SCORE: FUND YOUR BUSINESS WITH SPONSORS, EVEN IF YOU’RE JUST STARTING OUT
May 7 @ 10:00 am
Would you like to do what you love and have someone else foot the bill? Have you ever thought about corporate sponsors for your business, show, book, charity, speaking or events? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this webinar is for you! America’s most successful companies partner with sponsors. Why not you?
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Students who are accepted into the program as?College?Corps?“fellows” will?work with K-12 schools, food banks or climate action organizations to build healthier and more equitable communities across California. In exchange, they can receive up to $10,000, including a living stipend throughout the service term and an Education Award upon completion of 450 service hours. The program also provides students with valuable job experience and skills, as well as access to training, networking, and professional development opportunities.
SANTA MARIA — In Celebration of May Day, on April 28, 2024, over a hundred farmworkers – along with CAUSE and MICOP – organized a rally and march to launch a new farmworker living wage campaign for Santa Barbara County.
“Nearly two hundred farmworkers are here today because of the ongoing and increasing difficulty to afford housing, childcare, healthcare, and food despite their essential work for the Central Coast, state, and nation,” said Hazel Davalos, Co-Executive Director of CAUSE. “In the face of doing physically strenuous labor to support an essential part of our local economy, those who toil in the fields are paid low wages, denying farmworker families the ability to live in dignity. The community of Santa Maria showed up today to celebrate May Day and stand in solidarity with farmworkers. Our state and society has deemed farmworkers as essential, and it’s past time that these very workers deserve to be treated as essential and paid wages that honor the sacrifice, health risks, and the hours farmworkers endure.”
The California Labor Market Information Division released its March 2024 report, displaying a strong improvement in the Ventura County unemployment rate, from an adjusted 5.1% in February down to 4.6% in March. Job creation was more moderate in improvement, with a net increase by 2,900 payroll jobs, driven primarily by an increase in Farm jobs, up 1,800 in March.
Looking year-over-year, Ventura County added 7,200 jobs across all industries, 5,000 in the private sector, 1,200 in the public sector.
SANTA BARBARA — Six young musicians took home thousands of dollars in scholarships Sunday, April 28, after competing in the annual music contest organized by the Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation.
A professional panel of judges selected first and second place winners in the adult instrumentalist, junior instrumentalist and vocalist categories. Eleven finalists performed at the event. Awards ranged from $500 to $6,000 and totaled $26,000 overall. The contest took place at Music Academy of the West in Montecito.
This year’s vocal division winner is Ava Kimmel, 22, a soprano and junior at Westmont College. Second prize goes to Xeni Tziouvaras, 29, a mezzo-soprano and freelance vocalist embarking on an international opera career following graduation from the Manhattan School of Music.
Every day, Friendship Center has the privilege of welcoming individuals who hold a multitude of roles in your lives – mothers, fathers, spouses, grandparents, former teachers or coaches, and dear friends– into our charming space. These individuals, our “roses,” grace our day program activities with their presence, enriching our days with their wisdom, humor and hugs. Frank, can you imagine the joy of spending over 120 hours a month in the company of such cherished companions?!
The time spent with our program members, which also serves as a much needed respite break for their caregivers, is not only necessary to their wellbeing but it is also an opportunity for us to nurture the flourishing garden that is Friendship Center. Within our beautiful Eucalyptus Lane courtyard, amidst laughter and shared moments, joy takes root and blossoms. Even in the face of some of life’s greatest challenges, Friendship Center remains a sanctuary where joy continues to thrive.
SBA: HOW TO DO BUSINESS WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
April 30 @ 10:00 am
Join SBA for an in-depth discussion on FY24 goals and building rapport with the US Department of Interior (DOI). Attend to learn about How to do business with the Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) at DOI, Practical tips and best practices for navigating the federal contracting process and maximizing opportunities, Guidance on leveraging resources and support available for small & disadvantaged businesses in the federal contracting arena and Get your burning questions answered during a lively Q&A session with experts in federal contracting and procurement. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to LADO@SBA.GOV at least 7 days in advance.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
For more than 50 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has celebrated National Small Business Week (NSBW), which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. NSBW is co-hosted by SCORE, mentors to America’s small businesses and a resource partner of SBA.
Join us in celebrating National Small Business Week and participate in the following events throughout the week! These events are at NO-COST. The events will cover different information that will help you START, GROW and EXPAND your small business.
SBA: HOW TO DO BUSINESS WITH NASA
April 24 @ 10:00 am
Discover the roadmap to federal contracting success. Join SBA for an in-depth discussion on FY24 goals and building rapport with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) hosted Tequio Rising on March 22nd, 2024, at Ventura County Community Foundation’s headquarters at 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd in Camarillo. During Tequio Rising, MICOP raised $57,700, surpassing the original goal of $50,000! This year marks the highest amount raised in MICOP history for Tequio Rising!
We are now taking applications for Dorfman Incubator Grants. Startups can apply for $5,000 to $50,000 in grant funding. Ideal candidates have a connection to Cal Lutheran as a student, alum, employee or employer of Cal Lutheran students.
SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara honored City Net as their Outstanding Community Partner of the Year. The Housing Authority created its annual partner award as a way of recognizing and thanking organizations and businesses that help change lives for the better. The supportive services provided to clients through a collaboration with City Net are an essential part of the Housing Authority’s holistic service delivery approach. Founded in 2005 in Long Beach, California, their mission is based on a commitment to break the cycle of homelessness in the communities they serve by connecting neighbors experiencing homelessness to transformative care and innovative housing solutions.
IN-PERSON EVENT: SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: STARTUP BASICS: FUNDAMENTALS OF STARTING A NEW BUSINESS
April 17 @ 8:30 am
Have you ever dreamed of owning your own business but don’t know where to start? Do you have the passion and work ethic but need education and guidance? Being a small business owner is exciting but understanding the lifestyle will clarify if it is right for you. Join SCORE Ventura County in this informative workshop and learn what it takes to be a successful business owner. Address: Thousand Oaks City Hall, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks.
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OXNARD — Oxnard College and the Oxnard College Foundation are partnering with researchers at California Lutheran University (CLU) and the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) to host an event on April 17, 2024, marking the publication of the annual U.S. Latino GDP Report. The report documents the economic contributions of the Latino community throughout the United States and identifies Latinos as major drivers of the pandemic recovery. The event will also feature never before released estimates of California’s Latino GDP.
SANTA BARBARA — Eleven instrumentalists and vocalists will compete for thousands of dollars in scholarships on April 28 after being selected as finalists for the annual Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation’s Competition Concert.
The foundation’s Audition Committee selected the finalists during auditions held April 5 and 6 at Music Academy of the West’s Weinmann Hall in Montecito. A total of 24 adults and youth competed to earn a place in the final competition.
Tomorrow, on April 10, 2024 we celebrate Cal Lutheran Cares Day, our annual day of fundraising and friend-raising. This year, we are focusing on our “People(s) of Color Scholarship” that provides graduate students from underrepresented groups with an opportunity to launch their graduate education, and our “Student Events and Competition Fund”, which helps us to build stronger bridges between companies, organizations, leaders, and our students – by bringing guest speakers, organizing competitions, or arranging field trips for our students.
SBA: HOW TO DO BUSINESS WITH US DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
April 9 @ 10:00 am
Driving Growth and Maximizing your potential. Learn from the Director of the Department of the Treasury / Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) on how to access the Federal Contracting.
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SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) is pleased to announce a new alliance with Arizona State University (ASU) to provide students a seamless transfer experience with the MyPath2ASU® program. MyPath2ASU allows students to take the steps needed, at the start of their college experience, to successfully plan their transfer to ASU, ensuring a smooth transition process and student success.
MyPath2ASU is a set of customized tools available to transfer students from accredited, U.S. regional institutions. These tools ensure a seamless transfer experience to ASU after earning credits or an associate degree from a U.S. community college or university and shortening the time to degree completion.
“SBCC has a strong transfer rate to four-year universities that include Arizona State University, who has created MyPath2ASU, of which we are proud to partner to extend our students opportunities and success,” said Angela Warren, SBCC University Transfer Academy Coordinator.
… The report starkly reveals the wage disparity. In 2023, “the mean hourly wage for farmworkers in Santa Barbara County was just $17.42 or $36,244 annually.” This is compared to heavy truck drivers, who received a median hourly wage of $26.76, translating to an annual wage of $55,672. At the same time, construction laborers earned a median hourly wage of $25.04, resulting in an annual wage of $52,104, according to the California Employment Development Department.
“In recent years, the increase in rent has been an issue that has affected me and my family. A better salary would give me access to better housing conditions and would also help me pay my rent, which continues to increase. A raise would also give me access to healthier meals for my family, and help us reap the rewards of my work,” said Matilde, Farmworker Leader with Alianza Campesina.
CAMARILLO — Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges are proud to announce that all three institutions are launching applied baccalaureate degree programs on their campuses. As a part of the California Baccalaureate Degree Pilot Program, these first of their kind degrees offer the Ventura County community increased access to affordable career education that will prepare them for well-paying jobs in the region.
SANTA MARIA — The Rotary Foundation and the Rotary Clubs of California are being honored by the Network of California Community College Foundations (NCCCF) with the organization’s prestigious Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year Award. According to the NCCCF, the organizations have provided $6.2 million in philanthropic support to benefit California community colleges across the state in recent years.
The honor includes the efforts of local Rotary clubs who support students at Allan Hancock College, thanks to hundreds of thousands of dollars of donations to the college’s nonprofit foundation as well as directly to students through scholarships.
“We’re fortunate to have such accomplished and experienced volunteers joining our board,” says Dr. Jon Hooten, executive director of the Foundation. “Each of these individuals care deeply about education and the future of the communities we serve. We’re honored that they are choosing to direct that passion toward serving Hancock’s students.”
EN ESPAÑOL: SBA: ACCESO AL CAPITAL – MICROCREDITOS
2 de abril a las 4:00 pm
Tiene su plan de negocios escrito, ha elegido el tipo de entidad legal bajo el cual operará y tiene un Número de Identificación del Contribuyente. Ya está en sus marcas, y ahora quiere estar listo para encontrar financiación. En este taller el SBA va a repasar préstamos para pequeños negocios respaldados por La Agencia Federal de Pequenos Negocios.
HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE
Our community’s collective heart breaks every time we hear of yet another death of an inmate in custody. Moreover, delays in medical care have caused costly delays in booking inmates, taxing our law enforcement resources. The Board of Supervisors has recently voted to establish the Jail Health Monitoring Unit under the Public Health Department to ensure County health experts are a part of the medical policy-making and quality assurance.
“The annual dredging project not only facilitates safer maritime navigation in the Ventura Harbor but is essential to maintain the economic vitality of commercial fishing, recreational boating, tourism, and all of our waterfront business partners,” shares Brian Pendleton, Ventura Port District General Manager.
IN-PERSON EVENT: SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: FOUR KEY MARKETING STRATEGIES TO ATTRACT MORE CUSTOMERS
March 27 @ 8:30 am
In this workshop you’ll learn SCORE’s top 4 strategies that can impact your Google ranking, including the importance of having your business show up in local search results and how you can leverage online reviews to attract more customers. SCORE will also show you ways you can use different types of paid ad strategies to get in front of more of your targeted customers. Lastly, they will touch on using social media to build your brand and create a more personalized experience for your followers. You don’t want to miss this! Address: Ventura City Hall, Community Meeting Room 202, Second Floor, 501 Poli St Ventura, CA.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
SANTA BARBARA — With the tax deadline around the corner, United Way of Northern Santa Barbara County is helping any taxpayer in Santa Barbara, regardless of income, receive each and every tax credit they are eligible for and maximize people’s tax returns completely free of charge — would you be interested in learning more?
Those interested in free tax services can go to the My Free Taxes website, enter their zip code, select an appointment time, and indicate language preferences (Spanish language support is available) and whether they need ITIN assistance.
The grants available are designed to revitalize and encourage the arts community in Ventura County. They aim to foster creativity, cooperation, and a greater involvement in the arts throughout the county. Whether you are an independent artist or part of an organization, you may be eligible to apply for these grants. The grants can be used to cover general expenses and to support new or existing projects.
SBA: WOMEN OWNED SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM WORKSHOP
March 20 @ 10:00 am
Join the Small Business Administration (SBA) Los Angeles District Office for a virtual workshop to increase your potential for federal contract opportunities through the WOSB program certifications. This virtual workshop is targeted to small businesses located in the SBA Los Angeles District Office service area — Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize Women’s History Month. Since 2010 the EDC has counseled over 3,000 women owned businesses and has helped generate over $22 billion in revenue. The EDC is dedicated in supporting women with achieving their business goals.
The EDC is proud to support the community by providing professional technical assistance in English and Spanish through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:
Start-up Guidance
Marketing & Branding
International Trade
E-commerce & Social Media
Manufacturing Assistance
Legal Compliance
Strategic Planning
QuickBooks & Accounting
And MORE
THOUSAND OAKS — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA seeks sponsors for its 25th Annual National Day of Prayer Breakfast. The breakfast is Thursday, May 2 at CLU’s Gilbert Sports Center in Thousand Oaks. The breakfast brings the spiritual communities of all faiths together to celebrate fellowship and prayer. The theme this year is “Pray For Peace.”
The prayer breakfast will be from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and will include speakers, spiritual and community leaders providing invocations and prayers, and live musical performances.
In December, the Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 to take the first step by adopting the Housing Element Update, which contains over 30 programs and policies designed to create more housing opportunities. Some of them include:
Work to develop a local preference program so that those who live and work here have first priority for new housing
Requiring affordable housing in new rental projects
Creating housing for farmworkers and other local employees
Increasing housing and emergency shelters for the homeless
“Through the commitments outlined in this MOU, our graduates will have a chance to access a high-quality, affordable college education close to home,” said Fillmore High School Principal Keith Derrick. “We are excited to work with CSUCI to enhance our students’ success and future options. This agreement is an important investment in the young people of our community.”
“We are taking our lead directly from the Advisory Council as they know, better than anyone, what their specific needs are,” said Richard Weston-Smith, COO of One805. “It is also important to note that many items are shared across the various organizations in Santa Barbara County. Mental health support is another critical category of support that helps to ensure that we are taking care of those who take care of us,” said Weston Smith.
SAN LUIS OBISPO — Uplift Central Coast Coalition (Uplift) is thrilled to announce it has been awarded $14 million from the California Regional Investment Initiative of the California Jobs First program (formerly known as the Community Economic Resilience Fund or CERF). Launched in 2021 by Governor Newsom, this initiative supported the establishment of Uplift, a coalition convened by three economic development agencies: REACH, Economic Development Collaborative (EDC), and Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP). The $14 million in funding, known as the “Catalyst Program,” will bolster Uplift’s ongoing efforts to craft strategic roadmaps and recommend investments for the 6-county Central Coast region.
AGOURA HILLS — Three “Be Like Carter” scholarships were awarded to Agoura High School students earlier this month. The scholarships are given out twice a year in memory of Carter Stone, an incoming freshman at Agoura High who passed away in 2022 unexpectedly just before the start of the school year and after making the football team.
Scholarship winners are Carter Roberts, a 12th grader who is on the football and baseball teams and overcame two injuries that required surgeries to continue to compete, Addison Reyes, an 11th grader who excels in track and field and soccer and, in addition, teaches kids to surf and Colin Hook, a 12thgrader who plays varsity football for Agoura High and is a certified lifeguard.
The plight of each of our unhoused neighbors is complicated,” stated 2ndDistrict Supervisor Jeff Gorell. “It requires an all-hands-on-deck approach. That’s what we are doing in the County of Ventura through the bold actions from the Board of Supervisors and recently adopted initiatives through the Strategic Plan Priority to Address Homelessness and lift up the most vulnerable.”
The expanded two-year Promise, also known as HP2, was announced on March 8 as the college welcomed more than 2,000 local high school students to its campus for the annual Career Exploration Day event. Many of the students in attendance will benefit from the Promises expansion when it goes into effect in Fall 2024.
“We’ve covered first-year tuition for five years now, and that has significantly increased the number of local students who have access to a college education,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “The two-year Promise will better support those students as they work to complete their degrees.”
SBA: DOING BUSINESS WITH THE US DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
March 13 @ 11:00 am
Join SBA as they discuss Federal Contracting Set-aside with the US Department of the Army – (US ARMY). Attend to learn about OSDBU’s role and how it can benefit your business, how to effectively position your business for federal contracting opportunities and explore key resources and tools available to support your business growth in the federal marketplace.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Homebuyer Workshop
Saturday, March 9, in-person @ Thousand Oaks
Saturday, March 16, in-person @ Bakersfield
Saturday, March 23, online
The grants available are designed to revitalize and encourage the arts community in Ventura County. They aim to foster creativity, cooperation, and a greater involvement in the arts throughout the county. Whether you are an independent artist or part of an organization, you may be eligible to apply for these grants. The grants can be used to cover general expenses and to support new or existing projects.
SBA: HOW TO DO BUSINESS WITH THE US DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES (HHS)
March 5 @ 12:00 pm
Hear directly from the Executive Director of OSDBU at HHS about their procurement process and priorities for 2024. Join BSA as they discuss Federal Contracting Set-aside with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
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California is currently experiencing an unusually high?number?of invasive fruit fly?detections, resulting in quarantines being established across numerous California counties, including Ventura County. These invasive fruit fly species – including Mediterranean fruit fly, Oriental fruit fly, Queensland fruit fly and tau fruit fly – are considered not established in California. The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), in cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and various County Agricultural Commissioners, has initiated local regulatory measures to eradicate and prevent the further spread of these fruit fly species statewide.
CAMARILLO — The Camarillo Sunrise Rotary Club, a local service organization comprised of local business leaders and committed to a wide range of local and global causes, has been a long-time supporter of kidSTREAM, Ventura County’s only children’s museum. The Rotary Club is hosting the Fourth Annual kidSTREAM Charity Golf Tournament at Las Posas Country Club Golf Course on Monday, April 29.
There are a few spots for golfers remaining through sponsorship of the tournament, and they can be found by going to kidSTREAM’s website at kidSTREAM.org, under “Upcoming Events”. In addition to the golf tournament a 3-day silent online auction will open to the public on tournament day.
The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will be analyzed based on twelve different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment, and strategic importance to the state or region.
VENTURA — On Tuesday, Feb. 27, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors adopted significant measures to combat homelessness with a proactive approach aimed at reducing the number of individuals facing housing instability. The actions taken by the Board reflect a comprehensive strategy outlined in the Updated Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness, as presented by LeSar Development Consultants on December 19, 2023, and align with the Board’s adopted Strategic Plan Priority to Address Homelessness and Lift Up the Most Vulnerable.
Recognizing the urgency of the issue, the Board has adopted recommendations to address homelessness from multiple angles, including homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing, housing prioritization, regional coordination, outreach, service delivery, data-driven decision making, and representation.
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College invites all college students to the Financial Aid Fest on Wednesday, February 28, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on SBCC’s Cliff Campus in the Eastern courtyard of the Student Services Building (East Campus).
Expert specialists will be available to assist students in completing FAFSA and Dream Act Applications. This event is open to ALL college students including AB-540 students and students from other colleges and universities like UCSB, Westmont, and Antioch are welcome to receive support.
DEMYSTIFYING THE FDA MOCRA 2022 COSMETICS RULES: WHAT BEAUTY BRANDS NEED TO KNOW
February 28 @ 10:00 am
Join Women in International Trade Orange County (WITOC) and the Economic Development Collaborative Go Global Trade Program (EDC GGTP) as we partner with Krieger Worldwide for an informative webinar explaining the key provisions of the forthcoming Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA) and how it establishes new requirements for the importation of cosmetics. This legislation introduces new requirements for cosmetic safety substantiation, supply chain transparency and labeling. Experts from Krieger Worldwide will provide clarity on the act’s scope, compliance timelines and strategies for company readiness.
SANTA BARBARA — Certified Financial Planner Dianne Duva, a founding partner of the wealth management firm Arlington Financial Advisors in Santa Barbara, has been named the company’s new managing partner.
A graduate of The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., Duva has worked at Arlington Financial Advisors since the firm launched in 2010. She advises high-net-worth families, business owners and women in transition. She helps clients understand and manage their net worth and solve complex financial problems by offering advice in an array of areas including retirement planning, insurance planning, estate and tax planning, and investment management. She holds the Certified Financial Planner® designation.
DEMYSTIFYING THE FDA MOCRA 2022 COSMETICS RULES: WHAT BEAUTY BRANDS NEED TO KNOW
February 28 @ 10:00 am
Join Women in International Trade Orange County (WITOC) and the Economic Development Collaborative Go Global Trade Program (EDC GGTP) as we partner with Krieger Worldwide for an informative webinar explaining the key provisions of the forthcoming Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA) and how it establishes new requirements for the importation of cosmetics. This legislation introduces new requirements for cosmetic safety substantiation, supply chain transparency and labeling. Experts from Krieger Worldwide will provide clarity on the act’s scope, compliance timelines and strategies for company readiness.
VENTURA — United Way of Ventura County’s Landlord Engagement Program has officially provided permanent housing for over 400 people with a 97.4% retention rate. This means 434 individuals, including 74 veterans, 54 seniors, and 153 children, now have a place to call home in our Ventura County community.
Homelessness and housing challenges are continuing to rise due to limited affordable housing supply, extremely low vacancy rates, and rising rents which all elevate the critical nature of this program. UWVC’s Landlord Engagement Program (LEP) advocates for and supports those prioritized for housing vouchers and housing subsidies provided by local jurisdictions and community partners.
“In today’s competitive housing market, many people are struggling to find affordable places to live,” said Mitchel Sloan, president, and CEO of UWVC. “Our Landlord Engagement Program is helping provide a safe place to call home for our community’s most vulnerable individuals, families, seniors and veterans.”
“The community played a pivotal role in creating this report as well as the 33 governance committee members who collaborated on and helped shape and inform the plan and work to date,” said Quinn Brady, Project Director of Uplift. “We are excited to share the outcomes of this collective effort.”
GOLETA — The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) celebrates a groundbreaking achievement as it extends its Digital Upskilling Training Program to Santa Barbara County, forging a collaborative partnership with the City of Goleta. Originating in Ventura County, EDC’s Digital Upskilling Training Program is a pioneering short-term training program expanding digital skills training opportunities. In addition to the program’s training goals, the initiative strives to create a replicable model that can be expanded statewide.
DEMYSTIFYING THE FDA MOCRA 2022 COSMETICS RULES: WHAT BEAUTY BRANDS NEED TO KNOW
February 28 @ 10:00 am
Join Women in International Trade Orange County (WITOC) and the Economic Development Collaborative Go Global Trade Program (EDC GGTP) as we partner with Krieger Worldwide for an informative webinar explaining the key provisions of the forthcoming Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA) and how it establishes new requirements for the importation of cosmetics. This legislation introduces new requirements for cosmetic safety substantiation, supply chain transparency and labeling. Experts from Krieger Worldwide will provide clarity on the act’s scope, compliance timelines and strategies for company readiness.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS MARKETING: SUPERCHARGE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT CREATION WITH THE POWER OF AI
February 28 @ 12:00 pm
Part 2 of the AI webinar series. Explore the real-world applications of AI. Don’t miss out on unlocking the potential of AI for your business success. Offered in partnership with EDC, WEV and SCORE. Spanish interpretation will be available.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: FRANCHISING 101 FOR VETERANS
January 31 @ 1:00 pm
Did you know that 1 out of 7 franchises is owned by a Veteran? Franchises appreciate the mindset and skills that military professionals possess and in appreciation, reward them with discounts and incentives if they are awarded a franchise. There are many misconceptions surrounding franchises and how a successful placement works. Also, with thousands of brands across nearly 100 categories, how would one really know which one is right for them? If a franchise is something you are thinking about for now, or someday this webinar is for you.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
-PURCHASE TICKETS- THANK YOU to our Nautically Noble Sponsors! Thomas & Nancy Crawford Sintija Kemezys Felder CenCal Health William & Jocelyne Meeker Katina Zaninovich Castle Wealth Planning Dr. David & Patty Medina Montecito Village Travel NS CERAMIC, Inc. Mark and…
Every few years Ventura County Animal Services holds a Dog Bed Donation Drive to replace kennel beds that have become damaged due to the wear and tear of thousands of animals. We need 205 beds to replace all beds at the Camarillo and Simi Valley Shelter. Will you donate a dog bed?
Visit www.vcas.us/DogBedDonation to donate a bed directly to the shelter. On this page you will find the exact type of bed our dogs need, and you’ll see how many beds have already been purchased. Beds are automatically shipped to the Camarillo Shelter. Feel free to leave an “In Memory of” or “In Honor of” message when checking out. Thank you so much for your support!
SANTA BARBARA — DignityMoves’s Santa Barbara Capital Campaign has been awarded a $100,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation. The Foundation is the charitable arm of Cox Enterprises, parent company of Cox Communications, and named after the company’s founder. The funds will support a housing community called “La Posada Village,” with the goal of reducing homelessness in Santa Barbara County.
“DignityMoves is honored to be the recipient of a James M. Cox Foundation grant. We are incredibly grateful for this type of community support. Without partners like Cox, we cannot help as many people as we do,” said Jack Lorenz, Regional Advancement Director for DignityMoves.
AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS 101: HOW TO LEVERAGE AI TO ACCELERATE YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH
January 24 @ 12:00 pm
Explore the real-world applications of AI. Don’t miss out on unlocking the potential of AI for your business success. Offered in partnership with EDC, WEV and SCORE. Spanish interpretation will be available.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
EN ESPAÑOL: IA PARA NEGOCIOS 101: CÓMO APROVECHAR LA IA PARA ACELERAR EL CRECIMIENTO DE TU NEGOCIO
24 de enero a las 12:00 pm
Explora las aplicaciones de la IA en el mundo real. No te pierdas la oportunidad de desbloquear el potencial de la IA para el éxito de tu negocio. Ofrecido en asociación con EDC, WEV y SCORE. Habrá interpretación al español.
HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE
VENTURA COUNTY — The Museum of Ventura County extends heartfelt gratitude to our vibrant community for its unwavering generosity, allowing us to offer free admission throughout 2023. As we look ahead to the new year, the Museum of Ventura County, Downtown Ventura location, will undergo a transition in its admission policy beginning February 1, 2024. The grant that has sustained free admission will conclude, necessitating a shift to a sustainable funding model.
Starting February 1, 2024, the Museum of Ventura County, Downtown Ventura, will implement the following admission fees:
OXNARD — Agromin, California’s largest organic waste recycler, received a $10 million grant from CalRecycle’s Organics Grant Program to help communities turn more of their food waste and yard waste into compost.
CalRecycle’s Organics Grant Program is a statewide effort to expand and build new organic recycling facilities, allowing more waste to be recycled instead of ending up in landfills where it emits greenhouse gases.
“The grant funds will help Agromin move forward on expanding our composting facility at Limoneira Ranch in Santa Paula,” says Bill Camarillo, Agromin CEO. “We’re currently processing over one million tons of organic waste a year. Once the expansion is complete, we’ll be able to boost that amount to almost 300,000.”
SANTA BARBARA — Last week, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) broke ground on its newest affordable housing: Buellton Garden Apartments.
Located at 10 & 12 McMurray Road in Buellton, near essential services, this new development is comprised of 89 units. Including one-, two-, and three-bedroom units for low-income households, it features a welcoming community room, well-resourced learning center, and onsite supportive services for residents.
“We are thrilled to bring more affordable housing to the community members of the Santa Ynez Valley with our first ever project in Buellton,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “We look forward to watching this site develop and come to life over the next couple years. It’s been a long time in the making, and we are grateful to officially have shovels in the ground.”
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) issued an Administrative Disaster Declaration on Jan. 10 for damages to businesses and homes resulting from the Storm and Flooding that occurred Dec. 21-23, 2023. It is important that homeowners, renters or business owners apply for assistance to initiate an SBA application as a result of physical damage by the Physical Damage deadline of March 11, 2024. The Economic Injury Deadline is October 10, 2024.
Counties Impacted by the Disaster Declaration
Primary County: Ventura County
Contiguous Counties: Kern, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. These counties are also eligible for both physical damage and economic injury benefits.
VENTURA COUNTY — The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest disaster loans to non-farm businesses of all sizes, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters who suffered losses caused by the December 2023 Storm and Flooding that occurred December 21 through December 23, 2023.
A SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center has been opened at the South Oxnard Branch Library, 4300 Saviers Road, Oxnard, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays.
OCEANO — We’re encouraging low-income customers to apply for help paying their current or past-due water and sewer bills by signing up for the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). Customers now have until March 31, 2024, to apply, and eligible households should apply now while funds last.
LIHWAP, initially established by Congress in December 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, is designed to support financially struggling low-income households to settle outstanding water bills. Originally slated to conclude in Fall 2023, the program has received a federal extension through March 2024.
AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS 101: HOW TO LEVERAGE AI TO ACCELERATE YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH
January 24 @ 12:00 pm
Explore the real-world applications of AI. Don’t miss out on unlocking the potential of AI for your business success. Offered in partnership with EDC, WEV and SCORE. Spanish interpretation will be available.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
VENTURA — Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, the Ventura College Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides resources and financial assistance to Ventura College students and school programs, distributed $809,995 in direct assistance support to over 5,000 students during the 2022-2023 academic year and another $1.17 million to 68 Ventura College programs across 16 departments and divisions.
“Since the foundation’s inception, it’s raised over $48 million to benefit Ventura College students and programs. There is no better way to celebrate the foundation’s 40thanniversary than to contribute another $2 million to help remove the financial barriers to education that students face,” says Anne Paul King, Ventura College Foundation executive director.
VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) begins 2024 by announcing $88,000 in new funds for the development of affordable housing in Ventura County. The funds come in the form of $85,000 in grants from U.S. Bank, First Citizen’s Bank and PennyMac Financial Services as well as $3,000 in year-end contributions from private donors. The amount will be applied toward the increased need for affordable housing funding as the staggering need for housing continues to grow.
The Festival of Hearts, Friendship Center’s premier annual fundraiser now in its 25th year, celebrates caregivers and raises funds for low-income seniors living with dementia to enjoy our specialized programs that uniquely provide social, physical and cognitive engagement.
Since the first Festival of Hearts in 2000, the heart and soul of the event has been the heart-art sold at silent auction, and created by local artists and celebrities, including Jeff Bridges, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tony Askew and Rod Lathim. Provided with a blank three-dimensional papier-mâché heart, the imaginative “heart-ists” paint, sculpt, and decorate in various ways to create their unique works.
The 25th Festival of Hearts, slated for Saturday, February 3, 2024 from 12:00 to 2:30 p.m at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort will include musical entertainment, a silent auction, a live auction,
The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our no-cost events and webinars. Space is limited. Register today!
Plan ahead! Our full EDC and partner event schedule is updated at the start of each month.
AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS 101: HOW TO LEVERAGE AI TO ACCELERATE YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH
January 24 @ 12:00 pm
Explore the real-world applications of AI. Don’t miss out on unlocking the potential of AI for your business success. Offered in partnership with EDC, WEV and SCORE. Spanish interpretation will be available.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
SANTA BARBARA — Local financial planning firm Arlington Financial Advisors marked a major milestone in the company’s growth in December: surpassing $1 billion in client assets.
The achievement comes as the company celebrates its 13th year in business serving the Santa Barbara community. Members of the Arlington Financial team, including partners Joe Weiland, Arthur Swalley, John Lorenz, Dianne Duva, Wells Hughes, and Cody Makela, celebrated the firm’s accomplishments with clients and friends recently at their historic offices on De la Guerra.
“I am immensely proud of the results that our team has been able to achieve. I am particularly proud of the fact that we have reached this milestone one client at a time,” said Managing Partner Joseph Weiland, CFP. “We formed this firm in 2010 to allow our team to provide trusted advice and financial peace of mind for our clients. They have responded with loyalty and sharing our services with their family and friends. There is no better way to build a business.”
SANTA BARBARA — More than 40 service agencies and associations, as well as community nonprofits and organizations, in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties have already received or will receive community benefits funding in 2023 from the local health plan CenCal Health. By the end of this year, over $530,000 will have been distributed by the local Medi-Cal health plan to support and improve the overall health and wellness of communities in its two-county service area.
“During this holiday season of giving, all of us at CenCal Health want to highlight those local agencies and organizations that – in various ways – serve all our residents, including our members, and especially the most vulnerable of our children, youth and seniors,” said CenCal Health CEO Marina Owen.
Have you heard about our newest program in partnership with the City of Camarillo? The Camarillo Workforce Housing Down Payment Assistance Program is designed to help local working households purchasing in Camarillo achieve their dream of homeownership.
With up to $50,000 in the form of a ten (10) year deferred loan, low-and moderate-income first-time homebuyers can receive the financial support they need to make their homeownership dreams a reality. Plus, these funds can be combined with VCCDC’s other programs to maximize purchasing power.
VCCDC’s partnership with the City of Camarillo underscores our shared commitment to supporting the community and helping individuals achieve their homeownership goals. We encourage eligible and qualified individuals to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to achieve their dream of homeownership!
SANTA BARBARA — Quinn Fiduciary Services, a local professional fiduciary firm, has been purchased by Tamara Skov and Shannon Dalton.
Jackie Quinn, the founder of Quinn Fiduciary Services (QFS), remains involved with the firm to ensure a seamless transition over the next several months. Skov and Dalton, both licensed professional fiduciaries, have been with QFS for several years and the rest of the team will remain the same.
Quinn Fiduciary Services specializes in estate management serving as Trustees, Successor Trustees, Conservators, and Agents under financial and healthcare Powers of Attorney.
Located at 10 & 12 McMurray Road, near essential services, this new development is comprised of 89 units. Including one-, two-, and three-bedroom units for low-income households, it features a welcoming community room, well-resourced learning center, and onsite supportive services for residents.
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is giving high school seniors and current Hancock students a helping hand preparing to apply for spring classes and filling out their financial aid applications at a series of free workshops in December and January.
During Hancock’s Winter Promise workshops, students and their parents will be able to get assistance applying to attend Hancock, applying for scholarships through the Santa Barbara Foundation and preparing and submitting their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA ) and Dream Act applications.
The workshops are free and will be available in English and Spanish.
VENTURA — Older adults seeking employment can make plans to attend a Job Fair that will be held in tandem with the 2024 Wellness Fest that will take place at the Goebel Adult Community Center in Thousand Oaks on Wednesday, January 17.
The Workforce Committee of the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s Advisory Council is putting on the Job Fair, which will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. that day.
Employers who are confirmed to be at the event include:
America’s Job Center of California
Boys & Girls Club
City of Thousand Oaks
Conejo Valley Unified School District
County of Ventura
Villa Esperanza
Join EDC, Women’s Economic Ventures and SCORE for a NO-COST webinar series on how you can use AI to leverage your business! Spanish interpretation will be available.
AI for Business 101: How to Leverage AI to Accelerate your Business Growth
January 24 @ 12:00 pm
AI for Small Business Marketing: Supercharge your Social Media Content Creation with the Power of AI
February 28 @ 12:00 pm
Explore the real-world applications of AI. Don’t miss out on unlocking the potential of AI for your business success.
Register today!
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUude-trz8sHNRmYCUJx5uVPyyyTn22J-cV#/registration
The Festival of Hearts, Friendship Center’s premier annual fundraiser now in its 25th year, celebrates caregivers and raises funds for low-income seniors living with dementia to enjoy our specialized programs that uniquely provide social, physical and cognitive engagement.
Since the first Festival of Hearts in 2000, the heart and soul of the event has been the heart-art sold at silent auction, and created by local artists and celebrities, including Jeff Bridges, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tony Askew and Rod Lathim. Provided with a blank three-dimensional papier-mâché heart, the imaginative “heart-ists” paint, sculpt, and decorate in various ways to create their unique works.
VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON
Homebuyer Workshop
Saturday, February 3, online
Saturday, February 24, in-person @ Harvest at Limoneira in Santa Paula
If homeownership is one of your goals this year (or anytime in the future), our Homebuyer Education Workshop is the place to be! Learn all about homebuying – from credit to down payment assistance and everything in between! There is no cost for you to attend and you’ll enjoy hearing from a variety of expert speakers who will give you the latest and greatest on credit, money management, real estate, mortgage loans, insurance and more! Plus get your HUD certificate which can be used to access down payment assistance programs like the upcoming California Dream for All. Register for FREE today!
Cleaver & Clark Commons is an affordable housing community that will serve families, farmworkers, and those at risk of homelessness. Comprised of two buildings, this new development will bring 53 one-, two-, and three-bedroom units to the City of Grover Beach. Features of the site include an interior courtyard, drought-tolerant landscaping, and two community rooms for resident gatherings. Residents will also have access to onsite property management, and service-enriched support.
Join Economic Development Collaborative Go Global Trade Program (EDC GGTP) and the Women in International Trade Orange County (WITOC) as we partner with Krieger Worldwide for an informative webinar explaining the key provisions of the forthcoming MoCRA Act and how it establishes new requirements for the importation of cosmetics.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — SoCal Museums announces the 19th Annual Museums Free-for-All on Saturday, March 23, 2024. Over 30 museums—presenting art, cultural heritage, natural history, and science—will open their doors and invite visitors to attend free of charge.
Locally, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (SBMNH), and the Museum of Ventura County, all members of SoCal Museums, will participate in offering free admission. In the case of SBMNH, booking advanced reservations by visiting sbnature.org is encouraged and free admission is for the museum only, not the Sea Center.
CAMARILLO — Moorpark College, Oxnard College, Ventura College and Ventura College East Campus are holding free Cash 4 College workshops to help students apply for funds to help with college costs. Funds can be used for tuition, books, housing, transportation, childcare, computers and more.
In-person workshops are scheduled for February and March. The workshops are free and open to the community; anyone may attend a workshop at any location and can drop in at any time during the events.
Attend and get a HUD Certificate to help you access first-time homebuyer loans and down payment assistance programs
VENTURA COUNTY — in partnership with the City of Ventura and the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, SCORE will launch a series of in-person no cost workshops that will help local entrepreneurs and business owners gain valuable and practical knowledge from subject matter experts on a wide range of business-related topics.
The workshop series will kick off on March 27 with the topic “Four Key Marketing Strategies to Attract More Customers”. The event will be held at the Ventura City Hall Community Meeting Room at 8:30AM. The workshop will be led by Steve James who is a Digital Marketing Consultant with the firm RevLocal. Topics covered will include how to enhance your Google ranking, how to harness the power of reviews and how to master paid advertising.
SAN LUIS OBISPO — The County of San Luis Obispo’s Veterans Services Office (VSO) and Atascadero’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #2814 is proud to announce a family-friendly pop-up resource fair for Veterans in the North County. The event will occur on April 6th from 10am-2pm on the Veterans Memorial Lawn in Atascadero, near the Faces of Freedom Veterans Memorial.
“The Final Fore Golf Tournament is a great opportunity to celebrate the success of our athletic programs here at Allan Hancock,” said Hancock Athletic Director Kim Ensing. “We were thrilled about the support we received at the event over the last two years and are excited to continue building on that this year. We’re looking forward to providing an environment that will allow people to take a break from their daily grind, enjoy the outdoors, and rally around the goal of supporting our efforts to provide a meaningful experience for these athletes.”
With millions of Californians falling prey to financial frauds and scams, it’s important more than ever to learn how to protect your
personal and financial information.
THOUSAND OAKS — When people think of professional sports, they envision the competition: the games and matches that happen on the field of play. But there is a vast network of behind-the-scenes leadership and staff who manage the players, control the finances and promote the games. At California Lutheran University’s Business of Sports Event, Angel City Football Club (ACFC) executives for the professional women’s soccer team will sit down with Mark Orlando, director of the sports management program at Cal Lutheran’s School of Management, for an in-depth discussion of the business side of sports. The free event for students and the community will be from 5:45 – 7:30 p.m. on April 17 at the Gilbert Sports and Fitness Center on the California Lutheran University campus.
SANTA BARBARA — Join Community Environmental Council, the Santa Barbara Independent and Santa Barbara City College School of Extended Learning for a thought-provoking panel discussion at CEC Environmental Hub (1219 State Street) on Thursday, May 9, from 6:00-7:30 p.m. The discussion is about advancing sustainable development in an era of unprecedented housing growth. Learn more about the challenges such significant growth poses to advancing goals for sustainable development, and hear possible solutions that can inform further community discussion. This is an effort to understand the impacts and planning of nearly 15,000 housing units on the South Coast by the County of Santa Barbara and its incorporated cities over the next eight years. Register for the panel discussion.
THOUSAND OAKS — The Greater Contribution, a non-profit that provides micro loans for women in remote villages in Uganda, hosts a “A Woman’s Worth” celebration Sunday, May 19th from 3:00pm to 5:30pm in Thousand Oaks.
In a beautiful outdoor garden, guests will enjoy live entertainment with Ugandan dancers, African drumming, storytelling, and international foods and refreshments. Dedicated to empowering Ugandan women to reach higher, this exclusive fundraising event gives guests an immersive cultural experience while enabling brighter futures and stronger communities beyond our borders.
Tickets are $40 per person, or $30 each with a friend; available at www.greatercontribution.org/a-womans-worth
CAMARILLO — Employment law firm LightGabler LLP is presenting a free employment law webinar for employers, “Protect My Job, I Might Come Back! A Map Through the Maze of Leave of Absence Laws in California.” The webinar is Monday, May 20 from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
California has the most leave of absence laws of any state. To avoid costly litigation while maintaining functional business operations, employers must understand what leaves are available, know when a leave is appropriate for a particular employee, correctly apply available rights for covered employees, and manage what employee obligations can or cannot be enforced.
Created by the founders of Mujeres Makers Market, Mujeres Summit 2024 helps existing and potential small business owners learn from entrepreneurs’ experiences and challenges and share valuable and practical resources.
Get a Chance to Meet EDC Director of Strategic Relations Alondra Gaytán!
EDC Director of Strategic Relations Alondra Gaytán, will speak about insights on forging pathways to inclusive economic development.
Click Alondra’s image below to read her bio!
We’re thrilled to announce our 2024 virtual conference for homebuyers across Central and Southern California is almost here!
Spring into action and mark your calendars for our workshops this month! From in-person workshops to webinars, we make it convenient for you to access the information you need. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn, connect, and grow.
Join the City of Oxnard to learn how to take your business to the next level with a digital presence and by marketing on social media! Learn the tips of the trade with two expert presenters, Steve James and EDC Small Business Development Center advisor Wangari Njathi.
Attendance is at NO-COST, but registration is requested
Date: Wednesday, June 26 at 9:00 am
Address: Oxnard Public Library, 251 S. A Street – Room B
CLICK HERE to register
Join us for a Museum of Ventura County Fundraiser that offers an extraordinary afternoon with Ruth and Angie McCartney, interviewed by renowned author Ivor Davis. Enjoy authentic English tea service as we explore enchanting stories from Paul McCartney’s life. Don’t miss this unique blend of British charm and rock ‘n’ roll history! – Ticket sales end on July 9th –
“This event is a great opportunity to come together and give back to our community and we look forward to hosting it every year,” said Jay McCord, a Model A Ford Club member and car show chairman. “Many of the students that received past scholarships now have successful careers in their industry.”
“This is a great opportunity for both residents and businesspeople to interact with exhibitors. Help support the local economy by doing business in your own backyard!” says President & CEO Nancy Lindholm.
“The State of the City Address is a special opportunity to connect with our community, celebrate what we’ve achieved, and share our vision for the future,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “I’m proud of how staff, nonprofits, and local agencies have come together with optimism and innovation to tackle new challenges. As we look ahead, I want to recognize the tireless efforts of City staff, whose dedication brings our vision to life. There’s so much to be proud of, and I encourage everyone to join us and see how we’re building a stronger, more resilient Ventura.”
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!
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!
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!
About the Ventura County Taxpayers Foundation
The Ventura County Taxpayer’s Foundation (VCTF) is a non-partisan 501(C)(3) organization emphasizing issues that affect Ventura County. Empowering Taxpayers, Building Trust, and Safeguarding Resources.
SANTA BARBARA — On Wednesday, Oct. 30, Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) College Fair Night will connect local high school students with admission representatives from more than 70 postsecondary institutions, including in-state and out-of-state colleges as well as public and private universities. This is a great opportunity for students to engage in discussions about majors, course offerings, admission requirements, and college life while also receiving valuable information to guide their future educational paths.
Save the Date for
Friendship Center’s 12th Annual
Wine Down
……with a wicked twist….!
Sip,
Savor,
Dance,
and
?Dress to Thrill-
All for a Night of Everlasting Goodwill!
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.
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.
As the Mountain Fire continues to affect parts of Ventura County, we want to make sure you have the latest resources and support available to protect your operations, workers, and property. Our hearts go out to everyone impacted, and we’re here to assist however we can.
Partnering with local organizations like VC CoLAB, the Ag Commissioner, UCCE, VCRCD, USDA-FSA, and Thomas Fire victims, and more we have initiated a series of webinars for the ag community to get updates, ask questions, and support eachother in a speedy recovery.
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.
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’.
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.
The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will be analyzed based on twelve different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment, and strategic importance to the state or region.
Application Period Timeline: For the remainder of the 2023-2024, applications for the California Competes Tax Credit will be accepted during the following periods:
January 2, 2024 – January 22, 2024
March 4, 2024 – March 18, 2024
CAMARILLO — From February to September, CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) alumnus Lyndsay Peterson and her partner and former classmate Bryan Castro run their bee business, “Bryan’s Bees.” Business is brisk until October when the bees go into hibernation.
“We would have to lay everybody off in October,” Castro said. “We were like, what can we do between October and the beginning of February when bee season begins?”
And that’s how “Bee Merry” came to be. During the off season, Peterson, Castro, and a team of about ten workers travel around the region decorating homes for Halloween, Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali (the Hindu festival of lights that falls between October and November) and other events and celebrations. At this point, Bee Merry is doing even better than Bryan’s Bees.
“We’ve done 200 houses this season,” Castro said. “Celebrity estates, commercial buildings, businesses. Most of our clients are in the luxury market. This week we are doing the home of a rock star and the Four Seasons in Westlake Village.”
CENTRAL COAST — As the year comes to a close, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) extends immense gratitude to the communities, partners and philanthropists who work together in support of the organization.
As the need has grown, so has People’s Self-Help Housing. Now operating in four counties, the fifty-three-year-old nonprofit daily serves over 5,000 residents who live at its 56 properties and is proud to have helped a similar number of people build their own homes.
In support of these families, seniors, veterans, those coming out of homelessness and people living with disabilities, PSHH has launched its 2023 Appeal.
“Thank you to all our supporters,” says CEO & President Ken Trigueiro, “through your expertise, generosity and commitment you have made our mission possible.
SBA WOSB: WELCOME TO WOSB WEBINAR
December 21 @ 7:00 am
The Welcome to WOSB webinar series will introduce prospective WOSB firms to the program and the application process.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
CAMARILLO —The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) is now enrolling employees in workplace English language training at NO-COST, thanks to a one-time grant from the Employment Training Panel. This opportunity is specifically designed to serve workers who are immigrants and refugees or non-English speakers within the agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
To provide accessible career-aligned English upskilling courses, EDC is partnering with EnGen, a registered BCorp delivering English language training for workers at many of America’s largest corporations. Training benefits include:
Yolanda Marquez dreamt of owning her own home, a place where her family of five could relax, be creative, and host family get-togethers. As a working-class family, she cherished sharing the traditions that come with raising a family and making memories by spending quality time together. As each year passed, she felt her dream was slipping away due to increasing housing prices and down payment requirements. She knew in her heart that one day her current arrangement could quickly end: the home where she lived was owned by someone else and her fear was that her rental house would be redeemed with little notice. In addition, annual rent increases meant less money to save for her own.
To make matters even more challenging, the Marquezes lived with another family under the same roof. As convenient as this was, Yolanda knew her family that includes three teenagers didn’t have the privacy afforded to families with their own home. Once she heard about Ventura County Community Development Corporation from her realtor, she was determined to change her circumstances and learn what she could do to buy her own place.
She tapped into all the information provided by VCCDC including how she could become mortgage ready and qualify to receive down payment assistance worth over $100,000, made available to low-to moderate-income households. She decided this was the time to make her dream a reality and began taking steps to purchase her own home.
VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) has been awarded $5,000,000 from the Southern California Association of Governments’ (SCAG) as part of the Regional Early Action Planning (REAP) 2.0 Lasting Affordability program. The funding will support the creation of the Housing Trust Fund Ventura County’s Revolving Long- Term Loan Program for Infill Affordable Housing Developments Project. This project will establish a long-term loan program and will increase the lending capacities of Housing Trust Fund VC. In addition, this grant will provide resources to Housing Land Trust Ventura County (Housing Land Trust VC) to create policies and procedures which will advance Housing Land Trust VC to attract additional capital and land donations. The anticipated outcomes from the new fund include 656 affordable housing units in Ventura County by 2031.
SJFVC Fellow Marisol Gonzalez Building
Fillmore Relationships
Last week, SJFVC Fellow Marisol Gonzalez and Board Member Kim Marra Stephenson presented to the Fillmore Lions Club about SJFVC and Marisol’s work in establishing the Fillmore Conservation Corps.
Every day, your investments are creating opportunities, changing lives, and strengthening communities throughout the Central Coast of California.
SBA: HOW TO START A BUSINESS
December 18 @ 10:00 am
Are you interested in starting a business? If you are please join the Small Business Administration (SBA) Los Angeles District Office for a virtual workshop to learn about SBA’s 10 Step Guide on How to Start a Business. This virtual workshop targeted to new entrepreneurs. Topics covered from creating a business plan, finding capital, registering your business, getting necessary permits and/or licenses and getting a business bank account. This is a great opportunity to get any questions you may have answered and find out about the multiple resources available to help you. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to LADO@SBA.GOV at least 7 days in advance.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to double your donation! Any gift received by December 10 will be 100% matched.
Just $15 can open the door to discovery for one child. Imagine the impact we can make by reaching ALL the schools in our County. We’re on a mission to raise $150,000 to double the number of tours and pay for more bus rides.
Every donation, no matter how big or small, has the power to ignite a child’s curiosity, nurture a college student’s career, and shape the future of Ventura County.
The Museum of Ventura County Relaunches its 100% Tax Deductible Membership Program, Offering Accessible Pricing and Exclusive Benefits
MVC’s updated Membership Program features monthly payment options, two new membership levels, an expanded selection of member events and benefits, exclusive member merchandise, and MORE! As admission fees are reinstated at MVC’s Downtown Ventura campus in 2024, the relaunched Membership Program affords visitors a completely tax-deductible alternative and maintains the institution’s dedication to accessibility.
Save the date for a Community Update with Uplift Central Coast on Zoom, January 25 at 12:00 pm. Uplift will share project updates, key findings from their community engagement and research and hear from partners about the work ahead.
Register for the community update HERE!
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC), Ventura County’s premier youth mentoring nonprofit organization, held their 14th annual Bags, Bling & Bubbly champagne luncheon on Wednesday, November 9th at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village.
This sparkling event started with an amazing boutique and silent auction, where a collection of designer and vintage handbags, jewelry, accessories, vacation getaways, restaurant outings, and more were available for purchase and bidding.
Dear MVC Supporter,
Thank you for your generous support! We’ve made great progress towards our goal, but there’s still some distance to cover.
MVC is on a mission to reach every elementary school in Ventura County. Your generous gift can bring us closer to our $150,000 goal.
A $150 donation brings a group of 10 eager learners to the MVC Agriculture Museum, inspiring them to dig deep into Ventura County agricultural history and the world of plant science. Can you imagine the joy of planting seeds, exploring a beehive, and discovering the essence of collaboration and community? This is what MVC is all about.
SBA: INTRO TO GOVT CONTRACTING
December 5 @ 10:00 am
This webinar will provide a brief overview of SBA programs and services, with an emphasis on SBA’s federal contracting resources! Have you considered, is government contracting a good fit for your business ? This will be an intro to small business certification programs. Government contracts are a tremendous financial opportunity for small businesses, and the U.S. government is the largest customer in the world. It buys all types of products and services — in both large and small quantities — and it’s required by law to consider buying from small businesses. The SBA has several contracting assistance programs, and federal contracting resources available to assist entrepreneurs. This is a great opportunity to get any questions you may have answered and find out about the multiple resources available to help you on your way to small business success. This event will take place online, please register for the log on information. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to lado@sba.gov at least 7 days in advance.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
NOVEMBER | 2023
California Lutheran University’s School of Management continues to provide a stimulating environment for our learners and the community around us, even in these unusual times. Today, we are once again happy to share a selection of exciting news, updates, and upcoming events with our communities in Southern California and beyond.
We encourage you to stay current on what’s going on at the School of Management by following our Showcase page on LinkedIn.
CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has received $5,000 from The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County as a part of the Foundation’s ‘Opportunity to Thrive Initiative’.
This generous award will support PSHH residents in San Luis Obispo County through the Emergency Assistance Fund, which will provide emergency financial support for medical, food and utilities to residents in deep need. Funds are utilized when all other potential resolutions and community resources have been exhausted. Each year, thousands of dollars are distributed to those facing urgent financial emergencies.
“Our thanks go to The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County,” said Ken Trigueiro CEO & President, “With this incredible gift, residents can feel safe and secure at home and within their neighborhoods no matter what challenges they may be facing.”
Do you remember the thrill of your first museum visit? At the Museum of Ventura County (MVC), we strive to gift this unforgettable experience to every child in our community – particularly those from low to moderate income families.
Your generous support enables us to offer FREE school tours immersing children in the rich history and culture of Ventura County. Plus, your contribution also aids first-generation college interns, offering them valuable work experience while earning a fair wage. Donate today and help us inspire curiosity, connection, and compassion in Ventura County’s future generations.
P.S. Act before December 10, and an anonymous donor will match your donation 100%! Double your impact by clicking HERE today!
DOUBLE YOUR CONTRIBUTION TODAY!
MEINERS OAKS — Assemblymember Steve Bennett, in partnership with Senator Monique Limón, secured $500,000 from the State Budget to create a community park in Meiners Oaks. The 2-acre county-owned parcel is located on 312 E. El Roblar Drive, Meiners Oaks, CA. The current design concept features native vegetation, interpretive education, and social gathering areas. A check presentation is being coordinated with Supervisor LaVere’s office for early 2024.
“Open space has been at the heart of my work since I entered public office. I’m pleased to preserve more public spaces for Meiners Oaks, and deeply grateful to our partners who helped make this happen,” said Assemblymember Bennett.
PORT HUENEME — Earlier this month, the Port of Hueneme was awarded a $2 million federal grant for planning activities related to a parking structure that will serve as the transfer point between ocean-going vessels and the rail or trucks being used to transport automobiles off port. This Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) grant is only a portion of grant funding efforts from the Department of Transportation Maritime Administration to decarbonize, upgrade, and rehabilitate key ports along California’s coast.
“This PIDP grant is a great opportunity to invest in infrastructure at the Port. It’s an investment that will bolster the efficiency of our operations,” said Jess Herrera, President of the Oxnard Harbor District. “This funding will also provide us with additional tools and opportunities to further facilitate clean air efforts and support our local workforce through promoting job growth.”
SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures and United Way of Santa Barbara County are teaming up this holiday season to help you provide gifts for young people in need.
Audiences for Arts & Lectures’ two big holiday shows –Mariachi Sol de México in José Hernández’ Merry-Achi Christmas at the Arlington Theatre on December 6 andSamara Joy’s A Joyful Holiday at The Granada Theatre on December 8 – are invited to donate to United Way’s annual Holiday Gift Drive. Tickets to both shows are available now from UCSB Arts & Lectures (805) 893-3535 and via the Arlington and Granada box offices.
MONTECITO — The Rotary Club of Montecito Foundation has awarded a total of $14,000 to support the work of 14 Santa Barbara-area nonprofit organizations.
The grants awarded under the foundation’s annual Community Grants Program were $1,000 each and go to organizations benefitting a wide range of constituents, including children, seniors, low-income families, and the performing arts. All grants are funded by bequests and ongoing contributions from the club’s members.
“The Rotary Club of Montecito is committed to raising funds for good causes, and supporting activities and projects that make our communities stronger,” said Rotary Club President Tony Morris. “These grants allow us to support a wide variety of services to our community and are a great example of the cooperative spirit that’s an essential part of Rotary’s work.
THOUSAND OAKS — It’s the 18th Annual Black-Tie No-Show Dinner, a fun fundraising event to benefit The Greater Contribution, a So Cal non-profit that helps transform lives by providing micro loans to women in remote villages of Uganda so they can start their own businesses and lift their families out of poverty.
Brainchild of founder Karon Wright, the organization has already provided more than 30,000 micro loans since its inception in 2007, with an astounding 98% repayment rate. Rather than allocating funds toward party overhead, proceeds will go directly to empowering Ugandan women by believing in them. The three-year program includes literacy and business training and mentorship so they get a hand up, not a hand out.
In our most recent cohort of our Fellowship program, the Social Justice Fund was able to fund seven Fellows – the most in the history of the Social Justice Fellowship program! Thanks to your donations, our Fellows have been able to track data on the clean up efforts of Oxnard beaches, create a new youth-led conservation program in Fillmore, and hold community events for disabled individuals in Ventura County. Additionally, thanks to the generosity of donors like you, we have made significant strides toward our fundraising goal of 100k. Your commitment to empowering social justice leaders has played a vital role in our success so far.
THOUSAND OAKS — The Center for Nonprofit Leadership at California Lutheran University successfully raised more than $1.5 million, reaching that goal in one year with the largest single donation in the organization’s more than 30-year history.
The TOLD Foundation of Camarillo donated the $1 million gift that led off CNL’s Campaign for the Future to create an endowment to insure CNL will continue to offer professional training valued by thousands of nonprofit staff and volunteers.
“We are thrilled the Center for Nonprofit Leadership reached its goal in the Campaign for the Future,” said Rod Gilbert, TOLD Foundation president. “This is a remarkable achievement during challenging economic times. The foundation applauds all who worked toward the campaign’s success, and we thank the generous donors who also contributed.”
In addition to the TOLD Foundation, some four dozen Central Coast philanthropists gave to the campaign, led by co-chairs Kate McLean and Sally Yount. A full roster of donors can be found at callutheran.edu/cnl/sponsors/
SBA: INTRO TO GOVT CONTRACTING
December 5 @ 10:00 am
This webinar will provide a brief overview of SBA programs and services, with an emphasis on SBA’s federal contracting resources! Have you considered, is government contracting a good fit for your business ? This will be an intro to small business certification programs. Government contracts are a tremendous financial opportunity for small businesses, and the U.S. government is the largest customer in the world. It buys all types of products and services — in both large and small quantities — and it’s required by law to consider buying from small businesses. The SBA has several contracting assistance programs, and federal contracting resources available to assist entrepreneurs. This is a great opportunity to get any questions you may have answered and find out about the multiple resources available to help you on your way to small business success. This event will take place online, please register for the log on information. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to lado@sba.gov at least 7 days in advance.
SANTA BARBARA — The Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation, a nonprofit organization providing financial aid to deserving vocal and instrumental students in Santa Barbara County, recently announced the selection of its board for the 2024 season.
This year’s board members are Deborah Bertling, Erin Bonski-Evans, Rosalind Amorteguy Fendon, Ronald D. Fendon, David T. McKee, Kristine Pacheco-Bernt, Barbara H. Burger, Dr. Marjorie Gies, Peter G. Bertling, Neil DiMaggio and Noel Lucky-Ris.
All board members have a long history of service to the Santa Barbara community and the performing arts. Deborah Bertling is a classically trained singer, actor and teacher with more than three decades of experience and has served as president of the PASF board for the last 20 years. She is married to Peter Bertling, an attorney at Bertling Law Group and legal advisor for the board.
I hope this message finds you in good spirits! As we approach the end of yet another year, I am reminded of the transformative experiences and traditions that often shape our childhoods. Do you remember your first visit to a museum? The wonder and curiosity it sparked in you?
Last year, thanks to supporters like you, third graders from Montalvo Elementary School embarked on an enlightening journey exploring our County’s rich Chumash history and culture through the Museum of Ventura County’s School Tours. This unforgettable experience was possible because of donations from contributors like you, which allowed these students from low to moderate-income families to participate in our school tours, entirely free of charge.
The recognition streak continues for the 13th consecutive year! The Oxnard Harbor District was awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada. This award was given to the Oxnard Harbor District, which owns the Port of Hueneme, for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2022.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s 5th Annual Gala raised $367,900 to support YMCA programs. The event, held November 4 at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, drew 340 guests.
The event celebrated local YMCA programs.
–Find My Genius is a five-week, no-cost achievement gap program for low- and moderate-income students who are not reading at grade level. It is also offered year-round in the Moorpark and Simi Valley Unified School Districts.
–Safety Around Water, which teaches children water safety and basic swimming skills at no cost.
With Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday approaching, the 2023 holiday shopping season is about to be underway! Last year an approximate $17.9 billion was spent on independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday according to the 2022 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey commissioned by American Express.
Local small business purchases this holiday season makes a big difference for your neighbors and community. Now is a critical time to encourage friends, family members and local businesses to shop local and join the Small Business Saturday movement!
The California Labor Market Information Division has released its October 2023 report, showing job growth in Ventura County across just about all industry sectors and losses in none.
For the most encouraging news, now at 349,600 total industry jobs, Ventura County is up by more than 10,000 jobs since just prior to the pandemic.
While that’s extraordinarily positive for overall recovery, the major labor market indicators are still a bit mixed, as we had a slight uptick in October in the number of unemployed workers and in the unemployment rate, up from 4.4% in September to 4.5% in October. To be clear, the unemployment rate is up not because we’re failing to create jobs, rather because more workers are coming back to the labor force and because volatility, or churn—workers changing jobs—remains high.
SANTA BARBARA — State Street Commercial Space transitioned on Nov. 17 to Workforce Housing with 14 residential studio apartments in Public-Private Partnership.
The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara’s innovative Workforce Housing Program is designed to address the affordable housing needs of our community’s low to moderate income workforce who are increasingly caught in the gap between skyrocketing rents and ineligibility for other assistance.
The Housing Authority is committed to providing affordable housing to make it possible for more people to live where they work, in Santa Barbara. This approach benefits people who can keep transportation and other costs to a minimum, and have more time to spend with family, education, or career development. And benefits us all by minimizing the impact of commuting on our environment and quality of life in Santa Barbara.
