Springboard program aids small businesses

Sonoma Valley Springboard is a new program provided by the City of Sonoma to help Valley residents to start or grow small businesses.

An information session for existing business owners and potential entrepreneurs will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, April 28, at La Luz Center, 17560 Greger St.

The program will provide comprehensive technical assistance to both new and existing business owners, including workshops and one-on-one business advisory services.  Springboard services are provided at locations in Sonoma Valley, in English and Spanish, and there is no charge to participate.

The Springboard program is being launched through the Sonoma Valley Economic Development Partnership, a joint program of the City and the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce, with assistance from the Napa/Sonoma Small Business Development Center.

Information will be provided in both English and Spanish, and childcare will be available on-site.

To qualify for Springboard services, the business must be a microenterprise (five or fewer employees, including the owner) and the owner’s family income must fall within federally-established guidelines for moderate income, which vary based on family size.  Alternative services are available for businesses that do not meet these criteria.

For more information about the Springboard program and other resources for business, visit SonomaValley4Biz.com.