Small Business Success Stories

CalOSBA’s network of small business support centers support entrepreneurs across California to start, manage, and grow their businesses by guiding owners to training and grant opportunities, helping them identify and obtain financing, and pointing them to new market opportunities. Check out some of the owners who have taken advantage of these no-cost/low-cost services to deliver positive impact for their businesses. Ready to follow their lead? Find a small business support center near you.

BAPA’S Market

BAPA’S Market

The inspiration behind BAPA’s Market came from the observed need for a local natural food-bodega in the Meriam Park neighborhood. As a homeowner and business professional in the area, Ashley Juhl-Darlington recognized the lack of accessibility…

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The Pie Mamas

The Pie Mamas

For founder Anna Covarrubias, baking has always been part of her family’s way of expressing love. Raised in a household full of cooks, she was inspired by her mother’s recipes and the joy of sharing food. After starting with small orders…

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Espes 2 Go

Espes 2 Go

Miguel Quevedo grew up immersed in the restaurant industry, working alongside his family at La Esperanza, a beloved local restaurant established by his grandparents in 1976. The restaurant’s name which translates to hope, became a…

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Givo Ice Cream

Givo Ice Cream

Giselle Palomo Garcia demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit early by founding three ice cream businesses in Michoacán, Mexico. When Giselle came to Orange County, she wanted to bring her business acumen with her, but she wasn’t sure how to start in…

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Shoppe Serendipity

Shoppe Serendipity

Kristina Taylor, Karuk Tribe Member and Owner of Shoppe Serendipity, runs a delightful gallery gift shop in the historic downtown of the far northeast city of Yreka. Yreka, the county seat of Siskiyou County, is a beautiful mountainous town located off the I-5 near the Oregon border…

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Tomfoolery

Tomfoolery

Mary Hartley and Celeste Cramer bought the store Tomfoolery in 2023, which has been women-owned for 40yrs, since first opening its doors in 1983. They plan to bring in new lines and a fresh look to this long-term Chico business. “You can find…

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California Office of the Small Business Advocate
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Sacramento, CA 95814
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