Why Our Services Are Free

Our mission is to empower small businesses with high-quality consulting and resources, but without the price tag. Here’s how and why we do it.

Who We Are

The Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center Network (OCIE SBDC) is part of a nationwide network of Small Business Development Centers. Our consultants, many of whom are small business owners themselves, are experienced professionals who provide expert support in business planning, marketing, finance, and more.

We believe that every entrepreneur deserves access to quality business support, regardless of income or background. By removing financial barriers, we ensure that all business owners have a fair shot at success.

How Our Services Are Funded

We are funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), California Governor’s Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), and local partners. This funding allows us to offer one-on-one consulting, workshops, and programs at no cost to you. Our goal is to help your business start, grow, and thrive. No hidden fees, no catch.

Why Choose Us

Getting funding for your business is about more than filling out forms; it’s about having the right guidance and support at your side. At the OCIE SBDC, we offer personalized, no-cost consulting to help you confidently navigate your funding journey. Here’s how we support you:

Support from Start to Finish — Whether you’re launching a new business or expanding an existing one, we’ll help you with every step: preparing financials, refining your business plan, strengthening your pitch, and more.

A Team That Reflects Your Community — Many of our consultants are small business owners themselves, and we offer our services in several different languages. We meet you where you are, with respect, empathy, and a focus on what makes your business unique.

A Track Record You Can Trust — Our clients have secured millions in funding with our help. We know the process, we know the lenders, and most importantly—we know how to set you up for success.

2024 Outcomes

In 2024, the OCIE SBDC supported 14,900+ entrepreneurs, supported the creation of 6,737 jobs and 676 new businesses, and enabling $121M+ in increased sales. We are proud of the transformative growth we achieved together in 2024 and are well on our way to keeping the momentum going this year.

Check out some of our key outcomes:

Success Stories

We help entrepreneurs with a wide range of business needs and backgrounds.

Read more about our recent successes:

Cultivating Care Across Riverside

More than daycare, WeKare's expanded services benefit Riverside families with three thriving centers that offer more services and create meaningful community impact.

Double Scoop of Success

Gelatissimo's expansion of its second location brings jobs, unique flavors of award-winning gelato, and inspiration to Irvine.

Confidence, Culture, and Cuts That Inspire

Vu Le’s Voodoo Barbershop is more than a place for haircuts — it’s a movement rooted in personal empowerment, style, and authentic connection.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, our team is here to help you find the right funding — and guide you through the process, every step of the way. Let’s get you funded.

Schedule your no-cost one-on-one consultation today.