The County is investing nearly $1.5 million to support entrepreneurs and job seekers in the North Fair Oaks area.
The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously today to use the funds to create the North Fair Oaks Economic Advancement Center.
As part of the program, entrepreneurs will get help obtaining grants for Latinx-owned businesses and information on access to state microbusiness COVID-19 relief grants. In addition, the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center will provide services to local small businesses and entrepreneurs, courtesy of a $500,000 grant from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative and the federal American Rescue Plan Act. Also, JobTrain will provide employment services, including job training, to individuals, households and small businesses in North Fair Oaks.
Both the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center and JobTrain will begin their work at Casa Circulo in North Fair Oaks, until a leased location is identified for the North Fair Oaks Economic Advancement Center.
“This will be an important step to bring families and individuals closer to economic independence, giving them the right tools and training for advancement” said Supervisor Warren Slocum, who represents that 4th District that includes North Fair Oaks, parts of Menlo Park including Belle Haven, East Palo Alto and Redwood City. “We know there is much talent and treasure within our vulnerable communities, and with the right services, they too can become enterprising small businesses here, or gain employment at some of our local businesses. It is also about equity – and giving others opportunities.”
The County notes that the investment “builds upon work underway for several years to build entrepreneurship for residents in the North Fair Oaks area and to help job seekers gain valuable skills.”
