The Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship (IECE) at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) has continued to make a significant impact in the Inland Empire region through its innovative programs and educational resources. The latest findings reveal that IECE had a total net positive economic contribution of nearly $130 million in 2022, showcasing the center’s growing and impactful economic presence in the region.

Assisting in Sales Increases

One of the critical factors behind IECE’s impressive economic impact is its focus on supporting entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout the Inland Empire. In 2022, the center assisted in nearly $17 million in total sales increases, demonstrating the value of its programs and initiatives in helping businesses grow and succeed.

Catapult Business Growth Network: A Unique Curriculum and Process

One of the center’s most innovative programs is the Catapult Business Growth Network, introduced in 2022 to address distinct regional service gaps. This program is designed to help entrepreneurs drive and manage the growth of their businesses through a unique curriculum and process.

It includes learning proven concepts and practical tools, working with like-minded entrepreneurs to build a peer-to-peer support network, and built-in accountability mechanisms to achieve maximum results.

Throughout six intensive and dynamic sessions, entrepreneurs participating in the Catapult Business Growth Network gain new entrepreneurial competencies, connect and share business experiences, and build impactful relationships resulting in a vibrant and ongoing peer mentoring group.

This network equips participants with the tools and connections to fuel the trajectory of their business, contributing to the economic growth and success of the Inland Empire.

Financial Fitness Bootcamp: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Process

Another critical program offered by IECE is the Financial Fitness Bootcamp, a four-day small business training program that provides eight hours of in-person instruction on becoming “Financially Fit.” Attendees discover the world of financial management for small businesses in a comprehensive step-by-step process.

Understanding how and why financial management and the tools to achieve this are critical components to healthy business growth, attendees can expect to develop essential tools to manage their small business financials properly and avoid future pitfalls. This program empowers small business owners to take control of their finances and make informed decisions that contribute to their success.

SBDC Center for Contracting: Assisting Small Businesses with Winning Procurement Contracts

The SBDC Center for Contracting is another valuable program offered by IECE, which focuses on assisting small businesses with winning procurement contracts at the state, local, and private levels. The center provides education, training, and one-on-one consulting to help companies to grow their revenues in a new and diversified manner.

The SBDC’s team of experts has years of industry experience and is here to guide businesses in Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino County to grow their businesses. Whether small business owners are just trying to figure out what certification is right for them or if they receive contracts regularly, the center’s team of experts is available to provide guidance and support.

Final Thoughts

The Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship (IECE) at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) is making a significant economic impact in the region through its innovative programs and educational resources.

The center’s focus on supporting entrepreneurs and small business owners through programs like Catapult Business Growth Network, Financial Fitness Bootcamp, and SBDC Center for Contracting is helping businesses grow and succeed, resulting in a total net positive economic contribution of nearly $130 million in 2022.

With its continued commitment to supporting the Inland Empire’s economy, IECE is set to make an even more significant impact in the years to come.