Congratulations to the
2025 CALED Award Winners

Below are the Award of Excellence and Award of Merit recipients in each of the three categories
(Collaborations in Real Estate & Finance, Innovation in Digital Media, and Programs & Promotions).
Congratulations on your great work!

City of Ontario: The Mule Car Smokehouse

The Mule Car Smokehouse project was a historical preservation and adaptive reuse initiative that brought together multiple City agencies, including Economic Development, Finance, and Real Estate. The City collaborated with private developer Alex Baroian, a specialist in historical preservation, to secure and revitalize the Mule Car parcel. Originally built as the Bank of Italy in the early 1900s, this landmark structure had long stood vacant, falling into disrepair. Through strategic planning and financial assistance from the City, the property was transformed into a dynamic culinary and nightlife destination.

For more information, contact Damien Wafa, City of Ontario, (909) 395-2000.

City of Eastvale: Staybridge Suites Hotel Project

Eastvale’s first hotel, Staybridge Suites, offers 120 rooms (with kitchenettes), a large banquet hall, and the only rooftop bar and restaurant in Western Riverside County. The project began in 2020, with the City of Eastvale collaborating closely with the developer on marketing and supporting funding acquisition. Recently opened, the hotel marks a new chapter for Eastvale, a traditionally family-friendly city. This development is expected to drive tourism and growth, positioning Eastvale as a destination for both families and visitors. The hotel is quickly becoming the go-to spot for local residents and businesses to host events.

For more information, contact Alexander Fung, Economic Development Manager, (951) 703-4415.

San Joaquin County Employment & Economic Development Department: Stockton Takes Action Against Retail Theft (STAART)

Stockton Takes Action Against Retail Theft (STAART) is a program between San Joaquin County’s Employment & Economic Development Department and the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce designed to combat retail theft in Stockton and San Joaquin County. STAART created an app enabling people to report retail-theft incidents by submitting pictures, videos, and incident details, then shared with law enforcement agencies to aid in the investigation and prosecution process. Small businesses can also receive up to $2,000 to install security cameras, proactively helping them fight against retail-theft. STAART is an innovative, tech-driven initiative helping the economic prosperity of our region.

For more information, contact Nicole Snyder, Deputy Director, San Joaquin County Employment & Economic Development Department, (209) 468-3619.

City of Fairfield: Leveraging AI and Digital Media for Economic Growth in Fairfield

The City of Fairfield leverages digital and AI tools to boost business attraction and economic development. Using Placer.ai, we analyze shopping trends and foot traffic to guide data-driven decisions. Our AI-powered chatbot, Archie, enhances user engagement by offering instant assistance on the city’s website. The Digital Asset Management System (DAMS) optimizes photo archive use for marketing, while high-quality digital content, including drone footage, is shared through social media, e-newsletters, and digital postcards. This innovative approach has strengthened Fairfield’s economic development, fostering growth and improving community engagement.

For more information, contact Keisha Mamaril, Economic Development Project Manager, (707) 673-3448.

City of Garden Grove: Foods of Garden Grove

The “Foods of Garden Grove” project leverages technology to celebrate the city’s rich culinary heritage while engaging with local food enthusiasts and adventurous visitors exploring new flavors. The campaign strategically reaches targeted audiences, while AI-driven caption creation enhances storytelling with captivating descriptions. Social media analytics optimize engagement and visibility, and Placer.ai is used to analyze foot traffic. Through visually captivating content, influencer collaborations, and digital storytelling, the project seamlessly integrates technology with cultural narratives to drive traffic to these beloved food spots.

For more information, contact Ursula Luna-Reynosa, Assistant City Manager, (714) 741-5175.

City of Hayward: Hashtag Hayward

Hashtag Hayward is a small business marketing and placemaking program that boosts economic growth through social media and physical improvements. Through grants issued by the City of Hayward, businesses partner with local influencers to generate high-quality digital content, increasing business visibility and customer engagement. Participating businesses generated an average of 200,000 views each. Beyond digital marketing, Hashtag Hayward enhances storefronts through art installations, aesthetic upgrades, and strategic placemaking, transforming businesses into community landmarks. This combination of viral content and physical revitalization has driven foot traffic, increased sales up to 100%, and strengthened Hayward’s identity as a vibrant commercial hub.

For more information, contact Daniel Mao, Economic Development Specialist, 510) 583-5543.

City of Victorville: #MyBizinVV Social Media Campaign

The City of Victorville’s #MyBizinVV social media campaign leverages social media to spotlight local businesses. Each month, the City posts a prompt inviting licensed Victorville businesses to participate by commenting their response. Those who engage are entered into a drawing to win a free professionally produced promotional video. The winning business receives the video to enhance their own marketing, while the City boosts the businesses visibility by featuring them on its social media, website, and digital newsletter. Through this tech-driven initiative, #MyBizinVV promotes local businesses, highlights hidden gems, and strengthens the connection between the City and its business community.

For more information, contact Rebecca Carrillo, Marketing Technician, City of Victorville, (760) 955-5032.

City of Napa: The Napa RiverLine

The Napa RiverLine is a visionary initiative aimed at activating, connecting, and enhancing public access along the Napa River, transforming it into a dynamic community and economic asset. By leveraging past and future flood control investments, this program establishes multi-use trails, enhances waterfront access, and promotes economic growth in key commercial districts. Supported by a consultant team funded by an Economic Development Administration grant, the Napa RiverLine integrates design standards, economic development strategies, and long-term governance planning. A key milestone is the formation of a Napa RiverLine nonprofit led by community leaders to drive fundraising and activation efforts along with the public sector, ensuring long-term sustainability and public engagement.

For more information, contact Neal Harrison, Economic Development Manager, (707) 258-7857.

City of Antioch: Antioch Business Collaborative

The Antioch Business Collaborative (ABC) was designed to support small businesses that were disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more information, contact Bret Sweet, Economic Development Program Manager, City of Antioch, (925) 779-6168.

City of Carlsbad: Carlsbad Life in Action

The Carlsbad Life in Action brand was created to support the City of Carlsbad’s business ecosystem by strengthening the talent pipeline and connecting it with local businesses through innovative tools, practical resources, dynamic partnerships and engaging events. The goal was simple: promote collaboration between businesses and regional workforce for the betterment of the city’s economic development and, thus, greater community. With untapped potential to promote Carlsbad as a dynamic, innovative city with unmatched resources, support and talent, the City of Carlsbad launched a new content engagement strategy to amplify the Carlsbad Life in Action brand in 2024.

For more information, contact Matt Sanford, Economic Development Director, City of Carlsbad, (760) 607-2923.

City of Concord: Creative Concord

Launched in 2022, Creative Concord is an arts & culture experience in the City of Concord created and produced by Local Edition Creative, that has bolstered the city’s social and economic health, connects creatives with community through unique arts programming, has expanded the city’s public art portfolio with works that represent a sense of place, and has broaden access to arts & culture experiences for our community at large.

For more information, contact Melissa Rea, Economic Development Specialist, City of Concord, (925) 671-3018.

City of Dublin: City of Dublin Economic Development Strategy and General Plan Economic Development Element

In 2024, the City of Dublin updated its Economic Development Strategy and General Plan Economic Development Element—originally adopted in 2012/2013—through a comprehensive, inclusive, and forward-thinking process. Over 16 months, staff crafted a dynamic blueprint to drive community growth, support local businesses, and attract emerging industries. The updated strategy lays a solid foundation for sustainable development and expansion, opening doors for emerging industries while reinforcing Dublin’s economic strength, leveraging the City’s highly educated workforce, and enhancing overall quality of life. It is a comprehensive plan and guiding policy that supports both current businesses and those to come.

For more information, contact Rhonda Franklin, Management Analyst, (925) 556-4524.

City of Eastvale: Business First Walks

Eastvale’s Business First Walks is a proactive initiative by the Economic Development team aimed at strengthening relationships with local businesses and fostering a thriving community. Through monthly visits, our team connects directly with business owners, providing goodie bags, informational brochures, and most importantly, a listening ear. These walks offer valuable insights, allowing us to provide tailored support, address concerns, and celebrate successes. By prioritizing face-to-face interactions, Business First Walks reinforces our commitment to a business-friendly environment, ensuring the City of Eastvale remains a place where businesses feel supported, heard, and positioned for growth.

For more information, contact Alexander Fung, Economic Development Manager, (951) 703-4415.

City of Fairfield: The Buck Stops Here – Shop Local

“The Buck Stops Here” campaign encourages the City of Fairfield residents to shop locally, keeping tax dollars within the community. Through videos, window decals, and branded shopping bags, the initiative highlights small businesses and fosters pride in the local economy. Inspired by Small Business Saturday, the campaign showcases Fairfield’s unique businesses and their role in economic growth. Residents are encouraged to explore and invest in their community, recognizing the vital contribution of local tax dollars in enhancing Fairfield’s prosperity and quality of life.

For more information, contact Georg Winkler, Economic Development Manager, (805) 388-5369.

City of Glendale: EVOKE Magazine

EVOKE magazine is a biannual publication of the City of Glendale’s Economic Development Division. First published in 2024, EVOKE delves into Glendale’s vibrant business landscape and arts and culture scene. Each issue offers readers an in-depth exploration of Glendale’s unique attractions, hidden gems, and the stories behind them. This high-end lifestyle magazine serves as a valuable resource for both residents and visitors, highlighting Glendale’s dynamic community and diverse offerings. By showcasing local events, artist profiles and emerging businesses, EVOKE not only serves as an economic development tool but also fosters a deeper connection with Glendale’s rich heritage and contemporary developments.

For more information, contact Juan Gonzalez, Economic Development Coordinator, (818) 937-8322.

City of Hayward: Learn to Earn and Hire Hayward Programs

Learn to Earn and Hire Hayward programs are two interconnected workforce development initiatives with the goal of creating direct pathways to employment for Hayward residents. Through strategic partnerships with Chabot College, CSU East Bay, and community organizations, the programs equip local job seekers with high-demand skills through job training and tuition assistance and then connects them to industries like advanced manufacturing, biotech, and other high-growth sectors employers in need of a skilled workforce. These two programs are ultimately creating and fostering a sustainable, community-first workforce ecosystem in Hayward.

For more information, contact Daniel Mao, Economic Development Specialist, (510) 583-5543.

City of Hemet: Hemet Rises Economic Strategy Plan

The Hemet City Council unanimously approved the City’s new economic strategy, Hemet RISES (Resurgent Investment Strategy for Economic Success). The City’s strategy promotes business retention and expansion, positions Hemet for strategic investments, and ensures a business-friendly development experience.

The Hemet RISES Economic Strategy outlines a three-pronged approach focusing on Place, People, and Process to drive economic prosperity. These initiatives aim to enhance the City’s infrastructure, attract new businesses, and create a vibrant community atmosphere.

For more information, contact Benigno Sandoval, Economic Development Manager, City of Hemet, (951) 669-0265.

City of Indio: Shop Local Rewards Program

In January 2024, the City of Indio launched the Shop Local Rewards Program, to strengthen local businesses and foster community engagement. The rewards program offered participants a 5% cashback on purchases made at participating local businesses, incentivizing shopping within the city. Fully funded by the city, it required no cost to businesses. Users downloaded the app, registered, and explored a directory of local businesses. The first 125 users received a $20 bonus, encouraging early adoption. Rewards were redeemed by uploading receipts or using a registered bank account, ensuring a seamless process. The program boosted local shopping and supported economic growth.

For more information, contact Yanel Ramirez, Management Analyst, City of Indio, (760) 541-4253.

Kern Economic Development Corporation: Where Business Is Boundless TV Series

“Where Business Is Boundless” is a television series produced by the Kern Economic Development Corporation (Kern EDC) that showcases businesses that reflect Kern County’s incredible economic diversity and vitality.

For more information, contact Richard Chapman, President & CEO, Kern Economic Development Corporation, (661) 862-5161.

City of Lake Forest: Buy-One-Get-One (“BOGO”) Community Gift Card Program

The BOGO Program is a strategic initiative that incentivizes local spending by offering a dollar-for-dollar match on gift card purchases redeemable only at participating Lake Forest businesses. Launched as part of the City’s Strategic Economic Investment Program (“SEIP”), the Program was designed to aid businesses in recovering from the pandemic while boosting the economy. Over its phases, it has injected millions into the local economy, benefiting consumers and businesses. By doubling residents’ and visitors’ purchasing power, BOGO encourages support for local businesses while fostering community engagement.

For more information, contact Adrian Grijalva, Economic Development/Housing Manager, (949) 282-5213.

City of Long Beach: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant Program

In 2024, the City of Long Beach, Economic Development Department launched the Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant program (Level Up LB), a program designed to propel small businesses towards success and sustainability. This initiative offered entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to connect with essential business support resources and undergo comprehensive workshops aimed at crafting new business and marketing plans. The program assisted 35 small business owners with support services and workshops, and 25 received $10,000 in grant funding to take their small business to the next level.

For more information, contact Connie Rivera, Commuity Program Specialist, (562) 570-4955.

City of Menifee: The Menifee Business Bridge Program

The Menifee Business Bridge Program is a groundbreaking initiative designed to transform how new businesses transition from attraction to retention. Recognizing that early-stage challenges can make or break a business, this program provides direct, in-person engagement between city officials and business owners at the most critical juncture—immediately after they receive their Certificate of Occupancy (CofO). By eliminating bureaucratic gaps, streamlining processes, and offering proactive support, the Business Bridge Program fosters business success from day one. This forward-thinking approach strengthens the city’s economic ecosystem and ensures sustainable growth, job creation, and a thriving local economy.

For more information, contact Kayla Charters, Economic Development Manager, City of Menifee, (951) 723-3712.

City of Moreno Valley: Moreno Valley’s Veteran Initiative

Sadly, many veterans leave military service only to find themselves unemployed, homeless, or struggling with mental health. The Moreno Valley Veterans Initiative helps veterans transition to civilian life by providing career assistance, mental health resources, and housing solutions. Recognizing challenges such as unemployment, homelessness, and mental health struggles, Moreno Valley has created the program to offer critical support. Through partnerships with local, regional, and federal organizations, the initiative has directly assisted thousands of veterans with job placement, counseling, and outreach. Programs like job fairs and resource events improve veterans’ lives and support local businesses, contributing to the community’s economic growth.

For more information, contact Keith Gemmell, Acting Economic Development & Housing Director, City of Moreno Valley, (951) 413-3448.

City of Newark: The Plan, Prepare, Response, Recover (PPRR) Program – Newark’s Emergency Preparedness for Business Initiative

The Plan, Prepare, Response, and Recovery (PPRR) Program is an emergency preparedness training initiative designed to equip Newark businesses and their employees with life-saving skills and strategies for managing natural and human-caused hazards to ensure business operational continuity. In addition to three core sessions – fire extinguisher use, hands-only CPR and Abdominal Thrust Maneuver, and personal emergency preparedness – the program also includes financial readiness and real-world preparedness scenarios, such as the HayWired Earthquake Scenario Workshop.

For more information, contact Angela Tsui, Deputy Economic Development Director, (510) 578-4895.

City of Oakley: Oakley Entrepreneurial Workshop Program

City of Oakley, in partnership with Los Medanos College, launched a monthly small business workshop series in 2021 to empower local entrepreneurs and small business owners. Designed to provide accessible, practical, and interactive learning experiences for individuals at all stages of their business journey, the program was restructured in 2024 to feature nine comprehensive workshops covering key aspects of entrepreneurship. Open to all registrants, regardless of residency or business background, the workshops ensure broad accessibility and inclusivity while equipping participants with essential business knowledge. This initiative underscores Oakley’s commitment to fostering small business growth and education throughout East Contra Costa County.

For more information, contact Harumi Murata, Economic Development Analyst, (925) 625-7006.

City of Pasadena: Pasadena Economic Development Strategy

The City of Pasadena Economic Development Strategy represents the culmination of extensive research, collaboration, and thoughtful planning by our dedicated team and our business, community, and nonprofit partners. The Plan outlines our vision and goals for Pasadena’s economic future and provides a roadmap to guide our efforts. Six guiding principles serve as the framework for twenty-seven projects the Division, City departments and external partners will pursue over the next five years.

For more information, contact Teresa Garcia, Senior Project Manager, City of Pasadena, (626) 744-4073.

City of Paso Robles: Economic Development Strategy Plan

The Paso Robles Economic Development Strategic Plan (EDSP) is a five-year roadmap designed to foster economic diversity, support local businesses, and enhance community vitality. Guided by City Council policy directives, the plan prioritizes business-friendly initiatives, workforce expansion, and infrastructure investment. It aligns strategic partnerships and best practices to promote sustainable growth while maintaining Paso Robles’ unique character. The EDSP provides a framework for implementation, ensuring measurable objectives, stakeholder collaboration, and continuous adaptation to evolving economic conditions, reinforcing Paso Robles as a thriving destination for businesses, residents, and visitors.

For more information, contact Paul Sloan, Economic Development Manager, City of Paso Robles, (805) 635-5299.

City of Richmond: Mobile Vendor Program

For more information, contact Kyle Lam, Management Analyst, City of Richmond, (510) 620-6802.

City of Richmond: Richmond Main Street Initiative

Taste of Richmond, an annual event, expanded from a one-day food festival to a full week of flavorful experiences from October 7-13, 2024. Presented by the City of Richmond’s Economic Development Commission, it transitioned to Restaurant Week, an event highlighting the city’s diverse culinary scene with specially curated menus, prix-fixe offerings, social media marketing, and exclusive promotions from both new and established restaurants. Food enthusiasts can enjoy guided culinary tours, chef spotlights, cooking demonstrations, tasting sessions, and live entertainment. This expanded format allows the community to explore and savor Richmond’s unique flavors at their own pace while supporting local businesses.

For more information, contact Kyle Lam, Management Analyst, City of Richmond, (510) 620-6802.

City of Riverside: Summit of Excellence

The City gathered over 200 industry experts, community stakeholders, leaders and decision-makers to discuss the City’s current conditions, opportunities, and challenges, and to provide feedback for our economic development framework for the future development of our city.

In collaboration with Accelerator for America, the Summit of Excellence was structured to feature industry expert keynotes from Green Technology, Medical, Aerospace, Arts and Tourism, and General Technology – our vision of areas of excellence. In addition, breakout sessions were employed to perform a SWOT analysis in these areas from the business community themselves, rather than a city-centric view.

For more information, contact Miranda Evans, Deputy Director, Community and Economic Development, (951) 323-3531.

City of Riverside: Riverside Founders Hike

Riverside Founders Hike is a monthly networking event designed to foster collaboration among local entrepreneurs while promoting wellness and community engagement. Held on the 2nd Friday of each month at 7:30 a.m., the hike provides business leaders with a casual yet impactful way to connect. The primary location is Mount Rubidoux Trail, with alternative scenic trails considered. The event is promoted through social media, newsletters, and business networks, ensuring accessibility and consistency. With a focus on networking, collaboration, and outdoor activity, the Riverside Founders Hike strengthens the entrepreneurial ecosystem in a refreshing and innovative way.

For more information, contact Miranda Evans, Deputy Director, Community and Economic Development, (951) 323-3531.

County of Riverside: Thrive Program

The Riverside County Small Business Thrive Program is a comprehensive economic development initiative designed to support startups and existing businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the program provides technical assistance, training, and financial support to help businesses stabilize and grow. In collaboration with AmPac Business Capital and Cal State Fullerton, the Thrive Program offers workshops, one-on-one consulting, financial literacy training, and grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. By equipping businesses with essential resources and funding, the program has made a meaningful impact on Riverside County’s economic recovery and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

For more information, contact Kimberly Wright, Economic Development Manager, County of Riverside Office of Economic Development, (951) 955-7268.

San Joaquin County Employment & Economic Development Department: Shop San Joaquin: Open Rewards

In 2024, we launched Shop San Joaquin after contracting with BluDot Technologies, Inc. to boost economic recovery in San Joaquin County. Through their app, we incentivized residents to shop at qualifying small businesses and earn up to $200 annually in cash-back rewards. The program provided businesses with free, high-impact promotion and seamless backend support, allowing them to focus on serving customers. Through strategic media and community outreach, we maximized visibility and participation. By leveraging technology and local partnerships, the program has strengthened economic resilience, providing valuable data to guide future initiatives and ensuring the continued growth of our region.

For more information, contact Nicole Snyder, Deputy Director, San Joaquin County Employment & Economic Development Department, (209) 468-3619.

City of San Leandro: Small Business Technical Assistance Program

In 2023 the City of San Leandro developed a Small Business Technical Assistance program to help businesses respond to the impacts of COVID, e-commerce, and other market changes. The comprehensive program gives small businesses the tools they need to adapt and thrive in the current economy. The program includes: partnerships to provide technical assistance, one-on-one counseling, comprehensive workshops, improved outreach, and security assistance. The program is unique, in its partnerships with local business service providers and development of a security assistance program. The focus on reaching and assisting diverse businesses also reflects the community’s commitment to inclusion and collaboration.

For more information, contact Lars Halle, Economic Development Specialist, (510) 577-3311.

City of Santa Ana: Travel Santa Ana

The City of Santa Ana’s Economic Development Division is driving regional prosperity through strategic advertising, marketing, and promotional campaigns. A standout initiative, Travel Santa Ana, launched in 2021 and booming in 2024, successfully positioned the city as a premier travel destination. Using data-driven marketing, digital outreach, and public relations, the campaign attracted visitors, particularly from Mexico, boosting hotel bookings, business revenues, and tax contributions. In partnership with Orange 142, its cost-effective strategy maximized reach while minimizing costs. By diversifying the local economy and expanding the tax base, Travel Santa Ana exemplifies innovative economic development and regional influence.

For more information, contact Julie Castro, Economic Developent Specialist III, (714) 647-5477.

Solano Economic Development Corporation: Solano Biz-Grow Revolving Loan Program

The Solano Biz-Grow Revolving Loan Fund Program offers loans between $25,000 and $125,000 at a fixed interest rate of 6% with a 5-year term to small businesses and nonprofits in Solano County affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible businesses must have been operating before December 31, 2021, meet specific COVID-19 impact criteria, have a minimum 630 credit score, and be located in Solano County. Funded by $4 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, the loans are provided through a first of its kind partnership between First Northern Bank, Travis Credit Union, and Valley Strong Credit Union.

For more information, contact Chris Rico, President & CEO, Solano EDC, (707) 864-1855.

City of Temecula: Entrepreneurial Research Center (ERC)

The Entrepreneurial Resource Center (ERC) at the Temecula Valley Entrepreneur’s Exchange (TVE2) is a dynamic hub supporting startups and small businesses through mentorship, networking, and strategic resources. Entrepreneurs gain access to expert guidance, business development programs, workshops, funding opportunities, and one-on-one coaching. The ERC fosters a thriving ecosystem where businesses can launch, scale, and succeed. Partnering with programs like the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center and Inland Empire Women’s Business Center, the ERC offers comprehensive counseling and training at no cost. Additional services include, but are not limited to, licensing, permitting, access to capital, and workforce development.

For more information, contact Mary Cervantes, Management Analyst, City of Temecula, (951) 506-5187.

City of Victorville: Old Town Commercial Façade Improvement Program

In an effort to preserve the historic Route 66 area and generate economic growth, the City of Victorville created the Old Town Commercial Façade Improvement Program to assist qualified commercial Property Owners and Business Owners in enhancing the appearance of their storefronts in Old Town Victorville, along Victorville’s 7th Street and D Street commercial corridors.

The Program provides funding in the form of a forgivable, 2-year deferred, no interest loan in the amount of $50,000 to $100,000 to make eligible facade improvements, correct certain code violations and/or make ADA improvements to their commercial buildings located in the Old Town area.

For more information, contact Rebecca Carrillo, Marketing Technician, City of Victorville, (760) 955-5032.

City of Walnut Creek & Diablo Regional Arts Association: Business Leaders for the Arts

The Business Leaders for the Arts Cocktail Party, designed, developed and delivered by Diablo Regional Arts Association (DRAA), successfully revitalized its business engagement efforts shepherded through engaging artistic curiosities curated by the arts community merging them with corporate sponsorships and local business leaders. Lesher Center for the Arts, a regional draw, acted as the venue, leveraging the partnership with the City’s Arts + Rec Department and major sponsors as well as a major local hospital. The event highlighted the arts strong correlation to vitality in the community, businesses and sponsorship.

For more information, contact Kesava Washington, Economic Development Specialist, City of Walnut Creek, (925) 943-5812.

City of West Covina: West Covina Chamber

The West Covina Chamber, launched in May 2024 during the City’s Small Business Week, is a city-backed initiative designed to support local businesses. The program provides resources such as networking events, business development workshops, and access to municipal services, helping businesses grow and thrive. By fostering collaboration between local businesses and city leadership, the Chamber promotes economic growth and strengthens the community. This ongoing program enhances business opportunities, offers advocacy, and ensures businesses have the tools and support they need for long-term success, making it a vital resource for West Covina’s economy.

For more information, contact Paulina Morales, City Manager, (626) 939-8417.

Congratulations to all the 2025 Award Winners!