Local funding and financial management for small businesses
For many small business owners, managing cash flow, keeping track of their books, and securing capital can be some of the most pressing challenges when it comes to financial management of their business.
In our current economic climate, funding opportunities may feel limited, but here in Carlsbad and across San Diego County, a variety of resources exist that can help businesses strengthen their financial footing, connect with advisors, and access support networks designed to help them grow. This month, we will look at a few of those resources that are available.
Digital Resources and the Small Business Workshop Series
If you’re looking to take the first step in strengthening your business, explore the City’s Digital Resource Hub and take advantage of the Small Business Advisor Tool. This tool allows you to search for specific topics, such as “Finance,” to uncover tailored resources, including best practices for accounting, bookkeeping, and strategies to fund business growth. If you’re unsure where to begin, the “Not sure where to start” button can help guide you toward the most relevant resources.
Here are a few examples of best practices that many small businesses have found helpful:
•Understand your cash flow – Review cash flow regularly to anticipate challenges before they arise.
•Keep accurate records – Maintain clear records of all financial transactions, including sales, expenses, receipts, and invoices.
•Separate business and personal finances – Keeping accounts separate makes bookkeeping easier and helps avoid confusion or potential legal issues.
Building on these practices, the City of Carlsbad, in partnership with the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, hosts a monthly Small Business Workshop Series to connect entrepreneurs and small business owners with additional tools that strengthen operations and spark growth. Each session highlights timely, practical resources available across the city and region. The upcoming October workshop will focus on financial management, offering guidance on bookkeeping, strategies to improve cash flow, and an overview of funding tools and programs businesses can tap into. Participants will also learn about community-based financing options, incentive programs, and support services that can help stabilize day-to-day operations while positioning their business for long-term success.
SBDC Advisors Provide
One-on-One Support
If you need one-on-one support, a valuable resource for business owners might be connecting with the San Diego & Imperial Small Business Development Center (SBDC), which has a North County office and programming right here in Carlsbad. SBDC advisors provide no-cost, confidential advising to help you navigate financing, loan preparation, business planning, and more. Whether you’re an established business or just getting started, you can schedule an appointment by signing up at sdivsbdc.org/advising.
Explore Additional Financial
Options
Beyond workshops and advising, businesses can explore a mix of financial strategies that may help them get through challenges and get ahead. A good starting point might be your current bank or credit union, where you can discuss potential lines of credit or loan programs tailored to your personal or business needs. Local nonprofit organizations also provide strong support. For example, Accessity offers affordable loans, financial education, and mentorship, while CDC Small Business Financing specializes in low-interest loan programs for businesses at all stages of growth. The County of San Diego now provides dedicated business support resources, helping entrepreneurs connect with financing opportunities, permitting guidance, and other tools to strengthen their operations. Applicable to some businesses, the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development maintains a searchable database of incentive and grant programs, while federally, Grants.gov serves as the primary portal for identifying and applying for government funding opportunities. For additional guidance, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides resources and tools on funding strategies and financial management that can be tailored to your specific industry.
Staying Connected
If you have questions about available programs or need help navigating your options, the City of Carlsbad’s Economic Development team is here to assist. Reach out to us anytime at [email protected].