The Economic Development Business Development team supported the Santa Cruz Small Business Development Center (SBDC) along with Events Santa Cruz to host the first Santa Cruz County Small Business Summit on Friday, April 29th at the Museum of Art and History. The event aimed to connect small business owners county-wide to share tips, tools and resources, ranging from business owners’ experiences, to partner organizations sharing current programs and resources.

Over 150 participants attended the day-long summit, participating in interactive sessions hosted at the Museum of Art and History and surrounding small businesses, including Yoso Wellness Spa, Cruzio, Nextspace, Rosie McCann's, and Downtown Pops! participant, Curated By The Sea.

23 speakers facilitated various interactive sessions with topics ranging from increasing business exposure, to best practices to access capital. Among these speakers were Keynote Angelo DeBernardo, Jr., EVP Chief Lending Officer of Santa Cruz County Bank, regional stakeholders and local business owners.

Thank you to all who attended!