Women's Business Resources in California
Last Updated: By TRUiC Team
Starting a business can be challenging, but you don't have to go through it alone. There are a number of local resources in California dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs start and succeed in business. We researched and vetted entrepreneurial resources available in your area and compiled our recommended list. Continue reading to discover the right one for you.
You can also read our guide on how to start a business in California.
Resources in Your Area
Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
About:
WBENC is a federal advisory committee created to provide nonpartisan advice to a variety of government entities on the modern economic issues that affect women business owners today. It can put women in touch with a variety of professional groups and resources that can help them grow their businesses.
Who it's right for:
WBENC is perfect for any woman who wants more exposure to the wide range of opportunities in her area. From executive coaching to networking to capital raising, WBENC can be a light in the dark for entrepreneurs everywhere.
Location:
3720 W 54th St
Los Angeles, CA 90043
California Capital Financial Development Corporation
About:
Created in 1982, this nonprofit provides guarantees on bank loans for small business owners in Northern California.
Who it's right for:
Any woman in Northern California who is having difficulty securing the capital needed to operate their business at its ideal level.
Location:
1792 Tribute Rd., Suite 270
Sacramento, AL 95815
Contact Information:
(916) 442-1729
National Association of Women Business Owners - Los Angeles
About:
NAWBO was created to give women business owners the information necessary to improve their businesses. Members get access to resources, referrals, scholarship opportunities, and WBO reports. The organization is designed to help women at every stage of business.
Who it's right for:
Any woman in Los Angeles who wants to join an organization that supports and empowers women in all their endeavors. The advice and opportunities can apply to entrepreneurs in any economic sector.
Location:
405 Greenboro Drive, Suite 800
McLean, VA 22102
Contact Information:
(800) 556-2926
WomensNet - California
About:
WomensNet promotes a variety of funding opportunities for small business owners, including the Amber Grant Foundation. This initiative is designed to give women the opportunities necessary to acquire capital and use it to improve their businesses.
Who it's right for:
Any woman who is struggling with how to apply for and obtain grants, loans, or other funding sources.
Location:
550 East Shaw, Suite 105A
Fresno, CA 93710
Contact Information:
(559) 241-7414
A New America Community Corporation
About:
Operating for nearly two decades, A New America has been helping communities in Northern California by empowering local entrepreneurs. This group is here to guide individuals through incubation, training, and asset-building.
Who it's right for:
Any woman in Northern California who would like expert assistance in building a successful enterprise and achieving economic independence.
Location:
(multiple locations) 1470 Fruitvale Ave, Suite 5
Oakland, CA 94601
Contact Information:
(510) 532-5240
Opportunity Fund
About:
The Opportunity Fund is a nonprofit lender that invests in small businesses who may not be able to pull funding from other sources. The goal of this group is to not only help individuals with funding, but also the existing communities.
Who it's right for:
Any woman seeking additional capital to grow her business. The Opportunity Fund has given out over $92.5 million in fiscal year 2017 alone to nearly 3,000 small businesses.
Location:
(multiple locations) 5701 South Eastern Avenue, Suite 120
Commerce, CA 90040
Contact Information:
(866) 299-8173
Professional Business Women of California
About:
The Professional Business Women of California (PBWC) was established in 1989 as a way to embrace and encourage women to move forward in the business world. This nonprofit is comprised of executives, leaders, and entrepreneurs from both private and public sectors. The group promotes gender equality, networking opportunities, and skill development.
Who it's right for:
The PBWC is perfect for any woman who wants to grow in her role, regardless of title or position. It’s also a great way to receive mentorship and take part in a larger goal.
Location:
2977 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite 179
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Contact Information:
(415) 857-2923
Richmond Business Resources
About:
Richmond Business Resources is a nonprofit group designed to promote the revitalization of downtown Richmond. The group wants to play a key role in creating a diverse center for everyone to take part in and enjoy.
Who it's right for:
Women business owners in Richmond who want to embrace the city’s cultural heritage. This group may be able to provide everything from funding to community support for the right entrepreneurs.
Campbell, California - Business Resources
About:
The California Enterprise Development Authority (CEDA) was established in 2006 to correct gaps in financing for community development. The group grants private activity bonds to give owners the capital necessary to go above and beyond in their ventures.
Who it's right for:
Women who want to support and develop their communities with conscientious small businesses. These tax-exempt bonds will only be given to the projects that fit the requirements of CEDA.
Women’s Economic Ventures
About:
Established in 1991, Women’s Economic Ventures provides a micro-loan fund and self-employment training program designed to even the playing field for all women.
Who it's right for:
Any woman who wants to receive financial, practical, and even emotional support. This group was formed to promote a more equitable society for all.
Location:
333 S. Salinas Street
Santa Barbara, AL 93103
Contact Information:
(805) 965-6073
Women’s Entrepreneurship Programs
About:
The Women’s Entrepreneurship Programs is a part of the Office of Economic and Workforce Development. It’s designed to promote prosperity in San Francisco through mentorship, consulting, and funding. This group can connect women to any number of initiatives that will help them grow a business.
Who it's right for:
This resource is perfect for women in the area who want to network and explore local opportunities in this diverse city.
Location:
1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, City Hall, Room 448
San Francisco, CA 94102
Contact Information:
(415) 554-6969
eWomen Network
About:
eWomen Network helps business owners in Los Angeles find effective ways to connect with each other.
Who it's right for:
This group is perfect for women in Los Angeles who want to find like-minded professionals. The group encourages women to think outside the box when it comes to finding (and developing) new projects and opportunities.
Location:
14900 Landmark Blvd , Suite 540
Dallas , TX 75254
Contact Information:
(972) 620-9995
Marin Women at Work
About:
Marin Women at Work (MWAW) is a casual group promoting innovation and collaboration in business. Composed of a vivacious and dedicated network, this group wants women to share their skills and knowledge to build a brighter tomorrow.
Who it's right for:
This social group is excellent for women who want to make both professional and personal connections. Those who feel stagnant in their business may especially appreciate the varied perspectives and viewpoints.
Location:
1 Mitchell Boulevard, Suite B
San Rafael, CA 94903
Contact Information:
(415) 925-2060
Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce
About:
The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce hosts conferences designed to motivate women entrepreneurs in the area. The speakers, events, and guest lists are created to honor women and inspire opportunities for them to get ahead.
Who it's right for:
Women in the Temecula area who want to meet local leaders and learn more about the current initiatives being taken in their area.
Location:
26790 Ynez Court, Ste. A
Temecula, CA 92591
Contact Information:
(951) 676-5090
Women’s Enterprise Centre
About:
The Women’s Enterprise Centre assists women by assessing types of business loans based on their company’s needs. It also provides women with workshops that will educate them so their companies can thrive.
Who it's right for:
This funding opportunity is for women interested in different loan options to expand their business.
Location:
1726 Dolphin Avenue, Suite 201
Kelowna, AL V1Y 9R9
Contact Information:
(800) 643-7014
Center for Women & Gender Equity
About:
The Center for Women & Gender Equity group was created to support students of St. Mary’s of all gender identities.
Who it's right for:
Student entrepreneurs who wish to be connected to a variety of resources in the area. This is a great way to meet people who can help you get ahead both now and in the future.
Women’s Business Center San Diego & Imperial
About:
This group provides training, business development advice, and financing to women in the Imperial Counties. Becoming a client gives you access to workshops, funding opportunities, and mentor support.
Who it's right for:
Any woman in the Imperial Counties who wants help on the practical aspects of operating their business. From social media marketing to business licensing, this group provides a fountain of useful information.
Location:
880 National City Blvd
National City, AL 91950
Contact Information:
(619) 216-6719
Sacramento Area Women's Chamber of Commerce
About:
The Chamber of Commerce hosts a number of events that allow women to mingle with one another. The networking is designed to spark partnerships and facilitate mutually beneficial relationships.
Who it's right for:
This resource is perfect for any women in the state’s capital who want to expand their professional circles.
Professional Women’s Resource
About:
The Professional Women’s Resource is a nonprofit that was inspired by the board members of the Chamber of Commerce in Fresno. The group gives women a platform to support innovation, create new businesses, and grow existing enterprises in the Central San Joaquin Valley.
Who it's right for:
This group is an excellent resource for women in the valley looking for additional connections and concrete opportunities to start or grow their business ideas.
