Our Impact
Annually, CAMEO’s 220+ members serve about 34,000 very small businesses with training, business and credit assistance, and loans. These firms — largely startups with less than 5 employees — support or create 51,000 new jobs in California.
Small businesses have a multiplier effect on their local economies 2 times that of national chains
Small businesses create a total of $1.5 billion in economic activity
Over 70% of clients served are low- to moderate-income underserved microbusinessesLearn more about us or view recent news and events.
Why Our Work Matters
Cosimo Allegretta, FoodJets
FoodJets is a local franchise web and app-based platform that allows you to order food from local restaurants. You can track your delivery driver and enjoy your delicious piping hot food without delays from other orders. FoodJets delivers one order at a time.
Patricia Van Der Beek, CreArt Preschool
Originally from Brazil, Patricia Van Der Beek came to the US to make her childhood dream of starting a preschool a reality. She worked three jobs to put herself through a Master's program in early childhood education. Then she won a scholarship that allowed her to complete a business management certificate at UC Berkeley. In 2015, with the help of the Marin SBDC, she was able to open CreArt Preschool.
Michelle Constant, CONSTANT Associates
Michelle Constant founded CONSTANT Associates in 2004 as a disaster and crisis management consulting firm. Their first contract involved the delivery of biological terrorism exercises for the government. But to grow, the firm needed expert help.
Bill McRae, On Stage Music Academy
A classically trained musician from an early age, Bill McRae spent many years performing and composing. He played keyboards, guitar and bass. After college, he became a music business executive, then a classroom teacher. In 2014, Bill decided he wanted to open a music school. He wanted to share his love of music with students of all ages.
Mariatu Browne, Tu Organics Salon & Spa
Mariatu “Tu” Browne discovered her passion for hair at the early age of 9. She used to braid hair in her home country of Sierra Leone. Fast forward to California in 2006, where a generous investment from a friend helped her open her first salon, Tu’s Studio Hair Design. A series of personal hardships, coupled with the onset of an economic downturn, forced her to close her doors.Are You An Entrepreneur or Micro Business Owner Looking for Support?
Apply for a loan through one of our member organizations.
Explore a compilation of resources for micro business owners.
Upcoming CAMEO Events
View our full calendar of micro business events in California ›
Micro Business News
Highlights from our MicroBiz blog, Must Know from CAMEO, and op-eds on the micro business field.
November 24, 2020
Small Business Saturday | Holiday Gift Guide 2020
November 18, 2020