PREPARED BY: KIERON SLAUGHTER DATE OF MEETING: 04/21/2025
SUBJECT:
TITLE
PRESENTATION OF PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING THE WEEK OF MAY 4-10, 2025 AS NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS WEEK
CEQA: This proposed action is not a project as defined by CEQA.
Label
CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Present Proclamation
Body
BACKGROUND
Body
Compliance statements
FY 2025-2027 Council Priority Workplan Compliance Statements:
Focus on Economic Development and Fiscal Diversification is a major policy goal contained in the FY 2023-25 City Council Priority Workplan,
CEQA Compliance Statement
CEQA: This proposed action is not a project as defined by CEQA
BACKGROUND
Every year since 1963, United States has recognized National Small Business Week to recognize the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. National Small Business Week, recognized annually by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), celebrates the vital contributions of small businesses and entrepreneurs across the country. Small businesses serve as the foundation of local economies, driving job creation, innovation, and community development. More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year.
In the City of San Pablo, small businesses play a crucial role in fostering economic growth and providing essential goods and services to residents. The city has a long-standing commitment to supporting small businesses through strategic partnerships and initiatives aimed at fostering business success and sustainability.
A key component of this support is the unique and ongoing partnership between the City of San Pablo and the San Pablo Economic Development Corporation (SPEDC). This collaboration has been instrumental in providing small business assistance, workforce development, and entrepreneurial resources to help businesses feel welcome and thrive.
Also, in June, 2024 the city released its Economic Development Strategy (EDS), a comprehensive plan designed to drive business growth, attract new investment, and enhance economic opportunities for residents and entrepreneurs. This strategy outlines key priorities, including small business support, workforce development, commercial revitalization, and housing initiatives.
Additionally, the recent creation of the Economic Development & Housing Division within the City Manager’s Office reinforces the City’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment. This new division enhances the City’s ability to support small businesses, promote commercial development, and implement policies that drive economic vitality.
By officially recognizing National Small Business Week, the City of San Pablo reaffirms its dedication to local businesses, encourages community support for small enterprises, and highlights the importance of entrepreneurship in shaping a thriving local economy. Through this recognition, the city aims to promote awareness of available resources, celebrate the resilience of small business owners, and strengthen partnerships that enhance economic opportunities within San Pablo.