RECOMMENDATION(S):

APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to apply to the cities of Walnut Creek, Antioch, Pittsburgh, Concord, and Richmond and if awarded, accept Community Development Block Grant funds in a total aggregate amount not to exceed $200,000 for the purpose of delivering individualized business advice and group training to low-to-moderate income residents of Contra Costa County for the period July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016.

FISCAL IMPACT:

$200,000; Community Development Block Grant Consortium (CDBG) funding.

BACKGROUND:

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) delivers group training and individualized advising to support low-to-moderate income individuals achieve self-sufficiency by starting and/or growing micro-enterprises. The project, utilizing matching SBA funds, also supports the creation of additional employment opportunities in key sectors by delivering services focused on accessing capital, securing certifications/procurement contracts, exporting and increasing sales. The Contra Costa Department of Conservation and Development will provide the funding to provide these services to low-income residents of Contra Costa County.