As the go-to small business support system for Orange County’s under-resourced communities, immigrants, and people of color, we have touched the lives of over 4,000 people and helped 450 of them launch businesses or become launch ready. Through individualized entrepreneurial training and coaching, we provide resources where there are none, connections where they are scarce, and support where it’s hard to find.
Mission
CIELO catalyzes hope, resilience, and stability in under-resourced communities by helping enterprising individuals transform their dreams of owning a neighborhood business into reality.
Vision
Be the mentors, network, and trusted partners that under-resourced communities turn to for help building thriving community businesses and opportunities for all.
Services
Small Business Startup Course*
All the connections and resources needed to launch a small business, right here. You’re invited to partner with a team of experts dedicated to helping cultivate your skills and creativity on the road to achieving your entrepreneurial dreams.
Client Navigation*
After completing the six-week Startup Course, continue to work closely with your case manager until launch of business to address business-related issues and answer questions. From legal experts to bookkeepers and more, we’ve curated an extensive network to help you problem-solve in real-time.
Entrepreneur Workshop Series*
Offered in conjunction with a different community partner every month, the workshops are open to anyone and cover various business-related topics.
Launching Childcare Businesses
Under-resourced, immigrant, and BIPOC communities are lacking quality childcare services that focus on child development while creating meaningful work for the business owners. CIELO offers a 4-week interactive course, followed by ongoing client navigation and support to help individuals launch licensed in-home childcare businesses.
The Source*
Our online connections platform, The Source is where to go to find mentors and coaches or to volunteer as a mentor or coach. Simply create a profile, share your needs (clients) or expertise (volunteers), and The Source will help identify a match.
