Message from the Regional Director

Diane Howerton Welcome to our updated website and we hope you find our information easy to navigate. The University of California, Merced Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Regional Network is committed to assisting entrepreneurs and the small business community throughout Central California. Our network covers a very diverse 15-county, 51,000 square mile region that is rich in agriculture, technology and energy clusters along with the scenic beauty of Yosemite and the Pacific Ocean.

Our mission is to promote the development and growth of small businesses by providing high quality business assistance throughout Central California thereby enhancing regional prosperity. The UC Merced SBDC network provides consulting services and educational programs to entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their small or medium size business.

SBDC consultants work with entrepreneurs in confidential, one-to-one sessions to help them with a range of business issues including testing a new business concept, shaping a business plan, investigating funding opportunities, pricing and cash flow analysis, financial projections, and much more.

SBDC educational programs serve to inform and assist entrepreneurs with the many decisions a new or existing business owner faces. Program topics range from entrepreneurial training, procurement assistance, regulatory compliance issues, profitability strategies and green business practices to marketing tactics.

So please utilize the resources on this site, register for our excellent training programs and contact us so we can be of assistance.

Welcome,