| Small
business is big business in Contra Costa County. The county
has one of the strongest and most diverse small-business
communities in the state. A recent study conducted by
the Contra Costa Economic Partnership and the Contra Costa
Newspapers indicated that the county’s economy is
dominated by small businesses; 82% of the county’s
businesses have fewer than 100 employees and 72% have
fewer than 10 employees. |
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The
SBDC helps small businesses grow, with the goal of creating
quality jobs. Services include practical training for
start-up and existing business owners, at no or low
cost, and professional consulting, at no charge, for
businesses with 0-20 employees.
Professional
Business Consulting
and Training
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Professional Consulting
Owners of existing businesses can meet with a team of
professional and highly experienced consultants. The consultants
offer expertise in business planning, financial analysis
and management, general management, human resources, marketing
and sales, loan application assistance and related management
disciplines. |
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Business and Management Training |
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Individuals interested in starting a new business
can attend the highly regarded entrepreneurial training
class, “New Venture Training.” This intensive
12-week |
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training program is offered at no cost to qualifying
residents and at a modest cost to others. Business-management
train-ing focuses on the development of a sound
business plan. The training has been called a “mini
MBA” with practical applications. A one-day
business start-up workshop and a variety of other
short-term training programs on specific business
subjects are offered throughout the year. |
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“New Economy” Information
In
addition to providing general referrals and resources
to individuals, the center offers clients information
and research to help enhance business opportunities
in today’s dynamic and fast-paced economy.
The SBDC is sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration,
California Trade and Commerce, the Workforce Development
Board and other local cities and organizations.
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