Category: Business

Oct. 16 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to present NO-COST EVENT: The Price is Right (AI Edition) #LATechWeek

THE PRICE IS RIGHT (AI EDITION) #LATECHWEEK

Come for an exciting and fun-filled game night (with a chance to win significant prizes!) as HelloAdvisr takes a modern twist on a television classic, The Price is Right! Work with your team or other attendees through AI and tech-themed price-guessing challenges. Learn more about the intricacies of AI product pricing and takeaway tips you can bring to your business (or use to win!) in between game rounds.

What You Will Learn:
Intricacies of product pricing
Leveraging pricing for your GTM motion
Practical tips and tools you can use for your venture

This interactive evening is designed to equip you with the theory and know-how to maximize the power of pricing for your current needs and inspire you to explore the power of your pricing if you haven’t yet!

Oct. 18 — Aviation Career Day for Ventura County High School and Middle School Students

VENTURA COUNTY — For the first time since the pandemic, we are excited to announce the much-awaited return of Aviation Career Day for Ventura County High School and Middle School Students on Friday, Oct. 18, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Camarillo Airport.

This event aims to introduce students to the world of aviation and aerospace and provide them with a glimpse of the exciting STEM-related careers available in this field.

Oct. 19 — CLU School of Management to preset Management Masterclasses: Refresh, Revitalize, Reconnect

Homecoming is the perfect time to reconnect with old friends and reignite your professional spark. The School of Management is proud to invite you to “Management Masterclasses: Refresh, Revitalize, Reconnect”. Split into three short sessions, join one or join them all to sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve in AI, Marketing, and Talent Management.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 19th to expect a morning packed with engaging Management Masterclasses led by industry professionals.

This interactive format offers the chance to learn from the best, ask questions, and network with professors and fellow alumni. Don’t miss this Homecoming activity – register at the link above today and take your career to the next level!

Oct. 22 — Ventura County Community Development Corp. — Access a low-interest personal loan, classes, financial coaching and more

Are you ready to take charge of your financial future? With VCCDC’s Advancing Communities Program, you can access a low-interest personal loan of up to $2,500 and gain essential financial management skills! We believe that everyone deserves the chance to thrive, and that’s why our newest program aims to provide a pathway to empowerment. Our program, made possible with funding from the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, includes free personalized coaching and workshops designed to elevate your financial knowledge and confidence. Join a community of like-minded individuals, learn from experts, and unlock the tools you need to create a brighter financial future. It’s time to invest in yourself!

Oct. 22 — Ventura County Civic Alliance announces ‘Future of the Region Conference’ in Camarillo

Building on the research in the Civic Alliance’s 2023 State of the Region Report, this Future of the Region conference explores the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence and how it will shape our region.

Oct. 22 — Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) — Access a low-interest personal loan, classes, financial coaching and more

Are you ready to take charge of your financial future? With VCCDC’s Advancing Communities Program, you can access a low-interest personal loan of up to $2,500 and gain essential financial management skills! Plus if you make your payments on time and you complete the required classes and financial coaching, interest paid, will be refunded at the end of the loan term!

Oct. 22 — Bilingual report — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC) — People’s Place Grand Opening!

RSVP by October 15
Located at 714-716 West Harvard Boulevard, People’s Place is a new construction development made up of 69 one-, two- and three-bedroom units, serving households earning 30-60% of the area median income (AMI). The property also has 21 units set aside for farmworker households making 30-45% of the AMI.
On-site amenities include a community center, learning center, outdoor courtyards, shared gardens, designated bike storage, onsite parking, and playgrounds. All residents also have access to free onsite supportive services.

Oct. 23 — Spooky Fun Awaits at The Collection: Join Us for a Family-Friendly Halloween Extravaganza!

OXNARD — Prepare for a bewitching experience at The Collection at RiverPark’s annual Trick-or-Treat event! On Wednesday, Oct. 23 from 5-7 p.m., children of all ages are invited to join in the Halloween festivities, sponsored once again by Dignity Health Medical Group — Ventura County and Dignity Health Medical Network.

This year, The Collection will be more magical than ever as our merchants and storefronts transform into a haunted wonderland. With dazzling decorations and ghoulishly delightful costumes, our shopping center will offer a thrilling experience as trick-or-treaters make their way from store to store, collecting candy and enjoying the Halloween spirit. Bring your little monsters, witches, and superheroes to enjoy a night of trick-or-treating fun and spooky surprises!

Oct. 25, 26 — Bilingual report — Join Us for the Central Coast Small Farmer, Rancher, and Fisherfolk Forum in Santa Maria

SANTA MARIA — The Central Coast Small Farmer, Rancher, and Fisherfolk Forum is set to take place on October 25th and 26th at Allan Hancock College. This dynamic gathering aims to empower local producers and foster community and economic resilience through innovative practices and collaborative networking.

October 25th is the kickoff ticketed evening reception from 6pm to 9pm. This curated farm to table meal will feature several of our region’s farmers, ranchers, and fisherfolk.

Nov. 12 — Bilingual report — SCORE To Present Next In-Person Workshop in Oxnard in Spanish

VENTURA COUNTY — in partnership with the City of Oxnard and the Economic Development Collaborative Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub, the Ventura County Chapter of SCORE will present its second in-person no cost workshop On November 12. To ensure broader accessibility and support for the Spanish-speaking small business community in the Oxnard area, the SCORE workshop will be presented in Spanish.

Nov. 14 — Bilingual report — City of Ventura to host workshops for collaborative rental housing solutions

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is taking proactive steps to solicit feedback from the community on tenant protections and housing. As part of the implementation of the 2021-2029 Housing Element, staff is exploring the potential for programs that support tenants and property owners. This approach ensures that both tenants and property owners can thrive in a balanced, well-protected environment. The City’s Housing Services Division is hosting a series of workshops to garner various perspectives on tenant protections and housing rights in the City of Ventura.  

Nov. 16 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present free Holiday Market Showcasing Lynda Weinman and other Women Artisans of Santa Barbara

Kick off your holiday shopping with a curated shopping event featuring one-of-a-kind items with an emphasis on art, design and style by local creative women who have taken their art to the next level. Featured are 3D printed designs by Lynda Weinman, leather handbags from Barbara Flanagan, puzzles and notecards by the collage artist Athena Philippides, and edible delights from Marley Confections. 

Nov. 21 — CLU School of Management to present ‘Sustainable Fashion Showcase.’ Sustainable Development Goals Competition 2024 on Dec. 3

Doors open at 5PM. Food sponsored by Mendocino Farms.

5:00 PM – Enjoy food, networking, and sustinable fashion tabling. Feel free to shop!

5:30 PM – Keynote with Chipper Bro Bell, entrepreneur, B-Corp advocate, and Patagonia veteran of 25 years, shares insights on how companies can authentically live their brand by defining mission, values, and purpose to make a real impact on the planet.

6:00 PM – Runway style with sustainable fashion looks. Enjoy the latest eco-friendly looks on the runway, plus continued shopping and brand exhibits.

Enjoy an evening of runway fashion with eco-friendly designs and innovative styles that highlight the future of sustainable fashion. A must-see event for fashion enthusiasts and industry disruptors.

Dec. 3 — Tango ‘Holiday Party’ at The Greek Mediterranean Restaurant, Ventura Harbor Village

Along with our hosts “The Greek,” we will be celebrating the season with a special
Tango “Holiday Party” on the first Tuesday in December, 12/03 …

6:00 – 9:00 pm = same time, same place as our usual Tuesday Nights — plus:

Dec. 4 — Renowned Economist to Present at WVCBA’s Business & Economic Outlook in Camarillo

CAMARILLO — The West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA), the chamber of commerce advocating for businesses in Camarillo and Oxnard, is proud to present renowned economist and public speaker Dr. Christopher Thornberg, Founder of Beacon Economics, at the Business & Economic Outlook on Wednesday, December 4.

Dec. 4 — Ventura County Taxpayers Association next Breakfast Club meeting — Spotlight on Fillmore

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Taxpayers Association next Breakfast Club meeting — “Spotlight on Fillmore” will be held at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4 at Marie Callender’s, 185 E. Daily Drive, Camarillo.

Dec. 5 — LEAP to hold ribbon cutting ceremony for Lompoc’s Children’s Center

LOMPOC — LEAP: Learn. Engage. Advocate. Partner. will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony for Lompoc Children’s Center at 11:30 .m. Thursday, Dec. 5 at 500 E. North Ave, Lompoc.

Program

11:30am: Speeches and Ribbon Cutting. Speakers include LEAP’s Executive Director Lori Goodman, Trinity Church of the Nazarene’s Lead Pastor Travis Caldeira, and elected officials.

12:00pm: BBQ Lunch and Children’s Center Tours

Dec. 6 — Museum of Ventura County announces upcoming Sip ‘n Shop and Small Business Saturday events

Sip ‘ n Shop

Everyone welcome to attend

Friday, December 6

5 – 7 pm

@Museum of Ventura County

Join us at the Museum to sip champagne and browse a curated collection of unique gifts. You’ll also have the chance to gift a Museum membership for 2025, sharing the experience all year long! MVC members receive a 10% discount.

Dec. 7 — Have Breakfast with Santa And Shop For Christmas Trees At Simi Valley Family YMCA

SIMI VALLEY — The Simi Valley Family YMCA will host its annual Breakfast With Santa on Saturday, December 7, featuring a fresh-cooked breakfast, hot cocoa, photos with Santa, a snow play area and holiday crafts. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Families can then select a newly-arrived Christmas tree at the YMCA’s Christmas tree lot operated by the Simi Valley Y’s Men’s Club.

The breakfast costs $20 for YMCA members and $25 for nonmembers, with children 3 and under admitted free. Advance registration is required at www.sevymca.org/breakfast-santa.

Dec. 7 — European-Style Holiday Marketplace Returns to Thousand Oaks for Third Year

Sixty vendors will offer unique gifts ranging from handcrafted candy and crepe paper flowers to organic seasonings, glass art, ornaments and curated gift baskets.

“Holidays in the Village is where to find that perfect gift for a special family member or friend,” said Matt Midura, event co-chair.

Dec. 7 — Bilingual report — SBCC Extended Learning presenting 2024 Arts & Crafts Fair

SANTA BARBARA —  Just in time for the holiday gift-giving season, more than 50 arts and crafts faculty and students from the SBCC School of Extended Learning will be selling their wares at Wake Campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7.

Dec. 10 — Bilingual Report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors Meeting — Senior Mobile Home Park Conversion Interim Urgency Ordinance Extension, more

The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, December 10, 2024
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor
105 E. Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room
in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.

Dec. 13, 14 — Holidays Sparkle with a Candy Land Twist at the 48th Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks

VENTURA — Ventura Harbor is delighted to announce the 48th Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks, a holiday tradition filled with color and dazzling displays, on Friday, December 13th and Saturday, December 14th at 6:30 pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks display at 8:00 pm. This year’s theme, “Candy Land,” will transform the waterfront into a sugary spectacle, with vibrant boats and holiday cheer lighting up the night sky. Join us for this sweets-inspired event featuring live entertainment, delectable treats, and a spectacular fireworks finale (weather permitting). Boater applications are now open, and it is free to participate in the boat parade, which includes prizes and awards for boaters – captains can sign up on venturaharborvillage.com/pol-boaters/

Dec. 14 — Ventura County Community Development Corp. (VCCDC) announces last Homebuyer Workshop for 2024

In this interactive session, you’ll gain valuable insights on key topics, including:

Understanding the do’s and don’ts of homebuying
Exploring financing options and mortgage types
Learning about down payment assistance programs
Managing your finances effectively
Building or improving your credit
Tips for navigating the real estate market

Dec. 15 — Museum of Ventura County Announces Intertribal Storytelling Winter Solstice

From 1:00-2:30, experience captivating storytelling from Chumash Elder Dennis Garcia, Kat High of the Hupa tribe, and Alan Salazar, a Fernandeño Tataviam and Ventureño Chumash Elder. Bring the little ones to our Kids’ Corner, where they can stay busy with playful puppets and coloring while you enjoy the storytelling!

Dec. 21 — Tis’ The Season To Make Merry at Ventura Harbor Village

VENTURA — Re-kindle the magic and add a little glee to the holiday season for the annual family fun Santa Paddle at 11 AM and Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace at Ventura Harbor Village from Noon – 4 PM  on Saturday, Dec. 21.  This popular seaside playground hosts Santa both on the water and with his live reindeer throughout the course of the day.  

First up,  join Santa as he trades in his sleigh for a light workout on the paddle board as part of Ventura Harbor’s annual Santa Paddle 2024 from 11 AM – Noon.  Visitors can join in on the water to ring in good holiday vibes with a scenic one-hour paddle procession from Ventura Harbor Village bay in front of Ventura Boat Rentals through the marina to the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center and back. 

Through Dec. 24 — This Holiday Season There’s Something for Everyone at The Collection in Oxnard

OXNARD — The first crisp days of fall bring the air of anticipation about the upcoming holiday season, and The Collection at RiverPark has plenty of festive activities to look forward to. From The Annual Tree Lighting Celebration and Photos with Santa to the Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt, Merry Vibes Market, and of course Black Friday shopping there’s plenty of fun for everyone.

Museum of Ventura County — Happy New Year – check out what we are up to in 2024!

Autism Society Ventura County Presents: Celebrating the Autistic Mind Art Show

Opening Reception January 11
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura

Museum of Ventura County welcomes Autism Society Ventura County’s “Celebrating the Autistic Mind Art Show” January 11 – 14 from 11 am – 5 pm daily with a special opening reception on January 11 from 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm. Explore the imaginative works of 43 neurodiverse artists of all ages. Reserve your spot HERE and immerse yourself in creativity!

Bilingual report — Volunteer Opportunity with Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is looking for new volunteers and docents for the 2024 year! We are hosting a six weeks docent training starting on January 13th. Contact SBMM’s Guest Services manager at volunteer@sbmm.org for more information.

Year in Review from People’s Self-Help Housing!

Dear Friend,
This year was marked with so much success because of strong partnerships, faithful support and visionary investments from people like you. Thank you for every part you played through your advocacy, goodwill and generous support. You made stories like this possible.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) 411 Labor Market Report

Labor Market Report for November 2023

The California Labor Market Information Division has released its November 2023 report, showing a slight step back by most of the major indicators, with a net gain of only 1,600 Nonfarm jobs and an uptick in the unemployment rate, from 4.5% in October to 4.7% in November.

Looking on the positive side, Ventura County continues to attract workers back into the labor force, now at 419,700, though still down 3,200 workers since prior to COVID. What’s helping draw workers back in is that we’ve gained 7,000 payroll jobs over the same period, since November 2019. Work opportunities are increasingly abundant, though apparently not attractive enough in wages, benefits and working conditions to attract the still several thousand retirees and others who exited during COVID.

People’s Self-Help Housing Receives Accolade for Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design

CENTRAL COAST — This month, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) have unveiled their new Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) Silver award at their corporate headquarters in San Luis Obispo.  

Achieved in collaboration with In Balance Green Consulting and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), this certification recognizes properties built with exceptional sustainable construction practices. The goal of LEED is to create ‘better buildings that promote sustainability, enhance individual human health, and protect and restore water resources’.  

Space Enthusiasts Uncover Best Places To View A Rocket Launch In Lompoc

LOMPOC — Lompoc is just minutes from some of the most spectacular rocket launches on California’s Central Coast! As the primary spaceport on the West Coast, Vandenberg Space Force Base is just minutes from Lompoc, making our valley and the surrounding area the best place to view rocket launches. The launches take place from several Space Launch Complex launch sites (SLC’s).

As Vandenberg is an active space force base, only members of the military can view the launch on the base. However, we have put together a list of several great sites where you’ll be able to view the launch action.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

Santa Paula is on the front lines of a fight against a deadly disease targeting citrus trees. The Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner is calling on the community to help stop the spread of Huanglongbing (HLB) a disease vectored by the Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP).

Residents in quarantine zones are asked to not move any plant material – this includes fruit, leaves, branches, and even dirt. The Ventura County Agricultural Comissioner/Weights & Measures Department is working with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) to mitigate the situation.

The disease is not harmful to humans but it is detrimental to citrus trees. Right now the goal is to slow the spread to give science and research time to develop possible treatments.

Call the CDFA pest hotline at 1-(800)-491-1899 if your trees are showing symptoms of ACP/ HLB and they can arrange to have your tree tested.

Want to learn more? Take a moment to watch the video on how HLB affects local citrus.

Happy New Year! Up Next at Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara

We kindly ask for your support as we enter into 2024. Please consider making a much needed gift in support of art, artists, and our community before December 31, 2023. We are grateful for your donation by credit card, check, or gift of appreciated securities, it will all be put to good use ensuring the success of our forthcoming exhibitions and public programs. Thank you!

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) wishes you Happy Holidays!

Looking for NO-COST Business Consulting Services?

The EDC SBDC call team and experienced advisors are available to answer questions and help you navigate today’s complex business environment. The Economic Development Collaborative hosts the Small Business Development Center and is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. Signing up as a client takes just a few minutes and provides you with lifetime access to all of our no-cost services.