Get expert support to grow your business, streamline production, and reach global markets.
Manufacturing businesses fuel innovation, create quality jobs, and strengthen our local economy. Whether you’re making food, textiles, components, or consumer products, the SBDC is here to help you succeed at every stage — from setup and certifications to process improvement and international sales.
No matter your manufacturing goals, the SBDC has specialized consultants and a variety of resources ready to support your needs.
The SBDC’s Center for Contracting can help your business compete for local, state, and federal contracts — including those set aside for small businesses. Our consultants will guide you through the certification process, help you find relevant bid opportunities, and guide you through preparing a strong proposal. Whether you’re just getting started or trying to scale your existing government work, our team can walk you through every step of the procurement process.
Manufacturing businesses can especially benefit from government purchasing programs that prioritize local production — don’t miss out on these opportunities!
Manufacturers ready to grow beyond the U.S. market can rely on the SBDC’s Global Trade Center for expert support. Our team can help you assess your export readiness, identify international buyers, navigate compliance requirements, and develop a global strategy that aligns with your business goals.
Whether you’re looking to ship your first product overseas or expand into new countries, we’ll help you understand logistics, tariffs, labeling, and documentation so you can enter international markets with confidence.
Getting your manufacturing business off the ground—or scaling it—often requires access to the right kind of funding. The SBDC’s Finance Center specializes in helping small businesses secure capital through loans, grants, and investor connections. We’ll help you refine your financials, prepare a strong loan package, and connect you with lenders that understand manufacturing.
Whether you’re investing in new equipment, expanding your production space, or building inventory, we’ll work with you to find the most strategic path forward. Manufacturing is capital-intensive—we’ll help you get the financial support you need to thrive.
From local production to global distribution, the SBDC is your dedicated partner in growth. Whether you’re looking to improve operations, access funding, or explore new markets, our expert team is here to support your next move.
Schedule your no-cost one-on-one consultation today.
Mike Daniel is the network director of the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC Network, which assists aspiring entrepreneurs and current business owners throughout Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Mike was formerly the director of the SBDC office at Long Beach City College. As business owner and entrepreneur himself, he started his career as the owner of a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory location in Manhattan Beach and went on to open a second location in Long Beach in 2001. In 2007, Mike sold the Manhattan Beach store for an above-market offer then invested in several additional locations as a minority shareholder. Mike further expanded his candy empire with venture located in Shoreline Village in Long Beach called Sugar Daddies Sweet Shoppe, based on fill-it yourself candy options.
Mike has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from California State University, Fullerton.
