business growth strategies, and more

Participants also receive hands-on support in taking a business from concept to customer, including opportunities to validate products through e-commerce, local marketplaces, and retail channels.

All programs are led by experienced OCIE SBDC business advisors and industry experts.

Ready to Thrive?

Explore upcoming workshops, connect with the OCIE SBDC intake team, and learn how the Riverside County Small Business Thrive Program can help you start or grow your business.

Learn more and register today here: https://ociesmallbusiness.org/riverside-county-thrive

Pop-Up Markets Become One of the Hottest Ways to Build a Brand

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 04:16:31 GMT

(INLAND EMPIRE) For many small businesses, the next big opportunity isn't opening another storefront. It's setting up a tent. Across Southern California, pop-up markets, artisan fairs, food festivals, maker markets, and community events are becoming powerful platforms for entrepreneurs to introduce their products, build loyal followings, and grow their brands.

From the Ontario Night Market to the Riverside Artswalk , these events are attracting thousands of visitors eager to discover local businesses, handcrafted products, specialty foods, and unique shopping experiences.

For entrepreneurs, that's more than a busy weekend. It's a marketing strategy.

Building Relationships Before Building a Store

For years, launching a retail business often meant signing a long-term lease and investing thousands of dollars before meeting the first customer. Today's entrepreneurs are taking a different path. Pop-up events allow business owners to test products, gather customer feedback, refine pricing, and build brand awareness—often with far less risk than opening a permanent location.

Many successful businesses began with a folding table, a canopy, and a willingness to introduce themselves to the community.

More Than Making Sales

Experienced vendors say the greatest value of a pop-up isn't always what happens at the cash register. It's what happens after the event. Every conversation becomes an opportunity to gain a social media follower, collect an email address, receive customer feedback, or create a repeat customer. For many entrepreneurs, the goal isn't simply selling a candle, T-shirt, pastry, or handcrafted gift. It's creating a customer who returns again and again.

Creating Experiences Customers Remember

Consumers today are increasingly looking for experiences, not just transactions. That's one reason community markets continue to grow in popularity. Visitors enjoy meeting the people behind the products, hearing the stories that inspired a business, watching demonstrations, tasting samples, and supporting local entrepreneurs. That personal connection is something online retailers often struggle to replicate.

A Launchpad for New Businesses

Pop-up events have also become an important entry point for first-time entrepreneurs. Many businesses begin by selling at farmers markets, neighborhood festivals, or arts events before eventually opening retail locations, expanding into wholesale, or launching e-commerce stores.

For entrepreneurs by necessity, the model offers an affordable way to start building revenue while learning what customers truly want.

Why It Matters

The Inland Empire is home to thousands of talented makers, artisans, food entrepreneurs, designers, and small business owners. Community markets give those entrepreneurs visibility they might never achieve through advertising alone. As cities continue investing in placemaking and community events, pop-up markets are becoming more than weekend attractions. They're becoming business incubators.

Make the Most of Your Next Pop-Up Event

Before your next market or festival:

Create a simple QR code that links to your website or newsletter.
Collect customer email addresses for future promotions.
Offer samples or product demonstrations when appropriate.
Display your social media handles prominently.
Tell the story behind your business—not just what you sell.
Take photos and videos throughout the event for future marketing.
Invite customers to visit your online store after the event.

Local Events to Explore

Entrepreneurs looking to increase visibility may want to explore opportunities through:

Ontario Night Market
Riverside Artswalk
Local farmers markets throughout Riverside and San Bernardino counties
Community festivals and seasonal maker fairs
Chambers of Commerce and downtown association events

UBJ Opportunity Take

The most successful entrepreneurs don't wait for customers to find them—they go where customers are already gathering. Pop-up markets offer more than a place to sell products. They provide an opportunity to tell your story, test new ideas, build lasting relationships, and turn first-time shoppers into lifelong customers. In today's marketplace, a single weekend event can spark the beginning of a thriving business.

Ontario's Next Big Opportunity: How "Capital City Ontario" Could Transform the Inland Empire Region

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 02:33:16 GMT

(ONTARIO, CA) For years, the Toyota Arena has been one of the Inland Empire's premier destinations for concerts, hockey, and major events. Soon, it may become the centerpiece of something much bigger.

Just east of the arena, one of the region's most ambitious mixed-use projects—one designed to transform surface parking lots into a vibrant district where people can live, work, dine, and gather year-round is underway.

For entrepreneurs and small business owners, the project represents more than new construction. It represents new customers.

A New Downtown Experience

The development envisions a walkable, mixed-use neighborhood adjacent to Toyota Arena featuring residential housing, restaurants, retail, public gathering spaces, and entertainment. At full build-out, Adept's long-range vision includes up to 2,000 residential units, approximately 130,000 square feet of retail and dining, and 75,000 square feet of public open space.

The City of Ontario is planning complementary investments around the project, including an entertainment district envisioned with restaurants, live entertainment venues, a performing arts center, hotel accommodations, and additional public amenities.

Together, the public and private investments could reshape the area into one of Southern California's most active entertainment destinations.

More Than Apartments

While new housing often captures headlines, mixed-use developments create something equally valuable: economic ecosystems. Residents need coffee shops, fitness studios, childcare providers, accountants, salons, pet services, restaurants, insurance agents, financial advisors, medical offices, and countless other neighborhood businesses.

Every new apartment creates demand for local entrepreneurs.

Every event at Toyota Arena becomes another opportunity for businesses to attract visitors before and after concerts, hockey games, and community events.

Creating a Place to Gather

A centerpiece of the vision is the proposed Ontario Arena Plaza, a two-acre public gathering space between Toyota Arena and the Adept development. Plans call for landscaped public spaces, water features, outdoor gathering areas, and restaurant concepts designed to encourage visitors to linger rather than simply arrive for an event and leave afterward. City planning documents describe the plaza as the "living room" of the future entertainment district—an economic catalyst connecting arena visitors with surrounding restaurants, retailers, and businesses.

Why It Matters for Small Business

Large developments often generate headlines because of their construction budgets. The bigger story is what happens after the ribbon cutting. Restaurants need local suppliers. Retailers need accountants and marketing firms.

Property managers hire landscapers, maintenance companies, security firms, cleaning services, and technology providers. Professional service firms gain new clients. Independent retailers gain new foot traffic. Entrepreneurs gain access to a growing customer base.

For Inland Empire business owners, developments like this can create years of opportunity—not just during construction, but long after the last building opens.

A New Chapter for Ontario

Ontario has spent the past decade establishing itself as a logistics, convention, and aviation powerhouse.

Now it's adding another dimension: destination placemaking.

The city's broader Arena District plan includes approximately 700 residential units, commercial space, public plazas, restaurants, entertainment venues, and future phases featuring a performing arts theater, hotel, and additional mixed-use development. Construction on the initial phase began in 2025.

As the project succeeds, the district won't simply bring more visitors to Ontario. It could create one of the Inland Empire's strongest environments for entrepreneurs looking to open, expand, or relocate their businesses.

Photo Credit: Ontario Ranch Life

AI Comes to Mainstreet: Inland Empire SBDC Helps Small Businesses Turn Artificial Intelligence into Everyday Advantage

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 23:56:41 GMT

Artificial intelligence is no longer just for Silicon Valley. It's helping Inland Empire entrepreneurs write marketing campaigns, create social media content, answer customer emails, build business plans, design presentations, and save hours of administrative work every week.

And local business advisors are making sure small businesses don't get left behind. The Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (OCIE SBDC) has begun integrating artificial intelligence into its training, workshops, and one-on-one advising, introducing entrepreneurs to practical tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Canva AI, and other business automation platforms.

The goal isn't to replace people—it's to help entrepreneurs spend less time on repetitive tasks and more time growing their businesses.

For many small business owners, time is their most limited resource. A restaurant owner may spend hours writing social media posts. A consultant may struggle to create proposals. A nonprofit leader may spend an entire day drafting a grant application. AI-powered tools can help produce a strong first draft in minutes, giving business owners more time to focus on serving customers and generating revenue.

Across the Inland Empire, entrepreneurs are already putting AI to work in practical ways:

Drafting marketing emails and newsletters
Creating social media graphics and videos
Writing product descriptions for online stores
Summarizing meeting notes
Developing business plans and pitch decks
Conducting market research
Responding to customer inquiries
Translating content into multiple languages

For many microbusinesses with one or two employees, AI functions like an extra member of the team—helping owners accomplish work that previously required hiring outside specialists.

That can be especially meaningful for startups and entrepreneurs by necessity, where every dollar and every hour matter.

Opportunity Through Technology

While headlines often focus on whether artificial intelligence will replace jobs, local business advisors see another story unfolding.

For small businesses, AI is becoming an equalizer. It allows entrepreneurs to produce professional-quality marketing, organize information more efficiently, improve customer service, and make data-informed decisions without needing a large staff or expensive software.

Like the arrival of email, websites, or social media, AI represents another shift in how business gets done. Those who learn to use it thoughtfully may find themselves better equipped to compete in an increasingly digital economy.

For the Inland Empire's small businesses, the question is no longer whether artificial intelligence is coming. It's already here. The opportunity is learning how to use it wisely.

Two IE Innovators are Helping Communities Grow Food—and Income From Their Own Back Yard

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 21:29:57 GMT

When most people think about starting a business, they don't imagine mealworms.

But for Dr. Gina Oliver and Richard Hutchison , two Inland Empire innovators from Yucaipa, that unlikely idea became the foundation for a company with the potential to transform food production, sustainability, and economic opportunity.

The founders of From the Land set out to solve two growing challenges: food insecurity and the high cost of traditional agriculture. Their solution is a compact, energy-efficient micro-farming system that allows families and entrepreneurs to produce food—and potentially generate income—from small spaces.

Their journey accelerated after participating in California's small business support ecosystem. They received business guidance, technical assistance, and a $10,000 California Dream Fund grant, which helped them refine their business model and build a working prototype. They later secured a $100,000 Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant, allowing them to continue developing their technology.

Their farming system is designed to operate off the electrical grid using proprietary technology that combines solar power, environmental monitoring, and sustainable growing methods. One early demonstration focused on raising mealworms, creating multiple revenue streams through fertilizer, reptile feed, and other agricultural products. The founders envision adapting the same technology for vegetables, herbs, poultry, and other small-scale farming applications.

Since then, the company has continued to grow. Through programs at the University of California, Riverside, the founders refined their concept, won the SoCal OASIS Pitch Challenge , joined the EPIC startup program, and secured additional funding—including a $250,000 Catalyst Fund grant —to expand their "Littlest Big Farm" concept.

For Inland Empire communities where access to healthy food and economic opportunity can be limited, the company's vision extends beyond farming. Their goal is to create neighborhood-scale micro-farms that help residents grow food, lower costs, and build small businesses from their own properties.

Opportunity doesn't always arrive in the form of a large employer moving into town. Sometimes it begins with an entrepreneur who sees a problem differently.

From the Land demonstrates how technical assistance, mentoring, and strategic funding can help transform an innovative idea into a business with the potential to create jobs, strengthen local food systems, and expand economic mobility throughout the Inland Empire.

Thinking about starting or growing a business?

The Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides no-cost one-on-one business advising , workshops, and guidance on financing, marketing, government contracting, and business growth for entrepreneurs throughout Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

New Federal Housing Law and Opportunities for the Inland Empire

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 14:47:58 GMT

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, signed into law on July 11, 2026, represents one of the most comprehensive federal housing policy packages enacted in decades—and could create significant opportunities for Inland Empire communities, developers, small businesses and residents seeking greater economic mobility.

According to an analysis by the Bipartisan Policy Center, the final legislation brings together provisions from more than 60 previously introduced bills, including 36 measures with bipartisan sponsorship. The package addresses nearly every part of the housing system, from development approvals and affordable housing financing to manufactured housing, homeownership, community banking and neighborhood revitalization.

After months of negotiations, the Senate approved the legislation by an 85–5 vote on June 22, followed by a 358–32 vote in the House on June 23.

What’s in the Final Deal?

The final law combines major elements of earlier House and Senate housing proposals while preserving several negotiated compromises.

Among the most notable provisions, the law:

Raises the cap on the Rental Assistance Demonstration program by 100,000 units.
Authorizes the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery program for three years.
Creates a new Moving to Work program cohort focused on economic opportunity and pathways to independence.
Retains nine community banking provisions initially included in the House legislation.
Restricts certain large institutional investors from purchasing additional single-family homes while maintaining an exception for properties constructed or acquired specifically for rental use.
Establishes a HUD renter-outreach resource for tenants living in properties owned by institutional investors.

For the Inland Empire , however, some of the law’s most consequential provisions are those designed to accelerate housing construction, unlock underused property and expand access to capital.

More Resources for Cities That Build Housing

The law establishes a $200 million annual Innovation Fund for local governments and tribal communities that demonstrate measurable increases in housing production.

Communities could qualify by adopting policies such as streamlined permitting, density bonuses, zoning reforms and faster development approvals. The program is authorized for seven years.

For Inland Empire cities confronting rapid population growth and housing affordability challenges, the fund could provide additional resources to modernize permitting systems, increase planning capacity and move housing projects through the approval process more efficiently.

That could also create opportunities for local planning firms, architects, engineers, environmental consultants, technology providers and businesses that help cities improve development processes.

New Support for Planning and Infrastructure

The legislation creates a competitive HUD grant program to help cities, counties, tribal governments and regional planning agencies undertake housing-related planning and community development.

Eligible activities include updating regulatory processes, increasing inspection capacity and coordinating housing development with transportation planning.

This provision may be especially important for the Inland Empire , where housing growth must be coordinated with transportation, employment centers, schools, utilities and other infrastructure.

It could help communities better connect new housing to major job corridors, transit systems and commercial districts—while generating contracting opportunities for local consultants, construction professionals and professional-service firms.

Converting Vacant Buildings Into Housing

The law also creates the Revitalizing Empty Structures Into Desirable Environments Act, or RESIDE Act, pilot program.

The program will help local governments convert vacant commercial and industrial buildings into affordable housing, with priority given to economically distressed communities and Opportunity Zones.

Across the Inland Empire, this could support the redevelopment of underused office buildings, aging shopping centers, vacant retail properties and obsolete commercial spaces.

Adaptive-reuse projects can create opportunities for:
General contractors and subcontractors
Architects and engineers
Environmental and remediation firms
Interior designers
Property managers
Building-material suppliers
Landscapers and maintenance providers
Neighborhood-serving retailers and restaurants

Transforming vacant buildings can also place new residents closer to existing businesses, helping restore foot traffic and consumer spending in older commercial corridors.

More Affordable Housing Financing

The law makes affordable housing construction an eligible use of Community Development Block Grant funding. It also increases the amount banks may invest in affordable housing and community development projects through public-welfare investments—from 15% to 20% of their capital and surplus.

These changes could expand the financing available for affordable and mixed-income developments, particularly when federal resources are combined with state, county, city and private investment.

For the Inland Empire development community , this could make it easier to assemble complex financing packages and move projects that might otherwise remain financially infeasible.

It may also strengthen opportunities for community development financial institutions, minority depository institutions, mission-oriented lenders and nonprofit housing organizations.

Faster Environmental Reviews

Several sections of the law are intended to reduce duplication and delay in federal environmental reviews.

The legislation expands categorical exclusions for certain federally supported housing activities, gives HUD greater authority to delegate environmental responsibilities to state and local governments, and streamlines reviews for smaller projects, infill developments and certain affordable housing activities.

The reforms do not eliminate local or state development requirements. However, they may reduce the time and administrative expense associated with overlapping federal reviews.

For developers, shorter approval timelines can lower carrying costs and reduce uncertainty. For small contractors and professional firms, projects that move forward more quickly can translate into more consistent work and faster payment cycles.

Pre-Approved Housing Designs

Through the Accelerating Home Building Act, local governments and tribes may receive grants to adopt pre-reviewed housing designs for accessory dwelling units, duplexes, townhomes and other forms of affordable housing.

This could help Inland Empire cities standardize commonly requested designs and shorten review times for property owners and small-scale developers.

Pre-approved plans could make it easier for:
Homeowners to add accessory dwelling units.
Small builders to complete infill projects.
Families to create multigenerational housing.
Property owners to generate rental income.
Communities to add housing without relying solely on large developments.

For entrepreneurs, this provision may create a new market for firms specializing in ADUs , prefabricated construction, permitting assistance, financing and property management.

Expanded Opportunities in Manufactured and Modular Housing

The legislation includes an entire title focused on manufactured and modular housing.

It eliminates the permanent-chassis requirement for certain manufactured homes, increases FHA-insured manufactured housing loan limits, supports the preservation of manufactured housing communities and directs HUD to identify barriers facing modular housing developers.

Manufactured and modular construction could be particularly valuable in the Inland Empire because it may allow housing to be produced more efficiently and at a lower cost than some traditional construction methods.

The reforms may generate opportunities for local manufacturers, transportation companies, site-preparation contractors, installers, utility providers and businesses supporting manufactured-home communities.

Greater Access to Small Mortgages

The law authorizes an FHA pilot program designed to expand access to mortgages of less than $100,000. It also requires federal regulators to examine how fees and mortgage-originator compensation practices affect the availability of smaller loans.

Although many Inland Empire homes cost substantially more than $100,000, small-dollar mortgages may still support the purchase or rehabilitation of manufactured homes, homes in certain rural areas and lower-cost properties requiring repairs.

Greater access to responsible mortgage financing could help more renters begin building equity while creating additional business for community lenders, mortgage professionals, real estate agents, appraisers and housing counselors.

Appraisal Workforce Opportunities

The legislation reforms appraisal licensing and training, adds flexibility for trainee appraisers a nd authorizes grants supporting appraisal workforce development.

This could create new career pathways for Inland Empire residents while helping address appraisal shortages that can delay real estate transactions.

For workforce-development organizations, colleges and professional associations, the provision presents an opportunity to introduce more residents— including people from communities historically underrepresented in the profession —to appraisal careers.

Strengthening Community Banks and Local Lending

The final law retains nine provisions focused on community banks and credit unions.

Among other changes, the legislation supports the formation of new community banks and minority depository institutions, establishes greater regulatory flexibility for smaller financial institutions and formalizes a mentor-protégé program pairing large banks with smaller, rural and minority-owned institutions.

A stronger community banking sector could benefit Inland Empire entrepreneurs who often struggle to obtain financing from larger institutions.

Locally focused banks and credit unions may be more willing to evaluate borrowers based on community relationships, business potential and local market knowledge. That could expand access to mortgages, construction financing, small-business loans and community development capital.

Limiting Institutional Purchases of Single-Family Homes

The Homes Are for People, Not Corporations provision restricts large institutional investors that own at least 350 single-family homes from purchasing additional newly available single-family homes.

The law includes exceptions, including for institutional investors purchasing or constructing homes specifically intended for the rental market.

The provision may give individual buyers a better opportunity to compete for certain homes, although its ultimate effect will depend on implementation and the availability of housing in each local market.

For Inland Empire families, improved access to homeownership can support long-term wealth creation. Homeownership also generates economic activity for real estate professionals, lenders, insurance agents, contractors, furniture stores and home-service businesses.

Why this Housing Bill is Important to Inland Empire Business and Communities

Housing policy is also economic-development policy.

When employees cannot afford to live near their jobs, businesses face longer commutes, higher turnover and greater difficulty recruiting workers. Housing instability can also affect attendance, productivity and household spending.

Increasing the supply of housing at a variety of price points could help Inland Empire employers attract and retain workers while allowing more residents to live closer to employment opportunities.

New housing development also supports a broad network of small and microbusinesses—not only large developers and construction companies.

Projects require surveyors, electricians, plumbers, roofers, painters, landscapers, security firms, caterers, marketing companies, accountants, attorneys, insurance brokers and dozens of other local vendors.

Once residents move in, they create demand for childcare, healthcare, retail, restaurants, transportation and personal services.

An Economic-Mobility Opportunity

For working families, housing is one of the most important foundations of economic mobility. Stable and affordable housing makes it easier for people to remain employed, pursue education, start businesses and accumulate savings. Homeownership can provide an opportunity to build intergenerational wealth, while affordable rental housing can give families the financial breathing room needed to invest in their futures.

The new law also supports whole-home repair programs that can provide grants or forgivable loans to homeowners and landlords for property repairs and modifications.

For lower-income homeowners and older adults, these resources could help preserve existing homes, prevent displacement and support aging in place. They could also generate work for local repair contractors and skilled tradespeople.

What the Inland Empire Should Watch Next

The passage of the legislation is only the beginning. Federal agencies must now develop regulations, launch grant programs and establish implementation timelines. Inland Empire cities, counties, housing authorities, developers, lenders and community organizations should begin identifying projects and partnerships that could benefit.

Local leaders should pay particular attention to:

HUD planning and housing-production grants
The $200 million annual Innovation Fund
Commercial-to-residential conversion funding
Whole-home repair pilot programs
Manufactured and modular housing reforms
Community bank and minority depository institution initiatives
Appraisal workforce-development grants
Changes to CDBG and HOME funding
Pre-approved housing design programs

The most successful Inland Empire communities will likely be those that begin preparing early—building partnerships, identifying underused properties, reviewing local permitting systems and creating pipelines of projects that can compete for new federal resources .

The Bottom Line

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act will not solve the region’s housing affordability crisis on its own. Land costs, interest rates, construction expenses, infrastructure needs and local approval processes will remain significant challenges.

However, the legislation provides new tools that could help Inland Empire communities build and preserve more housing, revitalize underused properties, strengthen local financial institutions and create pathways to homeownership.

For the region’s business and development community, the law represents more than a housing package. It is a potential pipeline of investment, contracts, jobs, entrepreneurship and neighborhood renewal.

Source: Bipartisan Policy Center, “Inside the Deal: What’s in the Final 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act,” updated to reflect the law enacted July 11, 2026.

California Budget Advances Adult Learning with Calbright College

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:43:11 GMT

California's newly approved 2026–27 State Budget includes continued investment in Calbright College , signaling the state's ongoing commitment to expanding economic opportunity through education and workforce development.

Following the budget's passage and Governor Gavin Newsom's signature, Calbright College President and CEO Ajita Talwalker Menon thanked state leaders for supporting an education model designed specifically for working-age adults.

The investment reinforces California's strategy of helping adults earn career-focused credentials through flexible, online learning combined with personalized coaching and support—making education more accessible for people balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.

For entrepreneurs and small business owners across the Inland Empire, this investment goes beyond education—it represents an opportunity to strengthen the local workforce.

As businesses continue to struggle with hiring and retaining skilled employees, programs like Calbright can help workers develop in-demand skills in areas such as project management, information technology, cybersecurity, data analysis, and customer relationship management without leaving the workforce.

A stronger talent pipeline benefits employers by:

Expanding the pool of job-ready workers.
Helping existing employees upskill while remaining employed.
Reducing recruitment and training costs.
Improving employee retention through career advancement opportunities.
Supporting business growth with a more adaptable workforce.

For entrepreneurs, the availability of flexible workforce training also makes it easier to hire individuals who are actively investing in their own professional development. Small business owners can encourage employees to pursue credential programs that strengthen skills without requiring traditional classroom schedules.

A Boost for Economic Mobility

The budget investment also supports California's broader goal of increasing economic mobility by creating more pathways into quality careers. For many adults—including career changers, parents returning to the workforce, veterans, and first-generation college students—flexible education can provide a faster route to higher wages and greater financial stability.

Communities like the Inland Empire, where small businesses drive much of the local economy, stand to benefit as more residents gain the skills employers need while entrepreneurs gain access to a stronger, more competitive workforce.

For the Urban Business Journal community, this is another reminder that investing in people remains one of the smartest investments any economy can make. A more skilled workforce doesn't just create better employees—it creates future entrepreneurs, stronger local businesses, and more resilient communities.

Meet Troy A. Small: Marine Corps Vet and CEO Leading Copperwater Consulting

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 04:25:04 GMT

Troy A. Small, founder and President of Copperwater Consulting Inc., has built a remarkable career defined by service, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit. Based in Southern California, Copperwater Consulting is a certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and California Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE), specializing in providing expert consulting services.

A Legacy of Military Service

Troy’s professional journey began in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served as a Heavy Machine Gunner. He attended recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) in San Diego, California, followed by Marine Combat Training and Machine Gunner School at Camp Pendleton. His first assignment stationed him in K-Bay, Hawaii, where he deployed to the Gulf War and participated in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm as a Heavy Machine Gunner Team Leader.

Following the war, military cutbacks forced Troy to transition into a new role. He chose Supply Administration, a decision that would profoundly shape his career. While stationed at Headquarters, Marine Security Guard Battalion in Quantico, Virginia, Troy discovered the Purchasing and Contracting (P&C) field. Drawn by the versatility and challenge of the role, he trained to become a P&C Specialist and later served at Headquarters and Service Battalion in Quantico.

Excelling in Leadership Roles

After his time in Quantico, Troy returned to MCRD San Diego as a Contracting Officer. He also served for three years as a Marine Corps Drill Instructor (DI), guiding six training cycles—three as a Green Belt, one as a Black Belt, and two as Series Chief Drill Instructor. During this time, he also held the position of Battalion Operations Chief, demonstrating his dedication to shaping the next generation of Marines.

Troy’s career continued at the Regional Contracting Office at Camp Pendleton, where he served for four years before joining I Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF) in 2007. In 2008, he deployed to Camp Fallujah, Iraq, as the Contracting Chief/Senior Enlisted Advisor for Contracts, supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. He retired from the Marine Corps in August 2009, concluding a distinguished military career.

Transition to Civilian Leadership

After retiring, Troy transitioned into civilian life, working as a defense contractor supporting the U.S. Navy in San Diego. He later became a Navy employee, serving as a GS-13 program manager for six years. Despite his success, Troy’s entrepreneurial aspirations persisted.

In January 2017, Troy founded Copperwater Consulting Inc., taking the first step toward his business ownership goals. A year later, he left his Navy position to dedicate himself fully to Copperwater. During this time, he also joined Skyway Acquisition as Vice President of Marketing and Sales, further broadening his expertise in consulting and business development.

A Commitment to Excellence

Troy’s journey from Marine Heavy Machine Gunner to entrepreneur exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. Under his leadership, Copperwater Consulting continues to thrive, reflecting the values of integrity and service that define Troy’s career.

Semper Fidelis, Troy’s Marine Corps motto, encapsulates his dedication to lifelong loyalty and service. His story inspires others to pursue their passions and lead with purpose, no matter where their journeys begin.

For more information visit copperwaterconsulting.com

Accessing Free Small Business Expertise Is Closer Than You Think

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 17:34:33 GMT

Inland Empire entrepreneurs can access professional business consulting—at no cost.

One of the biggest misconceptions among entrepreneurs is that expert business advice is expensive. In reality, thousands of Inland Empire business owners have access to experienced consultants who can help them launch, grow, finance, and strengthen their businesses—without paying consulting fees.

The Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (IESBDC) , part of the Randall W. Lewis Center for Entrepreneurship at California State University, San Bernardino, provides confidential one-on-one business advising for entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Its mission is simple: help businesses succeed at every stage of their journey.

Whether you're launching your first business, looking to secure financing, preparing to bid on government contracts, or trying to increase sales, the center connects entrepreneurs with specialists who understand the unique challenges facing small businesses.

Services Available

Business owners can receive guidance on topics including:

Business planning
Access to capital and loan readiness
Government contracting and procurement
Marketing and digital strategy
Search engine optimization (SEO)
QuickBooks and accounting systems
Franchise and service-based businesses
Growth planning and operational strategy

Most consulting services are offered at no cost , along with many workshops and training programs held throughout the Inland Empire.

Serving Businesses Across the Inland Empire

The IESBDC serves entrepreneurs through locations in Riverside, Ontario, and Temecula, along with numerous outreach centers across the region, making assistance accessible to business owners throughout the Inland Empire. Entrepreneurs can also take advantage of specialized training, procurement education, and business workshops designed to help companies compete for government and corporate contracts.

Ready to take the next step?

Many entrepreneurs believe they have to figure everything out on their own. They don't. Whether you're a home-based business, a food entrepreneur, consultant, contractor, retailer, nonprofit leader, or growing company, taking advantage of free professional advising can save time, help avoid costly mistakes, and position your business for long-term success.

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Visit the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center to learn more about available services, explore upcoming workshops, or schedule a free consultation with a business advisor.

Opportunity Watch™ is Urban Business Journal's ongoing series highlighting resources, trends, and opportunities that help Inland Empire entrepreneurs and small businesses build stronger, more resilient enterprises.

National CORE Closes $103M Financing for Hyatt

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 12:49:55 GMT

National CORE, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit developers and property managers of affordable housing, has closed approximately $103 million in bond financing to support the transformation of the Ontario Airport Hotel & Conference Center into Hyatt Regency Ontario, an upper-upscale, full-service hospitality destination near Ontario International Airport.

The successful consummation of the bond offerings paves the way to a rapid renovation project that will reimagine the hotel, redefine hospitality in the Inland Empire and drive economic growth in neighboring communities.

“This project represents the rebirth of an iconic property that has long stood at the gateway to our community,” said Jeff Burum, chairman of the board of directors for National CORE. “This is an investment in Ontario and in economic growth that elevates the region for residents, businesses, travelers and the organizations serving this community.”

The project brings together the experienced team of Hyatt as franchisor, Manhattan Hospitality Advisors as hotel operator, M. Arthur Gensler Jr. & Associates, Inc. as architect and National CORE as owner and developer.

“Hyatt Regency Ontario near a major airport will bring a unique value proposition centered on connectivity, convenience, and elevated full-service hospitality. The brand is designed to serve as a dynamic hub for business and leisure travelers by offering expansive meeting and event space, premium food and beverage experiences, flexible gathering areas, and seamless access for travelers in transit,” said Patrick Schumm, senior vice president of franchise operations and owner relations, Hyatt. “Beyond stays, Hyatt Regency hotels are built to attract conferences, corporate meetings, and regional events that generate sustained economic activity and community engagement. We are excited by National CORE’s vision and the opportunity to create a destination that delivers long-term value for travelers, local businesses, and the broader community.”

The bond offerings also mark a major investment in the region and reflect confidence in the project team, the long-term vision for the property and National CORE’s financial strength.

Investor demand for the offering was strong and well in excess of the par amount offered allowing JP Morgan, who served as the sole underwriter, to reduce interest rates to a blended rate for the entire financing (CPACE + Revenue Bonds) of slightly more than 6%.

Robert Diaz, Executive Vice President and project lead with National CORE, noted that “Investors responded to the strength of National CORE’s balance sheet, our longstanding presence in the Inland Empire and our ability to execute complex development projects. This financing structure allowed us to align long-term community investment with a transformational hospitality project that will benefit the region for decades.”

“The highly innovative financing structure we were able to arrange for National CORE was the result of strong collaboration between a team dedicated to making a success out of this effort and was driven by strong partnership from Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), GreenRock Capital, FrostBrownTodd Gibbons, Chapman and Cutler, Orrick and JP Morgan,” said Fred Schuster of FGS Realty Advisors.

“The complexity of structuring the first hospitality tax-exempt bond financing for JLL required creativity and a dedicated team of the best professionals in the business. National CORE’s A-plus credit rating, continued track record of improving the community through development, and National CORE’s vision and dedication to transform this asset were key factors in getting this transaction closed together,” said Marc Schillinger of JLL Capital Markets.

The financing package included approximately $27.3 million in Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) bonds supporting eligible energy-efficiency improvements and approximately $74.5 million in hotel revenue bonds supporting renovation, construction and project-related costs.

“It is great to work with the team at National CORE, which is a leader in building cost-contained, high-performance developments that minimize impact on natural resources and aligns perfectly with the purposes of PACE financing,” said Joe Euphrat, Co-Founder & Managing Principal of GreenRock.

National CORE views the hotel investment as part of a broader long-term strategy to diversify revenue sources and strengthen organizational stability to further fuel its efforts in furtherance of its mission of providing affordable housing and resident services.

National CORE also views the investment as part of a broader workforce development strategy through its “CORE Academy,” including future hospitality career pathways and training opportunities connected to the hotel industry.

“Our mission has always been about investing in communities in ways that create lasting impact,” Burum added. “This project reflects that same philosophy. We are building something that serves the region today while creating opportunities for the future.”

Illustration: National CORE, Inc.

Landmark Legislation Would Accelerate Preservation of Nation’s Aging Affordable Housing

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 12:36:33 GMT

(Photo: National CORE)

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — National CORE is applauding newly introduced federal legislation that would establish a new tax framework designed to preserve America's aging affordable housing while encouraging long-term private investment in rehabilitation projects.

Introduced on July 2 by U.S. Representative Mike Carey (R-Ohio), the Housing Opportunities and Preservation (HOPE) Act seeks to create new funding mechanisms to help preserve and rehabilitate existing affordable rental housing across the country.

The proposal comes as the nation faces a significant affordable housing shortage. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, the United States is currently short 7.2 million affordable and available rental homes for extremely low-income households. At the same time, the average federally assisted rental property is now 36 years old, and nearly 375,000 affordable homes are projected to lose their affordability protections over the next five years.

"The HOPE Act would unlock a major new private funding source for preserving our aging housing stock," said Mike Ruane, President of National CORE. "It's an innovative approach to one of the biggest challenges in affordable housing—ensuring today's affordable homes remain available for future generations."

Housing advocates across the country have increasingly emphasized that preserving existing affordable housing must be a central component of any comprehensive strategy to address the nation's housing crisis.

Over the past year, National CORE has worked alongside Novogradac & Company and a broad coalition of affordable housing organizations to explore innovative financing strategies that support long-term housing preservation.

The coalition includes nonprofit housing developers, preservation advocates, and affordable housing finance experts committed to strengthening the tools available to protect affordable housing for decades to come.

Preserving existing affordable housing is often significantly less expensive than replacing it with new construction. It also helps prevent resident displacement while preserving stable neighborhoods. Despite its importance, however, affordable housing preservation has historically lacked dedicated federal financing tools capable of meeting the growing need.

The HOPE Act seeks to change that.

The legislation would encourage greater private investment by creating a new federal tax framework for qualified affordable housing preservation projects. The proposal includes incentives designed to reward long-term rehabilitation investments while maintaining affordability for low-income residents.

To qualify, properties must:

Be owned by a qualified nonprofit organization, public housing agency, state or local government, or tribal housing agency;
Be at least 15 years old;
Undergo substantial rehabilitation; and
Remain affordable to low-income households for a minimum of 20 years.

"While Congress' permanent expansion of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit last year was historic and critically important for affordable rental housing, particularly new construction, the nation's preservation needs extend well beyond those resources," said Michael Novogradac, Managing Partner of Novogradac & Company. "This legislation provides nonprofit housing owners with a flexible financing tool designed to attract individual investors while complementing—not replacing—the expanded housing tax credit."

Affordable housing leaders say the legislation would also help nonprofit organizations renovate more aging properties while ensuring long-term affordability.

"We need to preserve existing homes so low-income seniors, working families, and people with disabilities can continue living in quality affordable housing without being displaced," said Aaron Gornstein,

President and CEO of POAH. "The HOPE Act will expand private-sector investment, enabling nonprofit organizations to renovate more affordable homes while committing to long-term affordability."

The HOPE Act has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee, where Rep. Carey serves as a member.

7 Lucky Farms Cultivates Community and Collective Power in Riverside

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:33:07 GMT

For Xochitl Alejo, farming has always been about more than growing food.

Raised in a family of farmers, she watched her parents and grandparents carry generations of agricultural knowledge while navigating the challenges of building a life in a new country. Those experiences inspired a vision: create opportunities for immigrant and small-scale farmers to thrive—not by competing alone, but by growing together.

That vision became 7 Lucky Farms , an innovative network that helps independent micro farmers share resources, coordinate land access, strengthen distribution, and reach new markets. Rather than asking small farmers to become larger operations, the model empowers them to remain independent while benefiting from the strength of collaboration.

To turn that vision into a sustainable business, Alejo partnered with Caravanserai – Alliance for Entrepreneurs, a CalOSBA SCALE partner serving the Inland Empire. Through personalized business advising, marketing and sales strategy, website development, and guidance on accessing capital, she refined her business model and strengthened the foundation for long-term growth.

Her hard work culminated after eight months in Caravanserai's SEED Lab accelerator. On April 25, 2026, Alejo joined nine fellow entrepreneurs on stage at the SEED Lab Pitch Competition at Palm Springs' Annenberg Theater. When the audience cast its votes, 7 Lucky Farms earned the Audience Choice Award , recognizing both the strength of the business and the promise of its mission.

Today, Alejo is building more than a farm network.

She's helping create a future where immigrant and small-scale farmers have greater access to land, stronger market opportunities, and the support needed to build sustainable businesses. Her work demonstrates that when entrepreneurs share knowledge, resources, and opportunity, entire communities can grow stronger together.

Xochitl Alejo shows that while every successful entrepreneur doesn't have to build bigger—they can build better together. 7 Lucky Farms is a powerful example of how collaboration, innovation, and community can create new pathways to economic opportunity for small businesses across the Inland Empire.

Photo source: CALOSBA

Susan Gomez Is Building the Inland Empire's Largest Nonprofit Network

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Wed, 20 May 2026 22:52:33 GMT

(INLAND EMPIRE) When people speak about strengthening the Inland Empire, the conversation often centers on business investment, housing, workforce development, or infrastructure. But Susan Gómez believes one of the region's greatest assets is its nonprofit community—and that when nonprofits work together, entire communities become stronger.

As Chief Executive Officer of the Inland Empire Community Collaborative (IECC), Gómez has helped transform what began as a collaborative effort into one of Southern California's most influential nonprofit networks. Today, the organization brings together more than 109 nonprofit agencies across Riverside and San Bernardino counties to share resources, strengthen organizations, and amplify their collective impact.

Born and raised in the Inland Empire, Gómez has spent her career serving others. Before leading IECC, she worked as a special education teacher and dedicated decades to social work supporting individuals with disabilities. Those experiences shaped her belief that lasting change happens when organizations move beyond working in isolation and begin solving problems together.

Under her leadership, IECC has become a regional hub for nonprofit capacity building, collaboration, and public policy advocacy. The organization provides technical assistance, grant writing support, leadership development, and its signature Capacity Building Academy, equipping nonprofit leaders with the skills and strategies needed to build sustainable organizations.

The results are significant.

According to IECC, the collaborative has helped secure more than $22 million in grant funding for the Inland Empire while providing training and capacity-building support to more than 2,300 nonprofit organizations. Those investments have strengthened organizations serving children, families, seniors, veterans, entrepreneurs, and underserved communities throughout the region.

Gómez's leadership extends well beyond her own organization. She serves on the board of the California Association of Nonprofits, is a Líderes Fellow with Hispanics in Philanthropy, participates in the Latino Community Foundation, and co-chairs the Riverside County Nonprofit Roundtable. Through these roles, she advocates for policies that ensure Inland Empire nonprofits have both a voice and a seat at the table when decisions affecting their communities are made.

Her philosophy is simple: stronger nonprofits create stronger communities.

That philosophy is especially important in the Inland Empire, where nonprofit organizations often serve as the first point of contact for families seeking housing assistance, workforce training, youth development, food security, healthcare access, and educational opportunities. By helping nonprofit leaders build stronger organizations, Gómez is also helping strengthen the region's social and economic infrastructure.

Economic prosperity depends on more than successful businesses. It also depends on strong nonprofit organizations that prepare people for opportunity, provide essential services, and advocate for healthier communities.

Susan Gómez has demonstrated that collaboration—not competition—can become one of the Inland Empire's greatest competitive advantages.

As more than 109 organizations work together through the Inland Empire Community Collaborative, the result is a stronger nonprofit sector, more effective community solutions, and a region better equipped to create opportunity for everyone.

For more information visit InlandEmpirecCommunityCollaborative.org.

LA28 Announces Inaugural Resilience ChampionsFUnd Grantees, Furthering Its Goal to Build a More Resilient Los Angeles

Wed, 20 May 2026 02:26:59 GMT

Los Angeles, CA (May 18, 2026) — Building on the foundational Impact and Sustainability Plan, today the LA28 Organizing Committee announced the inaugural cohort of the LA28 Resilience Champions Fund. This new initiative is designed to invest in local nonprofit organizations in the region that are committed to building a more resilient Los Angeles for generations to come. The Fund is just one pillar of the LA28 Resilience Champions Initiative, which will also drive action through pre-Games volunteerism in the communities where the Games will be held.

The LA28 Resilience Champions Fund supports local projects across three priority areas: wildfire resilience and nature restoration, ocean protection, and cooling solutions. These efforts will address the environmental challenges facing Angelenos, particularly in communities most impacted by extreme heat, wildfire risk, and environmental degradation.

“Resilience is built in communities and sustained through collective action,” said Reynold Hoover, LA28 Chief Executive Officer. “Through the LA28 Resilience Champions Fund, we’re investing in local organizations leading solutions rooted in community, driven by ingenuity, and designed to protect the future of Los Angeles.”

Meet the 2026 LA28 Resilience Champions Fund Grantees

LA28 is proud to introduce its first Resilience Champions. These regionally based nonprofits were selected for their expertise, deep community partnerships, and strong alignment with one or more of the Fund’s pillars. Their projects will be based around the communities that the Games will be held in. Together, these organizations represent a diverse portfolio of projects that bring together environmental action and community health to strengthen resilience where Angelenos live, work, and play.

Active SGV : Transforming unused school space into a vibrant, cooling community asset by installing native shade trees, natural seating and recreational play features, expanding access to green space in El Monte.
Amigos de los Rios : Expanding urban tree canopy and installing green infrastructure adjacent to the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, within the Whittier Narrows Zone, to improve visitor access, reduce heat, and enhance resilience.
Chrysalis : Reducing wildfire risk in the Sepulveda Basin in the Valley Zone by deploying a trained resilience workforce to remove hazardous fuels while creating pathways to stable environmental jobs.
Climate Resolve : Transforming a Boyle Heights basketball court near the DTLA Zone into a climate-ready sports hub with a cool basketball court and shaded seating that reduce heat risk and engaging local youth through training programs that build leadership and career pathways in resilience.
Conservation Corps of Long Beach : Training young adults in coastal conservation by restoring wetlands, coastal habitats, and coastal public trails across the shoreline near the Long Beach Zone.
LA Community Garden Council : Converting community gardens into permanent, resident‑run cooling hubs in heat vulnerable neighborhoods. The gardens span from Sunland-Tujunga to East Hollywood to South Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles Urban League : Training youth from fire-affected areas in Pasadena/Altadena within the Pasadena Zone in wildfire resilience and green construction while supporting communities impacted by the 2025 wildfires.
Santa Monica Mountains Fund : Installing a dense native micro-forest in Westwood, adjacent to the Olympic and Paralympic Village, to deliver cooling and restore habitat.

The grant period for these projects starts now, with $100,000 in funding per project. LA28 collaborated with Community Partners and an advisory group of local experts to select the award recipients, ensuring decisions were grounded in community need and local expertise. The advisory group is made up of leaders representing the public, academic, nonprofit, and philanthropic sectors.

Introducing a new LA28 Custom Emblem

LA28 is also introducing its official LA28 Resilience Champions emblem, a symbol representing the three pillars of the LA28 Resilience Champions initiative. Conceptually tied to land, water, and the sun, the emblem reflects the natural elements that shape Los Angeles and the spirit and power of working together to build a more resilient region. It signals action, collective responsibility, and optimism for a more resilient future, illustrated by the three elements rising together.

About the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games

LA28 will bring the Olympic and Paralympic Games to Los Angeles in 2028, uniting more than 15,000 of the world's greatest athletes in a celebration of sport, culture and human potential. Set against a diverse collection of venues only Southern California can deliver, from the Pacific Ocean to Hollywood stages to world-class arenas, Los Angeles will become the third city ever to host three Olympic Games, following 1932 and 1984, and will also host its first ever Paralympic Games. The LA28 Games will celebrate historic milestones including becoming the first Olympic Games in history to allocate more quota spots to women athletes than men, the debut of new Olympic and Paralympic sports and becoming the first Games since 1948 to not build any new permanent infrastructure. Operating as an independently funded, non-profit organization, LA28 has built a strong foundation of successful commercial partnerships, alongside licensing, hospitality and ticketing, with the support of the International Olympic Committee.

About Community Partners

Community Partners is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit intermediary organization and fiscal sponsor that works to foster, launch, and grow creative solutions to community challenges. For over 30 years, hundreds of individuals, groups, foundations, government agencies and other institutions have worked with Community Partners to create new nonprofit projects, establish coalitions, connect with constituents, and manage major regional and statewide philanthropic initiatives. Community Partners’ mission is to nurture and accelerate ideas into action to strengthen communities.

Ontario Housing Community Secures $1 Million Federal Grant

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:56:19 GMT

ONTARIO, Calif. – National CORE and the City of Ontario have secured a $1 million federal Community Project Grant to support a new affordable housing community that will deliver safer streets, reliable transit and opportunity for families along the Holt Boulevard corridor in downtown Ontario.

The funding, provided by U.S. Rep. Norma Torres, was celebrated March 31 at National CORE’s Vista Verde community, located a block from the new property.

Torres said affordable housing is the top request from her constituents and thanked city leaders and National CORE for working closely together to ensure those needs are being met.

“Every family deserves a safe, affordable place to call home, and that starts with investments like this one,” she said. “I hear every day from constituents struggling with the cost of housing, which is why partnerships with organizations like National CORE are so critical. They do not just make promises, they deliver. I’m proud to have helped support this new community and the families who will call it home.”

The new community, known as Vista Verde II, will provide 144 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes for households earning 30% to 60% of the area median income (AMI) at 905 E. Holt Blvd., along with a raft of neighborhood improvements:

Grove Avenue Trail Connector, a protected Class I bicycle and pedestrian path linking neighborhoods from Fourth Street to Holt Boulevard.
ADA-accessible walking paths through Grove Memorial Park, creating safe pedestrian routes where none previously existed.
Sidewalk repairs, ADA upgrades, traffic calming and crosswalk enhancements along Allyn Avenue, supporting Safe Routes to School and neighborhood safety.
10 new bus shelters along key transit corridors.
Expansion of Sunday service on Omnitrans’ sbX Green Line, providing seven-day-a-week access to transit.

Leaders from National CORE and the City of Ontario said Vista Verde II reflects the power of strong public-private partnerships to revitalize neighborhoods and address California’s critical affordable housing shortfall.

“This project is part of a transformation of this community – transit, parks, sidewalks and, of course, vitally needed housing. It’s going to be beautiful. It’s been critical to have this partnership with the city and with Congresswoman Torres, who long has been a champion for our residents,” National CORE President Michael Ruane said.

Ontario Mayor Paul Leon thanked Torres for helping bring needed workforce housing to Ontario.

“Norma is always there for things like this, things that benefit the community. I care about people who care about people and that’s who we have here,” he said.

Tuesday’s event also included remarks from Ellen, a single mom who moved to Vista Verde in 2024 after struggling with medical bills and rising rents that hit $2,000 a month for her one-bedroom home.

“I worked for Walgreens for 20 years, but then I got sick – I got breast cancer. The rent just kept increasing and the bills just kept piling up. It got to the point where I had to pack myself up and go stay with my mom.”

“I was so stressed going through my treatment, and I just kept looking for a new home the whole time. Then, I got the call. I couldn’t believe it. I just love, love, love it here,” she added.

Ellen said she loves the activities provided at the community by the Hope through Housing Foundation, created by National CORE. Her 12-year-old son participates in summer programs and she has taken two free job training classes through CORE Academy.

“I’m very thankful to National CORE and I pray to God that you continue to help families. You don’t know how much this means to us. If I didn’t have National CORE, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” she said.

National CORE Chairman Jeff Burum said individuals like Ellen are why the organization is committed to building new affordable housing.

“This is what we do every day. We believe in community, we believe in families,” he said.

New E-Commerce Accelerator Helps Small Businesses Build Brands That Stand Out Online

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 03:22:38 GMT

(SAN BERNARDINO, CA). For many entrepreneurs, having a great product is only half the battle. Getting customers to notice it—and choose it over hundreds of competitors—is becoming one of the biggest challenges in today's digital marketplace.

That's why the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (OCIE SBDC) has launched a new six-week E-Commerce Accelerator designed to help Inland Empire entrepreneurs strengthen their online businesses. The program focuses on selling through platforms like Amazon, Etsy, and Walmart Marketplace while teaching practical skills in branding, product positioning, photography, packaging, and marketplace optimization.

The timing couldn't be better.

As more consumers shop online, a business's first impression is often a product photo, a logo, or a product description—not a conversation with the owner.

More Than a Logo

One of the accelerator's featured sessions, "Branding, Photography, Visual Content & Packaging," recognizes a growing reality for today's entrepreneurs: customers make purchasing decisions in seconds.

Whether selling handcrafted candles, specialty foods, apparel, beauty products, or home décor, a compelling brand can help a small business stand out in crowded online marketplaces.

The accelerator also covers customer positioning, market demand, financial feasibility, launch planning, and strategies for expanding into national and international marketplaces.

A New Opportunity for Product-Based Businesses

The program is open to both early-stage businesses and established companies looking to expand their reach through e-commerce. Participants will learn how to build stronger product listings, improve visual presentation, understand marketplace algorithms, and develop sustainable growth strategies.

For many Inland Empire entrepreneurs, it's an opportunity to compete with much larger companies—not by outspending them, but by building a clearer, more compelling brand.

A strong brand isn't just about looking professional. It helps businesses earn trust, communicate value, and attract loyal customers. In an online marketplace where shoppers often compare dozens of similar products, thoughtful branding can become a powerful competitive advantage.

For entrepreneurs by necessity and small manufacturers alike, investing in branding may be one of the highest-return investments they make.

Hosted by the OCIE Small Business Development Center , the six-week accelerator helps product-based businesses strengthen their presence on Amazon, Etsy, Walmart Marketplace, and other e-commerce platforms. Topics include branding, photography, packaging, marketplace optimization, financial feasibility, and launch planning.

SB County to Receive $7 Million in Federal Funding for Infrastructure

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 12:50:54 GMT

San Bernardino County will receive nearly $7 million in federal funding to support a series of infrastructure and public safety improvements across the region.

The funding, secured by members of the county’s congressional delegation, will help pay for upgrades to roads, animal shelters, and wastewater and sewer infrastructure, according to a statement posted on the county’s website.

Behavioral health programs and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department search and rescue team will also receive a portion of the funding.

“This funding demonstrates what is possible when local priorities are elevated to the federal level,” said Supervisor Dawn Rowe, chair of the Board of Supervisors, in the statement. “We appreciate our congressional delegation securing federal resources that will have long-term benefits for San Bernardino County.”

The funding is classified as Community Project Funding, a practice formerly known as earmarking. Community Project Funding allows members of Congress to secure federal dollars for projects in their districts, provided the requests are submitted during the annual federal appropriations process, according to the statement.

How this Benefits the Inland Empire Economy

Nearly $7 million in federal infrastructure investment represents more than facility upgrades — it strengthens the economic foundation of one of California’s fastest-growing regions.

Modern sewer systems, improved transportation infrastructure, airport upgrades and enhanced emergency response capabilities make communities more attractive for business development, tourism and long-term residential growth. Infrastructure improvements also help local governments meet environmental standards and reduce risks that can slow development.

For historically under-resourced communities such as Bloomington, Trona and parts of the High Desert, these investments can also help close infrastructure gaps that have limited economic expansion.

In a region where population growth continues to outpace infrastructure investment, targeted federal funding like this helps ensure the Inland Empire remains competitive for new businesses, housing development and job creation.

Ontario Hotel Expands Meeting Space to Support Inland Empire Conferences and Business Events

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:48:31 GMT

A hotel located at the center of one of the Inland Empire’s busiest travel corridors is helping support the region’s growing business travel, conference, and networking economy.

The Delta Hotels by Marriott Ontario Airport , operated by Hogan Hospitality Group , offers modern accommodations and more than 22,000 square feet of event space adjacent to both Ontario International Airport and the Ontario Convention Center .

For many Inland Empire businesses, professional associations, and community organizations, accessible meeting space near a major airport and convention center is an important asset for hosting conferences, training sessions, trade events, and networking gatherings.

The hotel features 303 guest rooms and seven suites , designed to provide comfort and efficiency for both business and leisure travelers. Guests also have access to amenities including an outdoor pool and several dining options within the property.

Meeting and Event Facilities

The property offers 15 meeting rooms , including six breakout rooms, providing flexible space for corporate meetings, workshops, board meetings, and regional business events.

The largest venue can accommodate up to 655 guests , making the hotel suitable for conferences, industry gatherings, nonprofit fundraisers, and business community events connected to the Ontario Convention Center and the broader Inland Empire economy.

With Ontario increasingly serving as a hub for regional conferences and trade events, hotel meeting facilities like these help provide the infrastructure needed for organizations to bring people together for learning, collaboration, and business development.

Dining and Guest Amenities

The hotel provides several on-site dining options that serve both overnight guests and event attendees.

The property’s café offers Starbucks coffee , providing quick-service beverages and light fare. PRIME Steakhouse offers an upscale dinner experience featuring premium steaks, while Sky Harbor Bar provides a social setting with craft drinks, music, and space for informal networking.

For guests needing quick access to food and beverages, the Delta Pantry provides 24-hour grab-and-go items , including breakfast options and snacks. This amenity is available exclusively to Marriott Bonvoy Platinum, Titanium, and Ambassador Elite members .

Supporting Ontario’s Convention and Business Travel Economy

Hotels located near the Ontario Convention Center play a vital role in supporting business travel and regional events.

“We’re excited to welcome Delta Hotels by Marriott Ontario Airport to our family of hotel partners,” said Michael Krouse, president of the Greater Ontario Convention & Visitors Bureau . “Their high-quality accommodations and commitment to exceptional service make them an ideal partner as we continue to support guests visiting the Ontario Convention Center. We look forward to working together to deliver outstanding experiences and exceptional hospitality for convention travelers.”

About Delta Hotels by Marriott

The Delta Hotels by Marriott brand was acquired by Marriott International in April 2015 and is designed as an upscale, full-service hotel brand focused on the needs of modern frequent travelers.

Originally well established in Canada, the brand continues to expand across the United States and international markets.

Why It Matters for the Inland Empire Small Business Community

For small businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit organizations, access to professional meeting and event space is an important part of building relationships and growing opportunities.

Hotels near Ontario International Airport and the Ontario Convention Center often serve as gathering places for networking events, business workshops, association meetings, trade shows, and industry conferences.

These events bring together entrepreneurs, service providers, investors, and community leaders, creating opportunities for collaboration, partnerships, and business growth.

They also generate economic activity for nearby restaurants, transportation services, event vendors, and local retailers — helping circulate business spending throughout the Inland Empire economy.

As the region continues to grow as a destination for conferences and business travel, hospitality venues that can host large meetings while also serving smaller professional gatherings help strengthen the infrastructure that supports entrepreneurship and regional economic development.

For more information visit Delta Hotels Ontario Airport .

Fontana Offers Free Business Workshops to Support Local Entrepreneurs

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 14:36:13 GMT

The City of Fontana, California Economic Development Department is providing a series of free workshops designed to empower the local business community with practical knowledge and skills for success.

The workshops are intended to help entrepreneurs strengthen their business operations while also providing participants the opportunity to receive one-on-one assistance applying for the Fontana Empowerment Loan Fund , a financing program that supports small business growth.

All workshops are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The first session, Record Keeping 101 , will take place on April 1 at the Heritage Neighborhood Center .

The interactive workshop will introduce business owners to the fundamentals of organizing and maintaining business records. Topics will include managing sales and expense tracking, payroll documentation, tax reporting obligations, and both digital and manual recordkeeping systems.

City officials say maintaining accurate records is essential for a financially healthy business. Strong recordkeeping practices not only help businesses remain compliant with IRS and state reporting requirements, but also provide valuable financial insights that support better planning and decision-making.

The session will be led by Brian Kennedy Jr. , ecosystem director at AmPac Business Capital. Kennedy oversees the organization’s business resource center and works to connect entrepreneurs with capital, coaching, and other resources that support business growth.

AmPac Business Capital operates as a network hub designed to help business owners access funding opportunities, professional guidance, and community support.

Entrepreneurs interested in attending the workshop can register online. For questions or additional information, participants may contact the Fontana Economic Development Department at clozano@fontanaca.gov

Rep. Aguilar Announces $1 Million to Expand Inland Empire Artificial Intelligence Education and Workforce Development

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:38:21 GMT

(SAN BERNARDINO, CA) Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-33) announced $1 million in federal grant funding for California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), in collaboration with the University of California, Riverside (UCR), to expand and enhance artificial intelligence (AI) education and workforce development in the Inland Empire. The U.S. National Science Foundation’s Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) Program will provide a $600,000 grant to CSUSB and a $400,000 grant to UCR.

“As the artificial intelligence workforce rapidly expands and evolves, it is essential that students in the Inland Empire have the skills and knowledge they need to have successful careers in this growing field,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar . “This grant funding for CSUSB and UCR is an important investment in our students’ futures, our region’s workforce and our community’s economic development.”

“With this NSF grant, we will launch new academic programs in AI, establish a community-focused AI Help Desk, and expand research opportunities for all students in the Inland Empire,” said Dr. Yunfei Hou, Executive Director of the Leonard Transportation Center and Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at CSUSB. “These efforts will provide students with hands-on experience solving real-world challenges, strengthen the region’s workforce, and create flexible pathways into AI careers.”

“We at UCR are delighted to partner with CSUSB on this grant and provide students in the Inland Empire with a world-class education in AI,” said Dr. Evangelos Papalexakis, Professor and Ross Family Chair in Computer Science at the Computer Science and Engineering Department at UCR . “This grant aligns with our ongoing efforts on interdisciplinary AI education and research and the campus-wide RAISE@UCR AI institute, which encompasses around 100 faculty from different departments and colleges and where AI serves as the connective tissue across disciplines.”

The funding comes as part of the U.S. National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Hispanic-Serving Institutions: Enriching Learning, Programs, and Student Experiences (HSI:ELPSE) grant program. The project, Promoting Regional Opportunities for Practical and Engaged Learning in AI (PROPEL AI), will allow CSUSB to develop new AI-focused academic programs, create an AI Help Desk that supports local businesses and organizations and build inclusive pathways into AI careers for first-generation and underrepresented students. Additionally, the grant funding will allow UCR graduate students to mentor CSUSB undergraduate students on innovative AI research and joint research projects.

$18 Billion and Counting: Why Small Businesses Should Register Now for LA28 Opportunities

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 14:07:41 GMT

LOS ANGELES - The 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games are coming to Los Angeles—and beyond the global spotlight and world-class competition lies a once-in-a-generation economic opportunity for small businesses across the region.

From construction and logistics to catering, staffing, technology, marketing, security, transportation, and professional services, the Games will generate years of contracting and supplier demand. And according to recent information sessions, there’s one system small businesses need to understand clearly: LA28 is using LA RAMP.

LA RAMP: The Official Procurement Pathway for LA28

The Los Angeles Organizing Committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games—LA28—has aligned its supplier outreach with LA RAMP, the Los Angeles Regional Alliance Marketplace for Procurement.

LA RAMP is a centralized procurement platform used by:

The City of Los Angeles
Los Angeles County
Regional and partner agencies
Large public-sector buyers and affiliated initiatives
For small businesses, this is critical: If you are not registered in LA RAMP, you are not visible for LA28-related opportunities. LA RAMP serves as the gateway system where buyers identify vendors, issue solicitations, and source suppliers—often before opportunities are broadly advertised.

What This Means for Small Businesses in the Inland Empire

Unlike traditional "one-off” bids, LA28-related work will flow through layers of procurement—many tied to city and county departments preparing for the Games. Opportunities may appear as:

Infrastructure and facility contracts
Workforce and staffing services
Event operations and logistics
Community programming and outreach
Marketing, media, and communications
Professional and technical services
Even if a contract doesn’t say "Olympics” in the title, it may still support Games readiness.

Why Early Registration Matters

One of the most important takeaways from recent LA28 info sessions is this: Many opportunities are sourced directly from vendor databases:

Buyers search by capability, NAICS code, certifications, and location
Vendors who are registered and complete are contacted first
Waiting for public bid postings often means you’re already late
LA RAMP is not just a formality—it’s an active sourcing tool.

Direct vs. Indirect LA28 Opportunities

Most small businesses will participate indirectly, not as prime Olympic contractors. Pathways include:
Subcontracting with large prime contractors
Providing specialized or local services
Supporting sponsors, partners, and activation teams
Delivering community-based or workforce-related services
In many cases, being local, nimble, and reliable is a competitive advantage

What Small Businesses Should Do Right Now

To position your business for LA28-related work through LA RAMP:

1. Register and complete your LA RAMP profile:

Accurate business description
NAICS codes
Certifications (if applicable)
Service areas
Past performance

2. Prepare a strong capability statement:

One page. Clear. Scannable.
What you do
Who you serve
What makes you different
How you deliver

3. Package your services

Avoid "we do everything.” Lead with 3–5 defined offerings, such as:

Event staffing packages
Catering or hospitality services
Printing and signage bundles
IT or technical field support
Transportation or logistics solutions

4. Build relationships before bids drop. Sign up for advance notices to attend:

Supplier briefings
Procurement summits
City and County vendor events
Sports and entertainment supplier convenings
Procurement is relational—not just transactional.

The Bigger Picture

LA28 is not a single event. It’s a multi-year economic ecosystem touching transportation, workforce development, construction, small business growth, and community engagement.

Small businesses that benefit most will be those that:

Register early
Stay visible
Understand how public procurement actually works
Position themselves as dependable partners

The Games are coming. The systems are already in motion. LA RAMP is where the door is. For more information visit: https://www.rampla.org

Kinetic AI Hub Opens in San Bernardino, Bringing Hands-On Artificial Intelligence Training to the Inland Empire

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 14:31:15 GMT

San Bernardino, CA — Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept reserved for Silicon Valley or global tech firms. On Saturday, February 21, 2026 , the Kinetic AI Hub will officially open its doors at The BBOP Center, offering entrepreneurs, small businesses, nonprofits, and workforce professionals direct access to practical, real-world AI education and application.

Located at 599 N. Arrowhead Avenue, the Kinetic AI Hub was created to help individuals and organizations move beyond awareness and into action—learning how to responsibly deploy emerging technologies to drive growth, improve efficiency, and expand opportunity.

The grand opening event begins at 11:00 a.m. and marks a significant milestone for the Inland Empire, a region increasingly focused on innovation, workforce readiness, and economic mobility.

From Curiosity to Capability

Unlike traditional technology centers that focus heavily on theory, the Kinetic AI Hub emphasizes hands-on training and applied project development. Participants learn how to integrate artificial intelligence into real business and organizational workflows—turning curiosity into practical capability.

The Hub serves a wide range of audiences, including:

Entrepreneurs and small business owners seeking to streamline operations
Nonprofit organizations looking to enhance service delivery and impact
Creatives and social entrepreneurs exploring AI-powered tool
Workforce professionals preparing for the evolving demands of the job market

By centering accessibility and ethical deployment, the Hub aims to ensure that AI adoption benefits the broader community—not just large institutions.

Leadership with Regional Impact

The Kinetic AI Hub is supported by a leadership and advisory team with deep roots in education, technology, entrepreneurship, and workforce development.

Leadership includes Dr. Kim Carter-Tillman, President and CEO, and Donnell Layne , Chief AI Architect of the Kinetic AI Hub, who leads the technical vision and applied learning strategy.

Invited guest speakers include:

Don Harjo Daves-Rougeaux , Senior Advisor of Generative AI to the State Chancellor
Diana Z. Rodriguez , Chancellor, San Bernardino Community College District
Ciera Foster , Creative and Social Entrepreneur
X. Eyee , CEO of Malo Santo
Timothy Lyons , Chief Technology and Operating Officer of the BBOP Center
Dr. Dale Marsden , Founder and Chief Visionary of Tomorrow’s Talent

Together, The Kinetic AI Hub will execute a multidisciplinary approach designed to connect education, industry, and community needs.

A New Resource for the Inland Empire

As artificial intelligence reshapes nearly every sector of the economy, the Kinetic AI Hub positions our communities as a participant—rather than an observer—in the AI era. The Hub is designed as a regional resource, supporting collaboration across small businesses, nonprofits, educational institutions, and the creative economy.

Organizers say the goal is not simply to teach technology, but to empower the creative solutions needed to advance the economy.

Grand Opening Details

The Kinetic AI Hub Grand Opening will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026 , at 11:00 a.m. , at 599 N. Arrowhead Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92401. Additional information is available by phone at (909) 530-2267.

Opportunities + Requirements: California DGS SB and DVBE Certifications

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 19:24:08 GMT

For California entrepreneurs seeking an edge in the state procurement marketplace, certification through the California Department of General Services (DGS) remains one of the most effective ways to increase visibility, access contracting opportunities, and compete more fairly for government contracts. DGS’s Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services (OSDS) oversees certification for both Small Business (SB) and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) designations — and understanding how to apply or re-apply is essential for business growth.

What the SB and DVBE Certifications Do

The SB and DVBE certification programs are designed to promote and increase participation by small businesses — including veteran-owned firms — in state contracting. Certification can help businesses:

Appear in the official California certified vendor directory used by state agencies and prime contractors
Be considered for direct contracting opportunities through the SB/DVBE Option
Participate in solicitations with bid preferences or incentive programs
Expand access to state procurement markets worth billions annually

Certification also supports broader policy goals: California law calls for specific participation targets — such as a 3% DVBE participation requirement on many state contracts — and agencies seek to maximize involvement from certified firms.

Who Qualifies for SB and DVBE Certification

Small Business (SB):

To qualify as a certified small business in California, a firm must be independently owned and operated, meet state revenue size standards, and have its principal office in California. For most SB applications, average gross annual revenues over the previous three years must fall below the threshold defined for the business’s industry category.

Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE):

DVBE certification is specifically for businesses owned by disabled veterans. To qualify, the business must meet several requirements:

At least 51% owned by one or more disabled veterans
Disabled veteran(s) must be actively managing and controlling the day-to-day operations and decision-making
The veteran(s) must have a service-connected disability as verified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (typically at least 10% disability)
The firm’s home office must be located in the U.S. and properly registered to do business in California
For certain business structures such as LLCs, the entity may need to be wholly owned by qualifying disabled veterans

These requirements, set out in DGS’s certification criteria, ensure that only legitimate disabled veteran-owned businesses receive DVBE certification and access to corresponding opportunities.

How to Apply or Re-Apply

1. Register on Cal eProcure

All certification applications are submitted through Cal eProcure — California’s online procurement portal. Businesses must first create or update their profile on the system before beginning the certification process.

2. Complete the Certification Application

Once registered, log in to Cal eProcure and navigate to the Small Business/DVBE services section. Select the appropriate certification type — SB, DVBE, or both — and complete the questionnaire. Applicants need to provide documentation supporting ownership, structure, financials, veteran disability status, and control of the business.

3. Upload Required Documentation

Required attachments typically include tax returns, ownership agreements, veteran disability verification (e.g., VA award letter), government-issued IDs, and other supporting evidence. Ensuring files are complete and clearly labeled reduces processing delays.

4. Submit and Monitor Status

After submission, the Office of Small Business and DVBE Services reviews the application. Processing times vary but generally range from a few weeks to a couple of months depending on workload and completeness of the submission.

5. Renew on Time

Certification is typically valid for two years and must be renewed before expiration. Re-application requirements mirror the initial application process, and businesses should begin renewal well before their current certifications lapse.

Why Certification Still Matters

For many California vendors, SB and DVBE certifications unlock opportunities that would be difficult to access otherwise. Certified firms are more likely to be considered for:

State agency contracts and solicitations that prioritize or require certified vendors
SB/DVBE Option contracts, where state agencies can award directly to certified firms
Prime contractor subcontracting goals, particularly for DVBEs
Educational and outreach events that connect vendors with buyers and procurement professionals

Certification also supports compliance with state procurement goals — such as the minimum DVBE participation rate of 3% in many solicitations — meaning agencies and primes actively seek certified DVBEs as part of responsible bidding.

Getting Support and More Information

The DGS Office of Small Business and DVBE Services offers outreach, training, and assistance to help applicants successfully navigate the certification process. You can contact the office at (916) 375-4940 or via email at OSDSHelp@dgs.ca.gov for help with applications, renewals, or understanding program requirements.

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your SB/DVBE certification, completing the process through Cal eProcure positions your business to compete more effectively in California’s public procurement landscape. Certification opens doors — and in an increasingly competitive market, having that verified status can make a decisive difference.

Your Brand Isn’t Confusing — It’s Overcrowded

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 02:38:27 GMT

How simplifying your message can double clarity, engagement, and sales

Most brands don’t struggle because they lack greatness. They struggle because they’re crowded. Over time, businesses accumulate messages the way closets accumulate clothes. A tagline gets added. A new offer appears. A side project becomes part of the main pitch. Before long, what once felt clean and focused becomes layered, busy, and hard to process. When customers say, “I’m not quite sure what you do,” it can sting — but it’s also an invitation. Not to add more. To clear space.

Clarity rarely comes from expansion. Clarity almost always comes from subtraction.

When brands first start, the message usually feels sharp and direct. But growth brings opportunities — and with opportunities comes complexity. You begin serving more types of clients. You test different services. You create multiple programs. Each one feels important, so instead of choosing, you start stacking. Eventually you find yourself saying too much, too fast, to too many people. The irony is that the more you try to explain, the harder it becomes for anyone to understand.

If People Can’t Repeat It, They Can’t Remember It

A powerful brand can usually be repeated in one simple sentence. Not a paragraph. Not a presentation. A sentence:

“I help small businesses organize their finances.”
“We teach busy professionals how to get healthy.”
“We create spaces where leaders can grow.”

When someone hears that kind of clarity, they immediately know where you belong in their brain. But when your explanation sounds like, “Well, I do consulting, coaching, speaking, facilitation, retreats, courses,

workshops, and I also have a podcast,” people start mentally backing away. Not because you aren’t capable — but because the human brain needs anchors, not avalanches.

The more simply you describe what you do, the more room your audience has to imagine themselves working with you. Complexity feels impressive to us. Simplicity feels reassuring to them.

Too Many Offers Create Decision Fatigue

Another reason brands feel crowded is the desire to give people options. On paper, options seem generous. In reality, too many options paralyze people. When someone visits a website and sees multiple buttons, multiple packages, multiple directions, and multiple types of clients served, they begin to wonder whether any of it is actually meant for them. Instead of feeling invited, they feel uncertain — and uncertainty rarely buys.

Decision fatigue is real. When choosing feels like work, people delay. And when they delay, they often disappear. Fewer, clearer pathways create momentum. They move people through an experience instead of dropping them into a maze. Simplifying isn’t losing money. It’s guiding attention where it matters most.

Your Audience Doesn’t Need Everything — They Need the Right Thing

Many overcrowded brands are built from a good heart. You want to help. You have experience. You’ve learned so much, and you want to share all of it. But when you try to solve every problem, your brand stops standing for anything specific. People don’t hire “general capability.” They hire meaningful outcomes. They want to feel less overwhelmed, more confident, more organized, more profitable, more fulfilled — whatever transformation you specialize in.

When you boldly name that transformation, you give your brand a spine. Everything else becomes supporting material rather than the main message. You don’t have to stop offering multiple services. You simply have to choose which one becomes the doorway people enter through. Once they trust you, they’ll discover the rest.

Simplification Builds Trust

An overcrowded message can accidentally sound like you’re trying to prove yourself. The tone shifts from grounded to grasping. On the other hand, simplified branding communicates assurance. It tells people, “We know exactly who we are and where we create the greatest impact.” Clarity feels like leadership. Leadership creates safety. And safety is what allows people to invest.

This is why simplifying often results in more sales, not fewer. When people sense certainty, they relax. They stop questioning whether they’re making the right choice. Simplicity doesn’t dull your brilliance — it reveals it.

The Three-Question Reset

Whenever your message starts feeling heavy or scattered, returning to a few core questions can quietly recalibrate things. Ask yourself what you truly want to be known for if you could only choose one thing. Ask which offer consistently creates the best results, not merely the highest volume of activity. And finally, ask what single sentence you’d like someone to repeat about your work after they leave a conversation with you. Those answers usually tell the truth faster than any branding exercise.

Everything that doesn’t align with those answers may still have value — but it no longer leads the brand. It becomes supportive instead of central. This is where freedom appears. Simplifying is not erasing parts of yourself. It’s arranging the pieces so people can actually see you.

Simplifying Is Not Dumbing Down

There’s often a quiet fear that simplifying will make our work sound shallow. But the opposite is true. Simple messages make room for depth. They give you space to tell stories, share insights, and invite people deeper once they’re inside your world. Complicated branding exhausts people before they ever get close enough to appreciate what you do.

The most sophisticated brands in the world use remarkably simple language. Not because they lack depth — but because they know clarity is a form of respect.

The Bottom Line

Your brand likely isn’t confusing. It’s simply overcrowded. Over time, ideas piled up, directions multiplied, and suddenly the message became harder to hear. The good news is that clarity is always recoverable. It returns the moment you choose what matters most and let everything else take a respectful step back.

When you simplify, people find you faster. They understand you quicker. They trust you more deeply. And when trust rises, engagement and sales naturally follow. Growth, in many cases, isn’t about building more layers. It’s about finally saying: “This is who we are. This is what we do best. This is who it’s for.” And letting the confidence of that simplicity carry your work forward.

Riverside’s Super Foam Corp. Wins Innovation Grant to Accelerate Manufacturing Growth

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 04:41:54 GMT

(RIVERSIDE, CA) — Inland Empire-based Super Foam Corp. has received an Accelerate California Innovation Grant to help commercialize its patented foam technology, expand manufacturing partnerships, and position the company for additional public and private investment.

The Riverside company is led by CEO Zef Neemuchwala, Lead Research Chemist David Hernandez, and Lead Automation Engineer Jatomis Stevensen. Together, the founding team is developing lighter-weight, high-performance foam designed for use in aerospace, automotive manufacturing, personal protective equipment, and other industries requiring advanced impact protection.

“At Super Foam Corp., based in the Inland Empire region of California, we’re proud to carry forward the region’s strong legacy of innovation and manufacturing,” Neemuchwala said. “Our patented foam formulation delivers superior impact absorption at a lighter weight, produced through an automated, eco-friendly process.”

The company says its technology can help manufacturers improve product performance while supporting more sustainable and scalable production.

From Regional Incubators to Commercialization

Super Foam Corp.’s growth reflects the expanding network of innovation and entrepreneurship resources available throughout Southern California.

The company emerged from the Crucible Program , led by NavalX, and received early-stage support from UC Riverside’s EPIC Small Business Development Center and the ExCITE business incubator .

Super Foam Corp. later received technical assistance and business advising through the InSoCal Accelerate Hub, one of the regional partners supporting California’s Inclusive Innovation Hub initiative.

After completing its initial grant requirements, the company was selected for a Tier 2 Innovation Grant based on its patented technology, sustainability focus, commercialization potential, and readiness for growth.

The company has also earned first-place honors at both the Inland Empire Innovation Summit and the UC Riverside OASIS Challenge.

How the Funding Will Be Used

Super Foam Corp. plans to use the grant to:

Accelerate the commercialization of its patented foam technology
Develop customized components for manufacturing partners
Build an automated, just-in-time production and delivery system
Expand collaborations with early adopters
Strengthen future SBIR and STTR funding applications
Prepare for equity-based venture capital investment
Develop strategic relationships with corporate partners

The investment could help the company move from product development into larger-scale manufacturing and market adoption.

The Inland Empire has long been recognized as a logistics and manufacturing center. Companies like Super Foam Corp. demonstrate the region’s potential to become an even stronger hub for advanced manufacturing, materials science, clean technology, and research-driven entrepreneurship.

The company’s progress also illustrates how entrepreneurs can combine university incubators, business advising, innovation competitions, government grants, and industry partnerships to move an idea toward commercialization.

For early-stage founders, that support can be especially valuable when traditional financing is difficult to secure.

Opportunity for Southern California Innovators

Entrepreneurs developing new technologies, products, manufacturing processes, or business models can connect with the InSoCal Accelerate Hub for business advising, mentorship, networking, and access to capital resources.

The hub works with startups, researchers, entrepreneurs, and business leaders seeking to commercialize innovations and build scalable companies throughout Southern California.

Super Foam Corp.’s success shows that groundbreaking manufacturing companies can emerge and grow right here in the Inland Empire. With the right combination of technical expertise, regional support, and early-stage capital, local innovators can build companies capable of serving national and global markets.

7 Self-Care Strategies...Even on Busy Business Days

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 22:18:57 GMT

Amid the never-ending emails, back-to-back meetings, and tight deadlines, self-care can seem like an elusive luxury. But what if we reframe our perspective and consider self-care as a non-negotiable? By integrating holistic self-care practices, we can not only enhance our well-being but also elevate our performance. Dive deeper into these expanded self-care strategies for even the most hectic business days:

1. Elevate Your Morning Rituals

Morning routines set the rhythm for the day. Whether it's a guided meditation, journaling your intentions, or practicing yoga, dedicating time to center yourself can be transformative.

Expansion: Experiment with different morning routines to find what resonates. Perhaps a combination of visualization exercises, affirmations, and physical activity might be your ideal start.

2. Movement as Medicine

We often underestimate the power of movement. Regular short breaks to stretch, practice desk exercises, or engage in brisk walking can rejuvenate the mind and body.

Deep Dive: Explore various forms of movement— from Tai Chi to dance breaks. Regularly changing up your routine can keep it fresh and exciting.

3. Hydration with Intention

Beyond just drinking water, consider the quality and intention. Infuse your water with herbs, fruits, or opt for herbal teas to provide both hydration and nutrition.

Enrichment: Dive into the world of herbal teas. Chamomile can calm, green tea can invigorate, and peppermint can refresh. Match your hydration choice with your current need.

4. Elevate Your Eating Experience

Turn your mealtime into a ritual. Use it as an opportunity to be truly present, savor each bite, and relish the flavors.

Deep Dive: Learn about mindful eating practices. By understanding the origins of your food, its nutritional value, and savoring its flavors, you turn eating into an enriching experience.

5. Digital Retreats

While short breaks are beneficial, occasionally you may benefit from a more extended digital detox, allowing your mind to reset.

Expansion: Designate certain hours or even a full day where you disconnect from all devices. Fill this time with activities that nourish your soul - be it reading, painting, or nature walks.

6. Breathing and Beyond

Deep breathing can evolve into more comprehensive practices like pranayama or guided relaxation techniques.

Deep Dive: Explore different breathing techniques. For instance, the "4-7-8" technique or "alternate nostril breathing" can offer varied benefits, from relaxation to revitalization.

7. Holistic Boundaries

Beyond just setting time boundaries, consider emotional and mental boundaries. Protect your energy by being discerning about the information you consume and the interactions you engage in.

Expansion: Learn about energy management. Recognizing energy-draining tasks and balancing them with restorative activities can create a harmonious flow in your day.

Seeing self-care as an evolving practice can make it more adaptive and attuned to your needs. It's about more than just slotting in a few self-care moments; it's about weaving a holistic approach to well-being into the fabric of your daily life.

In the dynamic world of business, it's easy to feel like there's no time for self-care. However, by diving deeper into these strategies and personalizing them to your needs, you can ensure that even amidst chaos, you remain anchored in well-being and efficiency. Your well-being is your wealth; invest in it generously!

12 Businesses to Start for Entrepreneurial Success in 2023 and Beyond

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 15:47:41 GMT

Hey, entrepreneurs! It's Daymond John from Shark Tank. Over the years, I've witnessed countless business pitches, and I've been at the forefront of the ever-evolving entrepreneurial landscape. As we dive into 2023, I've compiled a list of 12 promising business avenues for those ready to hustle, swim with the sharks, and make a splash in the market. Let's dive in:

1. Green Tech Solutions

With growing global concerns about the environment, businesses that offer sustainable, green technology solutions are the future. Think renewable energy, eco-friendly gadgets, or even sustainable construction materials.

2. Telehealth Services

The pandemic underscored the importance and convenience of telehealth. Expanding on this concept with niche specialties or holistic approaches can be lucrative.

2. Health & Wellness E-commerce

The health and wellness industry has exploded in recent years. With a push towards healthier living, selling organic, non-GMO, or specialty wellness products online can tap into this lucrative market.

3. Virtual Reality Experiences

Virtual Reality (VR) isn't the future—it's now. From VR travel experiences to educational platforms, there's a vast potential waiting to be explored.

4. Subscription Boxes

Everyone loves a good subscription box. Whether it's gourmet foods, books, or even niche hobbies, curating and delivering tailored experiences right to someone's door is a trend that's here to stay.

5. Digital Fitness Platforms

People are looking for ways to stay fit from the comfort of their homes. Starting a digital fitness platform—be it for yoga, strength training, or even dance—can capture this audience.

6. Personal Brand Consultants

In the age of Instagram and TikTok, personal branding is king. Offer services to help individuals enhance their digital presence, be it through wardrobe, communication coaching, or digital strategies.

7. Customizable Direct-to-Consumer Goods

People value exclusivity. From customizable skincare regimens to 3D printed jewelry, offering personalized products can set you apart in the crowded consumer market.

8. Remote Work Solutions

The remote work trend isn't dwindling. Offering innovative solutions, be it ergonomic home office furniture, productivity software, or virtual team-building experiences can cater to this demographic.

9. Eldercare Services

With an aging global population, eldercare services—especially those integrating tech solutions for health monitoring or social engagement—have a growing market.

10. Plant-Based Foods & Restaurants

The plant-based movement is gaining steam. Starting a plant-based restaurant, or even a line of vegan and vegetarian products, could be a profitable venture.

11. DIY Craft Kits

The DIY trend, combined with e-commerce, can be a hit. Offer kits for making homemade candles, soaps, or even pottery. Help people unlock their creativity.

12. Financial Literacy Platforms

In a world of digital currencies and evolving economic landscapes, financial literacy is crucial. Offer courses, webinars, or consultations to equip people with the financial knowledge they need.

Remember, while these ideas are promising, your success depends on your passion, perseverance, and adaptability. Do your research, understand your audience, and be ready to pivot when necessary. As I always say, "Don't wait for the 'perfect' time, get started now and make the time perfect." Dive deep, take risks, and maybe I'll see you in the Shark Tank soon! All the best!

9 Considerations for Succeeding in the Nonprofit Sector

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 18:42:21 GMT

The nonprofit sector, an amalgamation of passion, purpose, and societal contributions, requires leaders who can bridge the gap between vision and actionable results. To not only survive but also flourish in this domain, organizations must incorporate both heart-driven missions and practical strategies. Here's a deeper exploration of nine pivotal considerations that are integral to nonprofit success:

1. Mission Clarity :

Importance : Every nonprofit is bound by its mission. This core ethos provides direction, engages stakeholders, and sets the stage for every future endeavor.
Action Step : Define a comprehensive mission statement and revisit it periodically to ensure alignment with ongoing initiatives and evolving societal needs.

2. Sustainable Funding:

Importance : Financial viability is the lifeblood of any nonprofit, enabling it to carry out its mission consistently.
Action Step : Diversify funding streams, explore partnerships, and remain open to innovative fundraising methods to ensure stability amidst economic fluctuations.

3. Engaging Stakeholders:

Importance : A nonprofit's strength lies in its community. Engaging with stakeholders fosters trust, invites collaboration, and solidifies the organization's role in the community.
Action Step : Implement a dynamic communication plan, employ regular feedback mechanisms, and prioritize relationship-building events.

4. Effective Governance and Leadership:

Importance : Strong leadership and governance structure anchor a nonprofit, instilling both direction and ethical accountability.
Action Step : Foster a diverse board, emphasize continuous leadership training, and facilitate transparent decision-making processes.

5. Outcome Measurement:

Importance : Demonstrating impact and assessing program effectiveness is crucial in the data-centric age.
Action Step : Leverage modern tools for data collection, and employ storytelling techniques to present outcomes compellingly.

6. Adaptability:

Importance : The dynamic nature of the nonprofit sector necessitates agility and a readiness to evolve.
Action Step : Encourage a culture of continuous learning, and stay attuned to emerging trends and technologies.

7. Collaboration:

Importance : Collaborative initiatives amplify reach, harness shared resources, and lead to creative problem-solving.
Action Step : Network proactively, explore strategic partnerships, and remain open to joint community projects.

8. Volunteer Management:

Importance : Volunteers are often the backbone of nonprofit organizations, providing invaluable manpower and community connections.
Action Step : Develop a structured volunteer onboarding process, offer training sessions, and create a system for recognition and appreciation to retain and motivate volunteers.

9. Continuous Learning and Development:

Importance : To remain effective and relevant, nonprofits must prioritize the growth and development of their staff and members.
Action Step : Invest in workshops, training sessions, and courses that empower your team with the latest skills and knowledge in the sector.

The nonprofit sector, with its unique challenges and rewards, demands a holistic approach that merges purpose-driven missions with strategic prudence. By assimilating these nine considerations into their operational framework, nonprofits can better position themselves to create lasting, positive ripples in the communities they serve.

Donation Platform Philanthropi is Using Tech to Advance Everyday Giving

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 13:38:58 GMT

Philanthropy is no longer reserved for wealthy donors writing six-figure checks.

Increasingly, it's being powered by everyday people making small contributions that add up to meaningful community impact.

According to Giving USA, Americans donated $484.9 billion to charitable causes in 2021, with 67% of all giving coming from individual donors rather than corporations or private foundations. Millennials, in particular, are reshaping what it means to be a philanthropist. Nearly three out of four millennials consider themselves philanthropists—even though many face significant financial challenges.

Helping drive that shift is Philanthropi , a technology platform designed to make charitable giving simple, accessible, and part of everyday life.

The company partners with financial institutions, employers, universities, and nonprofit organizations to help people support causes they care about with just a few clicks. In a recent pilot program with American Express, cardholders were able to round up everyday purchases and automatically donate the spare change to a nonprofit of their choice.

For founder Dr. Keith Leaphart , the future of philanthropy isn't about waiting until someone becomes wealthy—it's about making generosity a lifelong habit.

"The biggest shift that I've seen over the last 20 years or so is this concept that philanthropy used to be a destination," Leaphart told The Plug . "Millennials and Gen Z are like, 'No, this is a journey, and we're starting today.'"

As digital tools continue to remove barriers to giving, more people are discovering that philanthropy isn't defined by the size of a donation—it's defined by the decision to participate.

The Opportunity

For nonprofit organizations, this represents a significant opportunity. While major gifts remain important, technology is making it easier than ever to engage thousands of everyday donors through recurring giving, round-up programs, and digital fundraising campaigns. Organizations that embrace these tools can build broader community support while creating a more sustainable funding base.

Economic mobility isn't built by businesses alone. It also depends on strong nonprofit organizations supported by engaged communities. As platforms like Philanthropi make charitable giving more accessible, they're helping redefine philanthropy—not as something reserved for the wealthy, but as something everyone can participate in. That's good news for nonprofits, donors, and the communities they serve.

Corporate Sponsorships & Partnerships: Advice on Engaging Corporate Partners

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 05:13:06 GMT

Companies gave nearly $17 billion to charities during 2020 (Giving USA 2020), representing a critical revenue source and strategic partner for nonprofits. With 8 in 10 Americans expecting businesses to positively impact society (Cone/Porter Novelli, 2018), gone are the days of companies merely being satisfied with visibility and their name on an event T-shirt. Today, engaging corporate partners requires nonprofits to think differently about how they approach companies, identify opportunities, develop a corporate partnership strategy and measure impact.

To help nonprofits forge successful relationships with more companies, we asked two corporate social responsibility experts and funders for their advice. Here’s the guidance Michelle Hamilton, senior community investment manager at the Florida Blue Foundation, and Chris Johnson, senior social responsibility specialist at The Mosaic Company, shared to help you and your nonprofit successfully engage corporate partners.

What are the most common mistakes you see nonprofits make when it comes to corporate partnerships?

Michelle: Many organizations apply for funding without understanding our company’s mission or areas of focus. Or, they submit large funding requests before a funder has learned about their work or established a relationship. Don’t be afraid to ask a potential partner for an initial meeting. That preliminary outreach can help your nonprofit understand what opportunities to pursue, provide time-saving information and begin building a longer-term relationship.

Chris: We also get many funding requests from individuals and organizations we don’t know. Commit to cultivating relationships and communicating with company contacts — not just when you’re asking for money. Don’t forget that companies consist of your neighbors who care about the issues impacting your community. Find that common ground and establish a relationship before making significant fundraising asks.

What are you looking for in a nonprofit partner?

Chris and Michelle: There are five things we consistently look for in our nonprofit partners:

Alignment with our company’s purpose and priorities — We seek partners who strategically connect the dots between our shared work and objectives. Take the time to be intentional in identifying where both the company and your nonprofit align.
Collaboration — We prioritize nonprofits that work across the community with others and avoid duplicating efforts to ensure dollars stretch as far as possible.
Regular communication — We love when nonprofits keep us informed about what’s happening within their organizations. The best relationships are with those who check in, not just when they need something, but who treat us as a strategic partner invested in their work.
Proximity to where our employees live and work and the societal issues in those communities
Being data-driven — We expect nonprofits to use data and insights when presenting funding needs and proposing solutions to address them through a partnership.

What do you expect from nonprofits when it comes to impact and your return on investment?

Michelle: When it comes to measurement, we look at two sides of the coin. Event activation is beneficial for educational opportunities, lead generation and brand visibility, while programmatic funding allows us to improve lives through issues like food security, mental well-being and health equity. Impact goals and reporting vary from partner to partner because every objective and program is different. There must be a dedicated collaboration between the nonprofit and corporate partner to determine how to measure success and define what is realistic for the nonprofit to capture.

Chris: We seek both internal and external impact with our partners.

Internally, we care about building the capacity of our nonprofit partners, enhancing their sustainability and improving their ability to achieve their stated objectives. We don’t want our partners to create something to receive funding; we want to enhance what nonprofits are already doing well while identifying ways to improve or innovate it.

Externally, we want to solve community problems and address systemic and institutional issues that are impacting communities. This requires a robust approach. It’s much simpler for corporations and foundations to put their name on something or give money through an event sponsorship. On the flip side, it’s easier for nonprofits to host an event and raise money. It’s more challenging to address systemic and institutional issues because they entail data evaluation, cross-sector collaboration and a deeper investment of time and resources. We want to take a multi-faceted approach so we can fund emerging needs while also addressing the systemic issues that affect our communities.

Finally, the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are important at our company. There are five we focus on, and most of the nonprofit work we fund fits into or advances one of those areas. Understanding potential partners’ priorities is critical to achieving the greatest impact.

What practical advice would you give to nonprofit leaders who want to engage corporate partners more effectively?

Chris and Michelle:

Ensure you’ve done your homework on the company and understand what they do and if a partnership is a good fit.
Invest in yourself and your ability to cultivate and steward relationships. Professional development can help you build necessary or new skills to garner a meeting, create a winning proposal and deepen relationships.
Commit to building relationships outside of the fundraising process. Participate in your local chamber or other business groups. Genuinely get to know community leaders without an agenda.
Be transparent. As a funder, it’s essential to understand what’s working well along with the challenges. We have access to resources and expertise that can help you mitigate challenges when they arise. Don’t be afraid to share the bad with the good.
Engage your board of directors to assist you in opening doors, making introductions and asking for funding. It can take some of the pressure off your staff and create a shared leadership responsibility.
Follow current and potential funders or corporate partners on social media and engage in a dialogue with them. This allows you to stay apprised of both the big and small things happening within the company and open opportunities for your nonprofit to celebrate them.
Ask your corporate partners what you can do for them. Instead of only asking them for support, find out if there are ways you can support them in your daily activities such as sharing their good news or helping them connect to the community.

This article originally appeared in Nonprofit Leadership Center

Operation HOPE & Shopify to Create a Million Black-Owned Businesses by 2030

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Sat, 01 Oct 2022 22:36:54 GMT

Operation HOPE today announced HOPE One Million New Black Business & New Black Entrepreneurship Initiative (1MBB) and its goal to help create one million new Black-owned businesses in the U.S. by 2030. To realize this mission, Operation HOPE is working with leading global commerce company, Shopify, which intends to provide up to approximately $130 million of resources through 1MBB over the course of this initiative.

Historically, the Black community has faced systemic barriers to entry that have prevented their full participation in the entrepreneurial journey. Together with Shopify, Operation HOPE aims to reduce these obstacles, encouraging more aspiring Black entrepreneurs to start and scale businesses, and provide them with the tools, resources, and education they may need to succeed.

Operation HOPE research has shown that 58% of Black businesses were deemed at risk or distressed and suffering from low profits, low credit scores, or income shocks in the months immediately following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (April 2020). Over the course of the pandemic, the number of Black workers and business owners fell sharply, over 40%, a more severe economic impact compared to other racial groups. The pandemic’s disproportionate effects on Black businesses result in both acute and long-term impacts on Black families and future generations. At present, four in 10 Black adults belong to families in which someone lost a job, was furloughed, or had hours cut, or lost work-related income because of the COVID-19.

To level the playing field, 1MBB intends to focus on critical tools for business success such as technology and resources, educational programs, and the opportunity to access capital. Through this program, Black business owners have the opportunity to sign up for Operation HOPE’s award-winning model of community uplift, financial literacy and education, and upon graduation, Shopify plans to provide aspiring Black entrepreneurs a tailored education with tools and resources to launch or expand their businesses.

“Creating generational wealth through the creation of new Black businesses and Black entrepreneurs is a direct gateway to social justice. The creation of ownership, jobs and opportunity in a generation helps to strengthen democracy and ensure freedom through self-determination. This is empowerment at scale,” said John Hope Bryant, CEO and Founder of Operation HOPE. “To have Shopify actively supporting the 1MBB Initiative is a true game changer. Working together, we can scale our business creation platform to help underserved communities and enhance economic prosperity across America.”

“At Shopify, we believe more independent voices make commerce better for everyone. That’s why we work to break down the barriers to entrepreneurship every day,” said Harley Finkelstein, Shopify President. “By collaborating with Operation HOPE and working together on our shared passion for helping underserved communities succeed, we believe we can help unlock even more economic opportunities for Black business owners across the country, leading to greater choices for shoppers everywhere.”

To learn more about this initiative, visit www.HOPE1MBB.org . Organizations looking to work with Operation HOPE and Shopify to advance our mission to help more Black businesses build the future of commerce are encouraged to fill out a form through www.HOPE1MBB.org .

Introduction to Supply Chain Management, Operations & Logistics

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 15:09:10 GMT

Urban Excellence is pleased to announce it's newest business and career development course, Introduction to Supply Chain Management, Operations & Logistics. Prompted by California Governor Newsom's Executive Order (Caltrans, etc.) the purpose of the program is to provide exposure to this highly lucrative and important industry for histoorically under-represented communities. Participants will learn:

Essential principles area ofSupply Chain Business Operations
A Supply Chain Management for Manufacturing or Service businesses
Aims and Objectives of a good Supply Chain
Best practices for Matching your Product to your Supply Chain's Design Type
Segmenting Stakeholders and Tailoring Business Relationships
Forecasting Demand: Quantitative Methods and why we need more Collaborative Forecasting
Demand Management: Internal and External Methods
The "Bullwhip Effect": What it is and how to Control it
Improve a Supply Chain by reducing Delays, Uncertainties and Decision Tiers
Sales & Operations Planning Structure > MRP, ERP and Software integration
Inventory Management: The needs and costs of inventory
Performance Metrics - learn the essential Supply Chain KPIs to keep your "finger on the pulse"
Increase Profitability, Improve Delivery and Use your Resources more Efficiently
Boost your Career: Increase your Confidence to see and Lead Change , Impress your own Boss and Become a Better Manager

For more information call 310-773-6140.

Cousins Launch Entrepreneurship Bootcamps to Start 10,000 Businesses

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 21:45:33 GMT

Meet Dovév Weaver and his cousin, Elliot Martin, the co-founders of Closer To Our Dreams LLC , a business development and marketing consulting company based in St. Petersburg, Florida, that is on a mission to help 10,000 aspiring Black entrepreneurs successfully launch a business this year. Their company will be mentoring and coaching success-oriented individuals for 12 weeks through their Dreams to Reality Academy, and also taking their entrepreneurship bootcamps to ten states across the country.

Dovév, popularly known as Coach D, has reiterated his commitment to inspiring the masses to start going after their goals and dreams daily. He and his team at Closer To Our Dreams LLC (C.T.O.D.) have grown in popularity in recent times, helping people from all walks of life to reach their full potentials by personifying the experience. In fact, they have mastered the art of helping different categories of clients - including organizations, schools, students, and adults to go after their dreams with passion.

Even more, everyone who he mentors is given access to the same law firm, accounting firm, and government contracting company of C.T.O.D., as well as tickets to upcoming events.

His cousin, Elliot, who is co-founder of the company, says, “When we launched our business, our goal was always to be a Global company. Our focus is on helping as many people as we can live life on their terms.”

Coach D says, “Our goal at Closer To Our Dreams is to close the wealth gap between minorities and give people access to information that has been hidden from the masses for decades. We won’t stop until everyone knows about entrepreneurship. We want our company to be the number one resource when someone wants to start a business.”

"Millions of people across the globe often fail to live their dreams, a phenomenon that experts have attributed to limiting beliefs. Over the years, several initiatives and resources have been developed to help persons in such a situation. Unfortunately, many of such resources have abstract content that people can hardly relate with, ultimately failing to deliver the desired results. This is why our company was launched," he adds.

For more information about the 1-on-1 coaching and other programs from Closer To Our Dreams LLC, visit CloserToOurDreams.com

5 Things Successful People Do Before They Start Their Day

kimanthonyonline@gmail.com (Kim Anthony) — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 04:09:44 GMT

It was once said by author, Robert Collier that “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day-in and day-out.” While success is inherited for some and earned via hard work for others, there are some characteristics that successful people do share. For many, having a good morning routine is key to maintaining their achievements. Here, we’ll discuss five things that successful people do to start their days.

1. Successful People Do Eat Healthy Breakfasts

Studies show eating a healthy breakfast each morning can help improve your concentration and performance, and help give you more physical strength and endurance, according to WebMD. Taking time for a meal in the morning may help you focus on your tasks, and ultimately, accomplish more during the day.

2. Successful People Do Exercise

Getting in a morning workout helps prepare you to take on the day. In addition to the numerous health benefits of regular exercise, doing cardio, yoga or some other exercise in the morning can help energize you and wake up your body.

3. Successful People Do Plan the Day

Each morning, take time to map out your day. Prioritize your goals and to dos and create a timetable of your activities. You may be better able to adjust to situations that arise over the course of a day and be better prepared to accomplish all your tasks by spending a few minutes scheduling the day in front of you.

4. Successful People Do Check the News

Whether it is while you ride the bike in the morning at the gym or sitting at the table eating breakfast, scan the day’s headlines. What’s going on in the world around you may affect your business. Staying up to date on current events can help you prepare for the events you’re expecting or immediately begin developing solutions for those you aren’t.

5. Successful People Do Meditate

It can be difficult to disconnect from all your demands, and your thoughts may become cluttered. The Huffington Post points out that meditation reduces stress and improves concentration, among other benefits. Spending even a short amount of time meditating or visualizing the day in the morning can help you clear your mind and prepare you to take on the rush of the day.

This article original appeared in Beacon Resources