MADE
A hands-on seven-week hybrid program aimed at assisting small product-based businesses and bringing them into the physical marketplace.
*Thursdays I August 27 – October 8, 2026 I 2 – 4 p.m.
*See the details below for the full schedule as dates, times, and locations vary.
In Collaboration with Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, the City of Costa Mesa, the Maker Faire Orange County, and the OCIE SBDC, MADE is an innovative hybrid program designed to support start-up, product-based businesses in turning their ideas into viable, market-ready businesses. Specifically tailored for entrepreneurs looking to enter physical marketplaces and pop-up retail environments, MADE provides the foundational training and hands-on guidance needed to validate your concept and prepare for in-person selling opportunities.
Over the course of seven dynamic weeks, participants will dive into essential topics such as business planning, product development, branding, marketing, financing, and customer engagement—all geared toward equipping them to confidently launch and operate in a physical marketplace.
What sets MADE apart is its strong emphasis on real-world application. Each session is strategically crafted to accelerate your business journey and get you retail-ready in just a few short weeks. Participants will benefit from hybrid training sessions, expert instruction, and one-on-one consulting support—all aimed at helping you refine your business model and prepare for market entry.
The program culminates in a celebratory Graduation & Showcase Event, where each participant will have the opportunity to feature their products in a curated pop-up setting. This is a special moment to invite friends, family, and community supporters to experience your business firsthand. Graduates will be recognized, celebrated, and receive exclusive perks as they officially launch their brands into the marketplace.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your concept to the next level, MADE is the launchpad you’ve been waiting for.
FOR FOOD VENDORS PLEASE READ: Please note that onsite food preparation, including hot or cold food with service to customers and/or sampling of food, will NOT be allowed through this program.
SPACE IS LIMITED!
Schedule Preview: *Thursdays I August 27 – October 8, 2026
*Please note that this is a hyrbird program (both online and in person). All training session will be held on Thursdays, however, please note that the two in-person sessions are held on different times & dates.
Session 1: Thursday, August 27, 2026 I 2 – 4 p.m. (Zoom)
Session 2: Thursday, September 3, 2026 I 2 – 4 p.m. (Zoom)
Session 3: Saturday, September 12, 2026 I 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (In-Person)
- In-Person Field Trip to the Fairground Maker’s Fair (Costa Mesa, CA)
Session 4: Thursday, September 17, 2026 I 2 – 4 p.m. (Zoom)
Session 5: Thursday, September 24, 2026 I 2 – 4 p.m. (Zoom)
Session 6: Thursday, October 1, 2026 I 2 – 4 p.m. (Zoom)
Session 7: Thursday, October 8, 2026 I *4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (In-Person)
*Time includes setup & teardown.
- In-Person Graduation at the Norma Hertzog Community Center (Costa Mesa, CA)
Attendance is mandatory at ALL sessions. Only attendees who join the meetings live will gain access to the course recording and material afterward.
