Photo courtesy of the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC).
WDBVC and America’s Job Center of California cover up to 100% of intern wages and 50% of onboarding costs for employers with under five staff members.
VENTURA COUNTY — The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) announced (on Sept. 25) the launch of a high-impact suite of workforce programs designed specifically to help local microenterprises scale without financial strain. Administered locally through America’s Job Center of California (AJCC), the initiative provides fully funded work experiences, hiring reimbursements, and subsidized training to sole proprietors, independent operators, and family-owned firms with fewer than five employees.
Designed to counter rising operational costs, these resources absorb the financial risks of onboarding and staff development for small employers that operate without dedicated HR departments or surplus working capital.
Key programs available immediately include:
- Funded Work Experience (Internships): Employers can host an intern or temporary worker for daily operations, project support, or digital marketing, with the program covering 100% of participant wages throughout the placement.
- On-the-Job Training (OJT) Subsidies: For companies ready to hire permanently, the AJCC reimburses the employer up to 50% of a new employee’s wages during their initial training period, directly offsetting the onboarding curve.
- Incumbent Worker Training: Microbusinesses looking to upskill current staff on specialized machinery, proprietary software, or critical industry certifications can secure grant funding to cover approved third-party instruction costs.
“Microbusinesses are the true economic backbone of our commercial corridors, from the Westside of Ventura to South Oxnard and the Santa Clara River Valley,” said Cynthia Avila, Business Solutions Manager at WDBVC. “Yet the time and payroll commitment required to train an assistant or onboard an intern can feel unattainable for a solo entrepreneur. These programs eliminate that friction by absorbing the direct wage and training expenses. Our team handles the heavy administrative lifting so owners can focus on building their businesses sustainably.”
To qualify, businesses must maintain a physical or remote operation based within Ventura County and satisfy standard local licensing and workplace safety requirements. WDBVC Business Solutions Specialists manage the candidate screening and administrative compliance, matching qualified local job seekers and students directly to employer needs across retail, hospitality, light manufacturing, professional services, and technical trades.
Local microbusiness owners, independent contractors, and sole proprietors can apply or learn more about funding availability by contacting the WDBVC Business Solutions team at (805) 648-WORK, emailing WDBVC@venturacounty.gov or visiting tinyurl.com/MicroStartup
About the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County
The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) administers federal and state workforce investments that support America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) facilities and specialized employment programs throughout the region. In partnership with local business, education, and civic leaders, the Board strengthens the regional economy by facilitating employer-driven training, business retention services, and equitable career pathways that keep Ventura County competitive.