"As we approach the midpoint of 2026, I am proud to reflect on the strong momentum our department has built. Through expanded workforce initiatives and meaningful community engagement, we continue to make steady progress toward strengthening the economic vitality of San Joaquin County. We are especially excited to share that our..." Read More
EDA & RLF Board Members
San Joaquin County Labor Market Insights - February 2026
San Joaquin County (SJC) unemployment rate is up to 6.8%, which is higher than both the State of CA at 5.5%, and the USA at 4.7%.
Non-farm payroll employment was essentially unchanged in all 50 states compared to the previous year. In January, job gains occurred in private education, food services, and local government.
San Joaquin County Façade Enhancement Grant Program
The Façade Enhancement Grant program has successfully supported 21 local businesses across unincorporated San Joaquin County, helping fund exterior improvements that enhance visibility, safety, and overall community appeal.
At this time, the program has reached full capacity and is no longer accepting applications. We are proud of the impact these projects have made throughout the county and look forward to the continued transformation of our local business corridors.
Standing Together Against All Regional Theft (STAART)
Protect your business with FREE security camera system grants through the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce's STAART Initiative. With 232 grants already awarded and 143 still available, now is the time to take advantage of this opportunity to enhance your security and gain peace of mind. Don't wait, visit FastSTAART.com to secure your grant!
San Joaquin County Spark Relief Grant
The Spark Relief Grants support small businesses by providing up to $5,000 in reimbursement for qualifying utility bills to those that experienced financial loss due to COVID-19. To date, 296 applications have been approved, and funding is now extremely limited. With only about 18 approvals remaining, we encourage any eligible businesses to apply as soon as possible. If you know a business that was financially impacted by the pandemic, encourage them to Apply Today!
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Open Innovation Centers continue to grow the Incubator program, having hosted over 145 workshops for aspiring entrepreneurs in San Joaquin County.
A major highlight has been the completion of their Regional Pitch Event series, where participants presented their business ideas to a panel of judges for a chance to win cash prizes and gain valuable exposure. The program recently culminated in a Final County-Wide Pitch Event, bringing together top participants from across the region. We are proud to congratulate Good & Well for earning 1st place Be sure to check out the Lodinews.com article highlighting the first pitch event held in Lodi.
Hosted by the Small Business Development Center, these three-day workshops help businesses earn certifications and compete for public contract opportunities.
In partnership with the Family Resource & Referral Center of San Joaquin, this initiative supports the growth and quality of local childcare by helping providers expand, receive specialized training, and become licensed.
To date, 92 participants have completed training across five cohorts, strengthening childcare services throughout San Joaquin County.
From Our Business Community: Spark Grant Testimonial
"These funds were a blessing and have made a difference, these types of grants go a long way for businesses like ours. Also a special shout out to the City of Escalon staff for referring us to the grant."
- Chloe, Owner of Cancun Restaurant in Escalon
From Determintion to Opportunity: A WorkNet Success Story
"Linette, a resident of Lodi, came to the Lodi WorkNet Center seeking support in securing employment after completing her college education. Despite her academic accomplishments, she had struggled to find a job in her field and felt uncertain about her next steps. Accompanied by her mother, who is a dedicated farmworker that had made tremendous sacrifices to support her daughter’s education..." Read More
Highlights from Recent Events
Tracy WorkNet Job & Resource Fair
On January 15, we held our very first Job & Resource Fair at our newTracy WorkNet Center. We were able to welcome 165 job seekers!
AB109 Job & Resource Fair
On March 26, our Re-Entry Job & Resource Fair was able to assist 115 job seekers take their next steps in their journeys with confidence.
SJC Incubator District 3 Pitch Event
On April 3, our SJC Incubator held their District 3 pitch event in Lathrop, where eight entrepreneurs, who participated in the classes, pitched their business ideas to a panel for cash prizes!
Stockton Chamber's O'Rexpo
On March 17, the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce held their Green Team Rexpo event where our team engaged with local businesses and shared our resources with them.
Youth Job & Resource Fair
On April 16, we welcomed 291 job seekers at our Youth Job & Resource Fair at our Stockton WorkNet center. A massive thank you to all the employers and partners who tabled to create an amazing event.
New Joaquin Downtown Business Walk
On April 24, we participated in a business walk with New Joaquin and Jesus Andrade, getting a firsthand look at the exciting projects and renewal efforts transforming Main Street in downtown Stockton.
SJC Incubator District 2 Pitch Event
On March 26, our SJC Incubator program held one of their district pitch events in Stockton at the Courthouse Plaza. We were able to attend and even were able to participate as a judge on the panel! It was a great event and an amazing opportunity to support young entrepreneurs in our community.
California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED) Annual Economic Development Conference
Our team attended the 2026 CALED conference in Palm Springs, April 15-17. Seen pictured here is our team posing with the Open Rewards banner with our SJC program logo, which was the program used to operate the Shop San Joaquin program!
Employment & Economic Development Updates
Celebrating National Small Business Week – May 3 through May 9
During National Small Business Week, communities across San Joaquin County are recognizing the important role small businesses play in driving our economy and strengthening our communities.
Stockton will host a series of informational sessions, mixers, and community events highlighting local entrepreneurs.
Lodi is planning a street faire, webinars, and networking events to bring the business community together.
Manteca will feature networking events, Lunch-N-Learns, and ribbon cuttings celebrating business growth and success.
Join us in celebrating and supporting the small businesses that make our communities thrive!
San Joaquin County EDA Continues Employment Training Panel Program!
We are pleased to share that our organization has been approved to continue delivering services through the Employment Training Panel (ETP). This continued partnership allows us to support local businesses by reimbursing the cost of employee training and workforce development.
To learn more about how your business can benefit from this program, please email etp.eda@sjcworknet.org or call (209) 468-3615.
Upcoming Event: Small Business Workshop – May 7, 2026
As part of Stockton Small Business Week, we’re excited to host a Small Business Workshop designed to support and empower local entrepreneurs across San Joaquin County. This interactive session will provide valuable information on available services, grant opportunities, and key resources to help businesses start, grow, and succeed. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with resource partners, gain insights into funding opportunities, and learn how to access programs tailored to small business success.
The workshop will take place on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM at the Stockton WorkNet Center. Interested participants can scan the QR codeor click here to register.
San Joaquin Public Agency Consortium (SJPAC) – “Get Connected” Event
The San Joaquin Public Agency Consortium cordially invites members of the business community to attend its upcoming FREE “Get Connected” event, designed to provide valuable insights, resources, and connections to support business growth and contracting opportunities.
This event will feature keynote presentations, local project updates, and structured opportunities to engage with local, city, county, and state agency purchasers. This event is well-suited for businesses seeking to expand their network, strengthen their capacity, and pursue public contracting opportunities.
San Joaquin County will be hosting an upcoming Job Fair on May 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Stockton WorkNet Center. This event will highlight a variety of San Joaquin County departments currently hiring, offering attendees the opportunity to learn more about available career paths, connect directly with recruiters, and explore positions in public service.
Whether you are seeking a new career opportunity or looking to grow within the public sector, this job fair is a great way to engage with county representatives and gain insight into current openings. If you want a preview at some of the positions available, check out the county job portal!
Upcoming Event: Access to Capital – Stockton Small Business Week
As part of Stockton Small Business Week, we are excited to partner with the San Joaquin Small Business Development Center and California Capital to present “Access to Capital,” an event designed to support local businesses in navigating the world of business financing.
This event will connect entrepreneurs and small business owners with trusted lenders and financial partners, providing valuable insights into funding opportunities and how to successfully access capital. Attendees will gain a better understanding of lending requirements, available financial products, and strategies to position their business for growth.
Upcoming Event: Lunch N Learn - Manteca Small Business Week
In celebration of Manteca Small Business Week, we are partnering with the San Joaquin Small Business Development Center and Valley Strong Credit Union to host a “Lunch N Learn” focused on helping small businesses prepare for funding opportunities. This informative session will provide expert insights on becoming loan-ready, including guidance on business preparation, understanding financial requirements, and exploring available lending options. Attendees will gain practical knowledge to better position their business for successful financing.
The event will take place on May 5, 2026, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at the Nona Vita Ravioli Company. Join us to connect with local experts, strengthen your financial readiness, and take the next step toward growing your business.
This WIOA Title I-financially assisted program or activity is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
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