6 Central Coast Organizations that will Help Your Small Business Succeed
In our last 10 years in business, we have seen the power of community at work. We could not have reached where we are today without the help, support, and love of our friends and family around us. Specifically, we could not have done it without the support of local organizations that have dedicated their efforts to helping small businesses succeed. We would like to feature just a few of these organizations today and thank them for the huge part they have played in the success of JR Bookkeeping.
1. Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV)
Mission: WEV cultivates the power within each woman to realize her dreams, achieve financial independence and succeed on her own terms.
They accomplish this mission through Business Training, Loan Programs, and Advisory Services. They offer their services in English and Spanish as well.
In the early days of JR Bookkeeping, WEV helped us write a business plan through their Self-Employment Training Program. They helped us set our foundation through the early growing pains of starting a business.
Our founder and CEO, Juliana, has gone from being a student and client at WEV to being a teacher. We now help other small businesses that are getting started.
2. SCORE
Mission: SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, fosters vibrant small business communities through mentoring and education. It is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals.
SCORE has hundreds of local chapters throughout the United States. Their wide range of services for businesses includes
Mentoring
Webinars and Courses
Online Resources
Local Events.
A mentor from SCORE helped us set up our first website and get started with our marketing. We now have the privilege of helping other small businesses with their finances through SCORE’s mentorship program and by teaching and hosting monthly webinars with our local SCORE chapters here in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties
3. Economic Development Collaborative (EDC)
Mission: The EDC creates confident, connected, and directed business owners, civic leaders, and community partners by providing tools to build pathways for economic development.
With over 50 professional advisors and a full-time loan manager, the EDC promotes local jobs and economic growth by providing loans and financial guidance to small businesses in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles counties.
It was an EDC mentor who several years ago encouraged Juliana to take drastic steps in the finances of JR Bookkeeping that have been significant for its growth over the years.
4. Workforce Development Board of Ventura County
Mission: The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County help businesses gain a competitive edge by attracting and retaining untapped talent to drive diversity, inclusion, and performance, all at no cost.
Their services for businesses include:
Sourcing and recruitment
Job fairs
On-the-job training subsidies
Subsidized internships
Information about Work Opportunity Tax Credits
Human Resources Hotline
Through their on-the-job training subsidies, we were able to create employment opportunities while increasing our capacity to serve clients.
5. Goodwill Industries
Mission: Goodwill helps people overcome challenges to build skills, find jobs, and grow their careers.
While you may think of Goodwill as just a retail place to buy second-hand goods, its mission and goal is to help people pursue careers and better their lives. They do this by both providing work at their retail stores and by partnering with local businesses to encourage local on-the-job training.
Goodwill Industries has played a part in giving us the opportunity to serve more clients and train employees while keeping our employee costs minimal.
6. Local Chambers of Commerce
“A chamber of commerce is an organization of business owners and entrepreneurs who promote the interests of their local business community. Chambers of commerce provide access to valuable resources, discounts, and relationships that help businesses save money and market their products.” (source)
We have benefited greatly and have been able to give back to our community through the local chambers of commerce in our area. We have been a part several chambers, including:
What About You?
Wherever you are, whether here on the California Central Coast or elsewhere, lean into your community. Make connections and reach out for guidance and support. You won’t regret it.
In the meantime, check out our events page to see upcoming webinars and local events that will help you in your business journey!