Berkeley Business Retention Program

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