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DEMYSTIFYING THE EDC

DEMYSTIFYING THE EDC

SBA. SBDC. EDC. SMVCC. It is easy to get lost in all the wonderful abbreviations that are at the forefront and peripheries in the business, economic, and goverment world. For many, the first thing that comes to mind with the abbreviated 'EDC' isn't necessarily business related, but nevertheless, the Economic Development Collaborative, 'EDC,' is here for just that.

The Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce is proud to work closely with the Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to provide Santa Barbara County business owners and entrepreneurs with resources and advice to succeed in an ever-changing and competitive marketplace.

The EDC hosts the Small Business Development Center and is partially funded through an mutual agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, along with additional grant funds from the Governor's Office of Economic Development. Since its inception in 1996, the EDC has been an essential resource, providing businesses, community partners and local leaders with resources at no cost--in an effort to boost economic vitality in the region.

In the Santa Maria Valley, David Hernandez, Hispanic Business Representative for the Santa Maria Valley Chamber also doubles as our local EDC representative. David is available to assist any business, whether or not they are a part of the Chamber, in getting them connected to the resources necessary in order for their business to succeed. This joint position was initially began on a trial-basis, but the Santa Maria Valley Chamber is excited to announce that the partnership between the Chamber and the EDC has been so impactful, that the partnership will continue through the joint collaboration inherent in David Hernandez's role.

The Economic Development Collaborative also works closely with other organizations locally and regionally such as:

• Score, a national non-profit that seeks to support small business communities through mentoring and education opportunities. The local chapter is based in San Luis Obispo (SLO).

• Women's Economic Ventures (WEV), a 501(c)3 that serves Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. Their focus is womenled entrepreunership and economic ventures, along with diversity and inclusion.

• REACH, a central coast based non-profit organization with a focus on regional prosperity, spearheaded by a variety of private sector stakeholders.

That's just the tip of the iceberg. If you are looking for a business resource, chances are the EDC or the Santa Maria Valley Chamber can point you in the right direction.

David Hernandez, Hispanic Business Representative/ EDC Representative can be reached at david@santamaria.com

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