West Contra Costa Business Development Center (BDC)

Description

The BDC offers comprehensive training programs and workshops that are designed to coach businesses in improving their day-to-day operations. Topics cover functional and support elements of business ownership, including: general management, marketing, operations as related to employees, financial management and business planning. The BDC business advisors work one-on-one with small business owners to address any current or potential issues and to help clients identify business opportunities. Clients meet with the business specialist that addresses specific areas of need including developing a business or marketing plan, setting up a financial management system, or packaging a loan application. The BDC works with local lending programs and financial institutions to assist small business owners who are interested in applying for a loan. Our services are offered in coordination with lending programs to ensure that applicants are familiar with the loan requirements and can put together an effective loan package. Within the last three years: More than 500 aspiring and established small business owners have been served. Over 270 small business owners have participated in our training programs. 26 new businesses have been launched. Over 100 new jobs have been generated. More than $500,000 has been secured in micro-loans. Average loan size = $25k. 30 new websites have been developed & launched.