Impact
Small Business Assistance Tool
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We Have Been Connecting Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses to No-Cost and Low-Cost Resources Since 2011
Our Purpose
At Microenterprise Collaborative of Inland Southern California, our purpose is to create and grow sustainable small businesses and job development by supporting micro-business development agencies. We are deeply committed to making a positive and lasting impact on the low-moderate income individuals, people of color, women, veterans, and immigrants we serve, and we work tirelessly to create and sustain businesses and jobs through micro-business development. Our dedication to this mission drives every decision and fuels our passion for creating a better world.
2024 at a Glance
Dear Friends, Valued Partners and Supporters,
Reflecting on the remarkable journey of 2024, I’m proud to share the transformative impact of the Microenterprise Collaborative of Inland Southern California. Our purpose is to foster sustainable small businesses and job creation through micro-business development continues to make an impactful difference in our community.
Key Achievements in 2024
- Enhanced Financial Literacy: We launched bi-monthly webinars integrating financial literacy, credit-building education, and loan products to help small businesses improve financial stability and access affordable capital.
- Expanded Microlender Network: Our network grew significantly, increasing access to critical funding for startups and small businesses as part of the CalOSBA SCALE: Access to Capital outreach campaign.
- Optimized Business Assistance Tool: Enhancements provided seamless access to valuable resources across the region.
Community Impact
- Economic Growth: We advanced entrepreneurial activity with a strong focus on supporting historically marginalized communities.
- Job Creation: Thousands of new jobs were created, bolstering the Inland Empire’s reputation as a small business hub.
Recognition and Awards
- CAMEO Entrepreneur Ecosystem Winner: We received the prestigious Connector Award for linking entrepreneurs to essential networks and resources.
- Executive Director Honored: Our Executive Director was named a Woman of Achievement for the Inland Empire for her efforts to empower underserved entrepreneurs.
Looking Ahead to 2025
We are excited to expand into Los Angeles and Orange counties by:
- Building partnerships with local organizations to support entrepreneurs.
- Offering tailored advising and financial resources.
- Hosting events and workshops to foster entrepreneurship and economic development.
Your continued support fuels these achievements. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for small businesses in Southern California.
PAMELA DEANS
Executive Director
Our Approach
Building a Stronger Small Business Ecosystem Through Strategic Connections
At the Microenterprise Collaborative, we believe that successful small businesses are built on strong connections and comprehensive support. Our three-pillar approach focuses on creating meaningful linkages between entrepreneurs and the resources they need, while advocating for policies that create a more inclusive business environment.
Connector Role
We bridge entrepreneurs to resources and funding opportunities and facilitate partnerships with stakeholders
Resource Provider
No-cost/low-cost training and counseling, microloan access, and technical assistance programs
Foster Economic Development
We champion for small businesses interests at local, regional, and national levels and support policies and initiatives
Our History Beginning in 2011
A Legacy of Impact
Since its beginning in 2011, Microenterprise Collaborative of Inland Southern California has been dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities across San Bernardino, Riverside, and parts of Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
Early Years
Microenterprise Collaborative of Inland Southern California was founded by a group of visionary individuals and community leaders who shared a common passion for small business development. They recognized challenges that prevented small businesses and micro-businesses from starting or thriving in the region, such as lack of access to financing and resources.
Growth
Over the past decade, we have expanded our reach and impact. Our network has grown to include over 700 partners providing small business lending, advising, and resources. Each year, our programs help thousands of entrepreneurs gain the skills, financing, and support needed to start and grow businesses.
MECISC Direct Impact Stats
Our Network Grew in 2024!
As we enter 2025, the Microenterprise Collaborative of Inland Southern California remains committed to elevating entrepreneurship through collaboration with over 700 partners providing small business lending, advising, and resources. By delivering programs focused on underserved groups across Riverside and San Bernardino counties, we seek to nurture talent and ignite prosperous, sustainable enterprises.
- Access to over $40 MILLION in grants and $112 MILLION in small business loans
- Supported the creation or retention of 20,000+ jobs for small businesses across the Inland Empire
- Hosted events for nonprofit organizations supporting entrepreneurs in 52 cities across the Inland Empire
- Convened 40+ financial institutions to discuss small business trends
- 65% of small business owners felt prepared to prevent cyberattacks in 2024, up 17 percentage points from 2022
- Small businesses have contributed over 70% of net new jobs since 2019, and this trend has continued into 2024, supporting local economies and employment growth
- Re-granted $150K to partner organizations providing small business services
- Over 54,000 clicks to our website through digital outreach
- Strengthened collaboration with more than 700 partners providing lending, advising, and resources to small businesses in Riverside and San Bernardino counties
- $150K
Regranted to partner organizations
- 20K+
Jobs created or supported
- $112M+
Capital accessed by small businesses
- 700+
Partners in collaboration
2024 Online Reach
- More than 35,000 active users were on our website in 2024. Almost 3,000 people use our website each month looking for resources to start and grow their business.
- Our BLOG features success stories, how-to articles, and actionable advice, helping thousands of local entrepreneurs navigate challenges and access the support they need to thrive.
- Our Spanish-language outreach continues to expand, making vital business support available to even more diverse communities.
Inland Empire Economic Growth
The Inland Empire offers compelling advantages for businesses seeking to relocate or expand.
The Inland Empire region is now one of the nation’s largest and fastest growing industrial markets with top emerging hubs for dynamic startups and small businesses across industries like e-commerce, healthcare, financial services, tech, and beyond.
- Riverside County’s population is over 2.5 million and continues to grow, making it the 4th largest county in California.
- The region’s economy is driven by healthcare, logistics, technology, manufacturing, retail, and construction. These sectors are responsible for significant job creation and economic output.
- San Bernardino’s tech and small business ecosystem is booming, with a projected 25% increase in startups by 2024. This growth is fueled by the county’s strategic location, affordability, and strong government and institutional support, such as incubator programs and funding initiatives.
- The Inland Empire manufacturing sector is back in growth mode. The overall IE economy is also in growth mode.
- In 2024, the Inland Empire’s economy continued to grow, with local small businesses seeing more activity and higher sales. For three months in a row, business surveys showed strong results, indicating that more small businesses are opening, expanding, and thriving in the region.
Our Partner Highlights
Measuring Success Through Collaboration
Here's what we achieved together in 2024:
- 37,000+
Counseling hours
- 580
Training events
- 676
New businesses launched
- 6,737
Jobs created
- $121.7M+
in increased sales
- $112M+
in captial accessed
“The SBDC helped open my mind to what was really possible,” Simon reflected. “Their guidance on lease agreements, loan options and community networking gave me the confidence to turn my vision into reality.” – Simon Drew, The Sanctuary Studio-SBDC Client
Strategic Partnerships
Collaborating for Change with Cameo
Our participation in CAMEO’s targeted cohorts allows us to better serve our small business community through specialized programs and initiatives.
- Part of CalOSBA’s statewide initiative
- Helping entrepreneurs overcome barriers to accessing capital
- Suppoirting diverse business owners in securing funding for growth
- Focused on environmental sustainability for small businesses
- Provided resources for climate-friendly business practices
Climate for Small Business
- Working to create equitable opportunities
- Supportiung historically marginalized entrepreneurs
- building more inclusive busines ecosystems
California Coalition For Racial Justice
- Supporting Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations in San Bernardino
- Advocating for home-based food entrepreneurs
- Creating pathways for food business development
Notable Achievements and Recognitions
2024 Cameo Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Connector Award
Proud recipient and recognized for commitment to fostering connections and supporting small businesses in Southern California by CAMEO.
2025 Inland Empire Community Fund (IECF) Woman of Achievement Nominee
The award honors exceptional women from Riverside or San Bernardino Counties who have made significatn and lasting contributions to the region through leadership, community service, and dedication to improving the lives of others.
2025 Senator Reyes Woman of Distinction
The 2025 Woman of Distinction Award, presented by State Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes of California's 29th Senate District, honors women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, service, and commitment to their communities in the Inland Empire. The award recognizes women who inspire others through their dedication in fields such as education, public service, business, healthcare, and community advocacy.
Microenterprise Collaborative is Listed on Guidestar
We have received the 2025 Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid for the fourth year!
Our Top Goals for 2025
As we move into 2025 and beyond, we are energized by the opportunities ahead.
Our goals include:
- Further expansion into nearby Los Angeles and Orange County markets
- Increasing resources and access to capital for entrepreneurs
- Growing our network of partners to provide enhanced support for small businesses
We invite you to join us on this journey as we continue striving to uplift entrepreneurs and communities through the power of small business.
To get involved, contact us by submitting a request >>
