Business Economic Empowerment Project – Oakland Private Industry Council

Overview

Oakland Private Industry Council’s (OPIC) CA Jobs & Infrastructure was devised in response to the Biden—Harris Administration allocating $4.2 Billion towards California’s Infrastructure for the upcoming five years. This initiative aspires to synchronize federal investments with state and local undertakings. The focus is on infrastructure renovation, employment generation, small business enhancement and the establishment of networking platforms.

Through Congress member Barbra Lee’s advocacy, the Oakland Private Industry Council (OPIC) has secured Federal funds from the small Business Administration (SBA). Additional support for the program comes from the Office of Supervisor Keith Carson via the Health Care Services Agency (HCSA).

This Initiative presents a unified strategy to harmonize federal, state, and local efforts to stimulate infrastructure development, employment, and support for entrepreneurs in California. Oakland, CA, is the pilot site, setting the benchmark for integrated economic growth and community upliftment. The primary aim is to reinforce entrepreneurs and small business, primarily focusing on Black, Brown and Women owned businesses in Oakland/East Bay area.

Goals & Objectives

Support Small Business & Entrepreneurs: Join forces with the local Small Business Administration to provide funding, counseling, and bolstering support for minority, women and veteran-operated businesses.
Networking Opportunities: Arrange events for entrepreneurs small business stakeholders to forge professional connections, stay updated on sector shifts, and discover potential clientele or workforce.
Overcome Barriers: Address and eliminate obstacles restricting access to contracts and opportunities, especially for minority and women Business owners.
Community Building: Cultivate an inclusive environment, equipping entrepreneurs with community backing, legal safeguarding, and informative campaigns
Job Creation: Promote quality union jobs collaborating with OPIC to ensure tangible employment enhancements.

Key Activities

Small Business Development: Partner with the local Small Business Administration to aid entrepreneurs through diverse schemes and backing.
Networking Events: Organize industry-related and social networking events, both offline and online, enabling professionals to share knowledge, form relationships, and gain insights into emerging businesses.
Supplier Diversity Initiatives:: Advocate for procurement from business run by minorities, women, and other marginalized groups.
Business Support Programs: Offer mentorship, fiscal aid, and networking platforms to empower minority and women business owners.
Awareness and education Programming
Diversity: Launch programs to enhance awareness about diversity and confront biases, ensuring an equitable business ecosystem.
Legal Protections: Uphold just practices in procurement, contracting, and financing via legal mechanisms.