The OCIE SBDC Small Business Survey was conducted in late 2025 to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by small businesses across Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties.
For Jessica Gutierrez, owner of Stamp & Ship LLC, support from the SBDC helped transform her vision of a community-centered shipping business into a venture ready to open its doors.
As 2024 concludes, the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (OCIE SBDC) Network proudly reflects on a year of impactful service and significant achievements. Serving the counties of Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino, the OCIE SBDC provided essential no-cost consulting and training to 14,919 local entrepreneurs.
Caria Atelier’s Grand Opening brings Mediterranean elegance, slow fashion, and sustainable design to Newport Beach.
When Laura Willard launched Kailyn Beauty Luxe Mobile Salon, she wasn’t just starting a business, she was creating a lifestyle that allowed her to balance entrepreneurship with motherhood. With two young daughters at home, Laura wanted a career that offered creative fulfillment while still giving her the flexibility to be present for her family.
SBDC Client Chocolate Bash won the SBA’s Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year award, recognizing their efforts and perseverance.
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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.
