Latest news with #OfficeofInnovationandEconomicDevelopment
Yahoo
07-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Business Solutions Center to help small businesses launched
( — The new resource hub, Business Solution Center, was launched by the City of Sacramento in an effort to help local small businesses succeed. Video Above: Local business in Old Sacramento focused on Eco-Friendly products Officials said the City's Office of Innovation and Economic Development developed the hub, while the American Rescue Plan Act and the U.S. Small Business Administration funded it. The Business Solutions Center aims to unite multiple small business services into a 'single, streamlined program.' The hub offers personalized, one-on-one support for entrepreneurs who want to build a business plan, expand operations or navigate permitting and licensing. 'We know small businesses are the backbone of Sacramento's economy, and the Business Solutions Center is about meeting them where they are with the support they need to succeed,' said Denise Malvetti, Deputy Director of the Office of Innovation and Economic Development. 'Whether it's funding, permits, or someone to help navigate your next steps, this Center puts real, tangible resources within reach.' 13th measles case of 2025 in the state confirmed in Woodland The center helps business access: Up to $5,000 in microgrant funding to invest in equipment. One-on-one consultations with counselors in partnership with California Capital Financial Development Corporation. Up to $2,500 in city fee credits to help cover permitting, licensing or inspection costs SizeUp Sacramento: a data tool offering insights on business performance, competitors and customers 'From day one, we've designed the Business Solutions Center with equity, accessibility, and long-term impact in mind,' Malvetti said. 'This isn't just about recovery—it's about building a stronger, more inclusive local economy for years to come.' Officials said the center was built with an emphasis on 'equity, accountability, and measurable results.' The city is able to evaluate the program's impact through a customer relationship management system that tracks service requests. Based on the evolving needs of Sacramento's business community, adjustments are made. Those who want to participate can: Visit the 311 portal and register for an account. Add your business to your 311 account Submit a 'Business Resources' request through the dashboard Officials said those who already have a 311 account can: Login and select 'My Profile' Then click on 'Add Business' Select 'Request Service' and make sure to click the 'Business Case' request. More information can be found on the city's website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Miami Herald
17-03-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
Miami Rapper Flo Rida is giving back to his hometown through investment
In an industry where feuds and flashy displays of wealth often make headlines, rapper and entrepreneur Flo Rida is setting a different example. Born Tramar Dillard in Miami Gardens, Flo Rida has chosen to invest in his community in a way that fosters real economic empowerment. That's something worth celebrating. His recent $10 million purchase of the Cloverleaf Plaza in his old Miami-Dade neighborhood is more than just a business move — it's a statement about reinvesting in Black entrepreneurship and creating sustainable and generational wealth where it's needed most. Flo Rida's purchase of the Cloverleaf Plaza, now the city's first entirely Black-owned shopping center, was completed two years ago but officially unveiled at a Miami Gardens city hall ceremony and news conference in February, which happened to be Black History Month. Many may not realize that Miami-Dade ranks fifth in the nation for Black-owned employer businesses, with Miami-Dade's Black consumer market valued at $5.5 billion — making it the 14th largest in the country, according to county figures. The county already celebrates Black Business Month every August. In Miami-Dade, Black-owned businesses account for 51,285 of the county's 468,185 private businesses, representing 11% of all businesses. They generate more than $2.3 billion in annual sales and employ over 12,000 individuals., the county says. Obviously, Flo Rida and his partner in the purchase, childhood friend Lee Prince, recognize the importance of small businesses. And so does Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava who recently hired Manny Cid, the former mayor of Miami Lakes, as Senior Advisor for Economic Opportunity in the county's Office of Innovation and Economic Development, with a focus on strengthening small businesses. We think that's a solid investment. In Flo Rida's case, creating a hub for Black entrepreneurs — including hair salons, restaurant, florist, smoke shop, along with other small businesses — at the 28,000-square-foot strip mall may help create an incubator of opportunities for others in a minority neighborhood. Beyond the financial benefits, his investment strengthens community security and may help preserve cultural identity. These Black-owned businesses serve the Black community, ensuring that money remains local. Flo Rida's vision for the plaza, as reported by Miami Herald reporter Raisa Habersham, includes fostering a sense of pride and ownership among residents. This is critical in a county where gentrification is rapidly displacing residents of historically Black neighborhoods like Overtown, Liberty City and Brownsville. The revitalized plaza is expected to serve as a catalyst for more community-driven investments. 'We are definitely proud of the fact that we had some of our local people decide to invest back into Miami Gardens,' said Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris at the city hall ceremony. Rather than allowing outside investors to take control, Flo Rida is ensuring economic benefits remain within the neighborhood. That deserves a tip of the hat. When celebrities and billionaires commit resources to their hometowns, they inspire a culture of reinvestment that can create lasting transformation and economic stability. Flo Rida's investment could have broader impact. Black-owned businesses in Miami-Dade employ thousands and support a combined payroll exceeding $320 million. As these businesses grow, they create jobs, circulate wealth within the community and inspire future entrepreneurs. And we must note that Flo Rida's dedication to his hometown and home state go beyond typical celebrity philanthropy. He isn't just donating money — he is actively shaping the future of Miami Gardens with a real estate investment. Flo Rida's championing of the Cloverleaf Plaza is a strategic move toward economic empowerment within the Black community where he grew up. Flo Rida's investment is a form of giving back. And that's something we could use more of in Miami-Dade County. Click here to send the letter.
Yahoo
05-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Sacramento businesses may be granted up to $240,000 from new investment program
( — The City of Sacramento is now accepting applications from eligible businesses and property owners to receive up to $240,000 in funding. Led by the City Council District 2 Office and managed by the Office of Innovation and Economic Development, the North Sacramento Business Investment Program was created to help the North Sacramento small business and real estate community recover from the negative economic impacts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a press release. California State University among first in the country to blend AI with education 'The North Sacramento Business Investment Program represents a significant step toward revitalizing our community and supporting local businesses that are the backbone of our economy,' said Councilmember Roger Dickinson, who represents the district. 'This initiative will help create opportunities for growth, foster innovation, and bring renewed vibrancy to our commercial corridors, ensuring that North Sacramento continues to thrive.' Divided into three categories, the North Sacramento Business Investment Program includes storefront retailer improvements, storefront retailer equipment assistance, and restoration of vacant buildings for tenancy. According to the City, about $1.6 million is available from a $5 million Federal American Rescue Plan allocation for the North Sacramento Economic Recovery Plan. Applications for the grant can be found at The deadline to apply is 4 p.m. on Feb. 28. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
