In this Must Know…
- Take Action: Time for Federal Policy Comments
- Legislative Wins for California’s Small Businesses
- Join Microlending Essentials (MILES) on October 5-9, 2026.
- SCALE Road Tour Stops in Willits
- From September 3–17, take advantage of our End of Summer Special and receive $100 off your ticket for our 2026 Conference on November 16-18!
- CAMEO in the News: Carolina Martinez and Rudy Espinoza, CEOs of CAMEO Network and Inclusive Action for the City, wrote an op-ed for The Hill on why our organizations are suing the administration to protect the CDFI Fund.
- This week’s Goodie Highlight is the NOFA for the Cal IIP 2027 award cycle for California CDFIs. Join the Application Workshop on September 9, 2026 at 11:00am PT.
Time for Federal Policy Comments
| Take Action! Federal agencies are seeking public input on proposed changes that could affect community reinvestment efforts and small business opportunities. The OCC and FDIC proposed changes to the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) that would reduce banks’ obligations to support low- and moderate-income communities while broadening the types of activities that qualify for CRA credit. Submit your comment to the Federal Register by October 13. |
The SBA has proposed changes to small business size standards that could reshape federal contracting. The rule would expand eligibility thresholds and remove subcontracting requirements, potentially allowing larger firms to compete for opportunities intended for small businesses. Submit your comment to the Federal Register by September 21.
Legislative Wins for California’s Small Businesses
The 2026 California Legislative Session has wrapped up, sending legislation to the Governor’s Office for signature. Among the bills awaiting action are measures that would greatly benefit California’s small business owners:
- AB 2116 — will require companies and brokers selling merchant cash advances (MCAs) to get a license under the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI).
- FY 2026-27 Budget — will include over $6.4 Million in General Fund appropriations for the California Investment and Innovation Program
(Cal IIP). - SB 700 — will allow the State Treasurer to use existing revenues generated through Capital Programs & Climate Financing Authority (CPCFA) programs for Cal IIP.
Thanks to everyone who signed letters and voiced their support!
MILES Registration Is Open
Join Microlending Essentials (MILES), CAMEO Network’s signature intensive training on effective microloan underwriting, on October 5-9, 2026. This five-day virtual course equips microlenders, technical assistance providers, and board members with practical, hands-on skills in cash flow analysis, credit evaluation, credit memo development, and mission-aligned lending. Participants will gain tools to strengthen lending programs, improve client readiness, and drive greater impact.
SCALE Road Tour Stops in Willits
Last month, the SCALE Small Business Spotlight Road Tour stopped in Willits, California, to hear the story of Anton O’Hanlon, owner of Artefex, a manufacturer of aluminum composite art panels. After years of doing everything himself, Anton turned to West Business Development Center, a SCALE partner, for mentorship and guidance. With their support, he strengthened his leadership and strategy, achieving more in two years than in the previous ten.
2026 Conference: Collective Power in Action
From September 3–17, take advantage of our End of Summer Special and receive an additional $100 off your Conference registration! Be sure to select the End of Summer Special ticket at checkout to receive the discount. Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer!
The Goodies
Industry News
- Congress passed a Continuing Resolution (CR) that funds the federal government at the FY26 rate through December 11. President Trump is expected to sign it.
- First Hawaiian Bank announced its intention to acquire Tri Counties Bank, which has a widespread presence in Northern California.
For Your Clients
- Workplaces Respond has launched a new Small Business Resource Hub with practical, tailored tools to help small business owners create safer, more supportive workplaces.
- Small Business for America’s Future is hosting Tariff Tea 3.0 on September 9, 2026 at 1:00pm PT / 4:00pm ET.
Free Webinars
- Join NCRC on September 10, 2026 at 11:00am PT / 2:00pm ET for “Is Your Organization Ready? Building Capacity and Increasing Compliance.”
- Don’t miss CalNonprofits’ “Ask a Nonprofit Lawyer” on September 14, 2026 at 11:00am PT.
Other Goodies
- Funding Opportunity: The CPCFA released the NOFA for the Cal IIP 2027 award cycle. Join the Application Workshop on September 9, 2026 at 11:00am PT.
- Jobs: Inclusive Action, the NorCal SBDC, and ACD announced new jobs recently. See who else is hiring!