Don’t go it alone. Build, grow, and thrive with support from California’s statewide network of trusted small business organizations.
The SCALE Program is strengthening California’s small business ecosystem by connecting entrepreneurs and small business owners to coaching, capital, and community — so every business has the opportunity to succeed.
A Stronger Ecosystem for Every Entrepreneur
Small Business Success Starts with Connection
California is investing in a more inclusive and accessible small business ecosystem that helps entrepreneurs turn ideas into reality, launch new ventures, grow existing businesses, and drive innovation.
Through a statewide network of more than 100 nonprofit organizations serving every county in California, SCALE expands equitable access to the resources small businesses need most.
Our network includes:
- Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)
- Women’s Business Centers
- Nonprofit business support organizations
- Ethnic and local chambers of commerce
- Universities and innovation hubs
- Accelerators and entrepreneurial support organizations
No matter your industry, location, or stage of growth, support is within reach.
The Cs of Small Business Success
A thriving business ecosystem is powered by five essential elements:
Coaching
Expert guidance to help entrepreneurs navigate challenges and make informed decisions.
Capital
Access to funding opportunities and financial resources that fuel growth.
Connection
Relationships with mentors, peers, partners, and networks that open doors.
Climate
A supportive environment where businesses can launch, operate, and expand.
Culture
A community that celebrates entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic opportunity.
When entrepreneurs receive training and support, businesses are better positioned for long-term success—creating jobs, generating economic growth, and strengthening communities across California.
No Wrong Door
Wherever You Are in Your Journey, There’s a Path Forward!
Whether you’re:
- Exploring a new business idea
- Launching a startup
- Growing an established business
- Pursuing innovation and expansion
— or looking for:
- Business advising
- Training and workshops
- Capital and funding opportunities
- Technical assistance
- Networking and connections
California’s small business support network provides streamlined pathways to the services you need.
No wrong door. No matter where you start, we’ll help connect you to the right resources.
Supporting Small Strengthens Us All
Investing in Businesses. Empowering Communities.
Small businesses are the backbone of California’s economy. By expanding access to opportunity and supporting entrepreneurs across all regions of the state, we help create a stronger, more resilient future for everyone.
California believes that inclusive economic mobility leads to:
- Stronger local economies
- Greater innovation and entrepreneurship
- Increased job creation
- More vibrant communities
- Expanded opportunities for future generations
When small businesses succeed, California succeeds.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Tell Us About Your Business — We’ll Help You Find the Right Resources
Navigating available business services and funding opportunities can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Complete our intake form and we’ll connect you with trusted organizations and resources that match your business goals, stage of growth, and specific needs.
Whether you’re developing an idea, launching a startup, expanding your business, or seeking access to capital, our statewide network is here to help.
No wrong door. One intake form. Personalized connections to the support you need.
Start Your Journey Today
Funding for this $25.3 million Program comes from the U.S. Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), which was created by the U.S. Congress in 2010 and reauthorized through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Additionally, it will support the deployment of $1.1 billion in federal funding separately approved for capital support programs from the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (IBank) and the California Pollution Control Financing Authority. Lenders across the state are expected to leverage the $1.1 billion in funding for existing capital support programs into $18 billion in new loans for small businesses.
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by a subaward made under federal award number SSBCI-21031-0018 awarded to the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury