San Mateo County will support business launches and growth after the Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday to invest nearly $1.5 million to help entrepreneurs launch and grow businesses.
The funds, they said, will also help job seekers gain the skills they need to compete for in-demand careers.
Programs including how to access capital will be launched through the North Fair Oaks Center for Economic Advancement.
“This will be an important step in moving families and individuals closer to financial independence, giving them the right tools and training to move forward,” said Supervisor Warren Slocum, who represents the 4th District which includes North Fair Oaks, parts of Menlo Park, including Belle Haven, East Palo Alto, and Redwood City.
“We know there is a lot of talent and treasure within our vulnerable communities, and with the right services, they too can become small business entrepreneurs here or find employment at some of our local businesses. It is also about equity and giving opportunities to others," he added.
The investment builds on work underway over several years to develop the entrepreneurial spirit of residents in the North Fair Oaks area and to help job seekers gain valuable skills.
It should be noted that two service provider organizations were selected and grants were approved to begin work on the North Fair Oaks Center for Economic Advancement.
Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center was selected to provide services to small businesses and local entrepreneurs. Their work will be funded by a $500,000 grant from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative and funds from the federal American Rescue Act.
For its part, JobTrain will provide employment services, including job training to individuals, households and small businesses in North Fair Oaks.
Classes, tutorials, and materials will be available in English and Spanish with a focus on programs for women; industry-specific skills development and workshops ?finance, marketing, operations?; technology training; website development; and legal workshops on small business issues ?leasing, intellectual property, contracts?.
In turn, the program will provide specific assistance for entrepreneurs seeking grants for Latino-owned businesses and information on accessing California micro-business COVID-19 relief grants.
Until a site for the North Fair Oaks Economic Advancement Center is located and leased, the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center and JobTrain will begin their work at Casa Circulo Cultural in North Fair Oaks.
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