Starting or growing a small business takes more than just a great idea. It also takes a strong financial foundation both for your business and for yourself. That’s why the City of Sacramento has expanded its free financial coaching services to better support local entrepreneurs.

Helping Entrepreneurs Overcome Financial Barriers

With the help of a $90,000 grant, the City of Sacramento is working to remove financial roadblocks for small business owners through the Sacramento Financial Empowerment Center (FEC). This funding was awarded through the Small Business Boost (SBB) Initiative, a national program designed to strengthen the financial stability of entrepreneurs. Sacramento is one of only seven cities selected for this opportunity.

The program offers personalized, professional, one-on-one financial coaching to local residents 18+ at no cost. These sessions help business owners tackle common financial issues like managing debt, building savings, and improving credit. Without support, these challenges can make it difficult to access loans or secure investment.

Support Beyond Business Finances

Through the Center, businesses can access a range of valuable resources designed to support growth and sustainability:

  • One-on-one consultations with expert business counselors, offered in partnership with California Capital Financial Development Corporation

  • Microgrant funding of up to $5,000 to invest in equipment, digital tools, or service expansion

  • City fee credits of up to $2,500 to offset permitting, licensing, or inspection costs

  • SizeUp Sacramento, a powerful data tool offering insights into business performance, competitors, and potential customers

Although the coaching includes a strong focus on personal finances, the benefits extend far beyond the individual. Healthier personal finances can help entrepreneurs make better business decisions, qualify for funding, and plan for long-term success.

In a City of Sacramento press release, Financial Empowerment Manager Amy Williamson noted, “Many small business owners face personal finance barriers that can impede their ability to start or grow a business. The FEC’s certified financial coaches can help business owners tackle those challenges.”

Whether you’re launching a new venture or working to grow an existing one, this program provides hands-on support and funding tools that can make a meaningful impact.

Who’s Behind the Initiative

The Small Business Boost Initiative is led by the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund with support from Principal® Foundation. Financial Empowerment Center is operated locally by the International Rescue Committee in Sacramento (IRC), through a contract with the City. Since 2020, the FEC has supported over 1,500 individuals with services like budgeting assistance, credit repair, and access to safe financial products.

The financial coaching is available in several languages, including English, Spanish, Dari/Farsi, and Urdu. Student loan counseling is also available in English through a separate state-funded program.

How to Participate

To access services through the FEC, you’ll need to submit a “Business Resources” request through the City’s 311 system:

  • If you don’t have a 311 account:

    • Visit the 311 Portal

    • Register for a 311 account

    • Add your business to your account

    • Submit a “Business Resources” request through the dashboard

  • If you already have a 311 account but haven’t engaged with the Center yet:

    • Log in and go to “My Profile,” then select “Add Business”

    • Click “Request Service” and make sure to indicate that your request is a “Business Case”

You can also learn more or schedule a free session by visiting the Sacramento Financial Empowerment Center’s website or calling 916-808-4927.

Local business support organizations are helping spread the word, but no matter how you hear about the program, the goal is the same: helping Sacramento entrepreneurs build stronger financial foundations to support long-term success.

Wrap-Up

Whether you’re navigating the early stages of your business or looking to strengthen your financial foundation, the Sacramento Financial Empowerment Center is a resource worth exploring. With free, confidential coaching and a focus on removing personal finance barriers, this program offers valuable support to help local entrepreneurs take their next steps with confidence.

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