Berkeley Business Retention Program

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Overview

The Berkeley Business Retention Program is a collaboration between the City of Berkeley’s Office of Economic Development, Uptima Business Bootcamp, and Bay Area Organization of Black Owned Businesses to support small businesses and non-profits that are at risk of displacement or closure in Berkeley.

The business assistance part of the program is provided by Uptima Business Bootcamp. It includes free one-on-one business advising and workshops to help you create an action plan, find funding and implement your plan to maintain and grow your business in Berkeley.

Who’s Eligible?

Existing independently-owned small businesses and non-profits based in the City of Berkeley that:

  • Are potentially at risk of displacement or closure
  • Have the potential to retain existing jobs or create new jobs in Berkeley
  • Need business support to stay in place or relocate elsewhere in Berkeley
  • Can commit the time and effort to put in place a plan to maintain and grow their business

How Do We Help?

We offer free customized, one-on-one business advising to help you maintain and grow your small business in Berkeley.

Create an Action Plan
  • Develop strategies to increase your sales and profitability
  • Prepare to renew your existing commercial lease or find a new space
  • Research costs to upgrade, relocate or expand your business
  • Plan for retirement by developing a succession plan
Find Funding
  • Learn what funding options are available and how to access them
  • Prepare documentation to raise money
  • Connect with potential funders
  • Get assistance in navigating the funding process
Implement Your Plan
  • Create or enhance your online presence, including e-Commerce and online ordering options
  • Improve your operations, finances and administration
  • Mitigate business disruption before, during and after relocation
  • Transition ownership of your business

Accelerate your business.