The Oakhurst Area Chamber of Commerce announced that its Madera County Mountain Community Main Streets program has been selected by California Main Street to join a statewide entrepreneurial training and small business coaching initiative.
This participation is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem & Small Business Coaching Program, which aims to improve resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners in the Oakhurst area and neighboring mountain communities.
California Main Street, a nonprofit organization, works with cities throughout California to support downtown revitalization and economic development. Since 1986, California Main Street programs have contributed to more than $8.5 billion in public and private investment, created nearly 35,000 jobs, established over 7,000 new businesses, and rehabilitated close to 1,850 buildings across the state.
The Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Program is structured to increase collaboration among local organizations that support businesses. It brings together chambers of commerce, local governments, educational groups, financial institutions and other community partners to strengthen assistance available for both new and established business owners.
Organizations participating in the program will take part in an in-person workshop focused on building entrepreneurial networks as well as virtual strategy sessions. Digital assessment tools will be used by both organizations and individual entrepreneurs. After these activities are completed, Main Street America staff will provide a report with tailored recommendations for developing a stronger support system for businesses in the region.
As part of the program’s coaching component, four small business owners from Oakhurst will receive one-on-one coaching aimed at improving digital skills and strategic planning. Each selected participant will complete an online questionnaire about their goals and challenges before being matched with a professional coach who develops a personalized plan. Participants can access up to four individualized sessions scheduled at their convenience.
“Being selected for this program is a tremendous honor and an exciting opportunity for our Chamber and our community,” said Adam Olivares, executive director of the Oakhurst Area Chamber of Commerce. “This opportunity will really highlight how our Mountain Community Main Streets program will help us better connect our local business owners with the tools and resources they need to thrive, while also fostering collaboration among the many organizations that share in supporting economic vitality.”
