Programs
CalAsian administers a portfolio of federally, state-, and partner-funded business and workforce programs, with more than a decade of public program delivery.
Statewide Program Delivery Infrastructure
CalAsian delivers business and workforce programs through a coordinated statewide and regional delivery model. Programs are supported through federal, state, and partner funding and implemented across multiple regions and sectors. This structure enables consistent delivery and coordination across business support, workforce development, and policy priorities.
Business Centers and Programs
Our programs reflect a portfolio approach to small business and workforce support across California.
Empower
Nationwide
The Empower program, funded through the MBDA Capital Readiness Program under the U.S. Department of Commerce, helps small businesses strengthen their readiness for financing and investment.
Through structured advisory services, targeted training, and connections to capital partners, Empower supports businesses in improving financial preparedness, navigating lending processes, and engaging effectively with lenders and investors.
- Business Development
- Business Matchmaking
- Access to Contracts
- Access to Capital
Small Business Development Center
North San Joaquin Region
The San Joaquin Small Business Development Center is a technical assistance program serving small business owners in San Joaquin, Amador, Calaveras, and Alpine counties. We specialize in helping businesses in the launch and start-up phases by providing 1:1 consultations and workshops focused on business planning, accessing capital, and understanding finances.
Our services are free and available to any small business owners in the participating counties, however we can make referrals to other SBDCs across the state. If your dream is to start your own business, we’re here to assist!
Small Business Utilization Center
Statewide (SBUC)
The SBUC connects small and mid-sized businesses with federal, state and private procurement opportunities. The Center offers technical assistance and training to these businesses to support and build capacity and become contract ready.
SBUC also offers a website development service and a succession program for small businesses.
Keep Sierra Green
Sierra Region
Keep Sierra Green is a workforce initiative that supports regional economic transition by connecting small businesses and employers with talent pipelines in clean energy and related sectors. Aligned with the State’s California Jobs First initiative, the program focuses on strengthening workforce participation and aligning employer needs with emerging economic priorities across the Sierra region.
SCALE: Access to Capital
Sacramento, San Joaquin, Sierra Regions
Funded by the State of California Office of the Small Business Advocate, SCALE: Access to Capital initiative expands small business participation in capital markets by advancing practical solutions to financing barriers. Through research, partnership development, and capacity-building activities, SCALE informs improved financing practices and fosters connections between entrepreneurs, lenders, and investors. This initiative supports California’s economic resilience by strengthening pathways for small business capital access and aligning financing resources with real business needs.
Formerly Operated Programs
- Small Business Transportation Resource Center, Southwest Region, U.S. Department of Transportation, 2011 - 2025
- MBDA Business Center, Sacramento, U.S. Department of Commerce, 2018 - 2025
- MBDA CARES Program for COVID-19 Support, U.S. Department of Commerce, 2020 - 2020
Supply Chain and Procurement Capacity
CalAsian supports supply chain participation by preparing small businesses to engage in federal, state, and private-sector contracting.
This work focuses on procurement readiness, coordination with public and private buyers, and tools that improve transparency and access within contracting systems.
OpportunityLink: A Procurement Matchmaking Platform
Our exclusive online matchmaking procurement platform connects small businesses directly to federal, state, and private contract opportunities. Let us guide you through the contracting process.
Looking for Direct Support of Your Business?
Entrepreneurs seeking advising, resources, or referrals should start at our Small Business Center, which serves as the primary entry point across CalAsian programs.
