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California Proposed FY2020-2021 Budget

“It’s often said that budgets are statements of values. In America’s most populous and productive state, our state Budget is more than that. It is a blueprint for a better quality of life and brighter future for millions of individuals striving and succeeding together—in pursuit of their own version of the California Dream.”– Excerpt from

10th MicroLenders Forum – Success!

On April 23, 2019, more than 60 microlenders and other lending stakeholders gathered for one of our favorite events – the MicroLenders Forum – at the Google Foundation. We kicked off the day with a listening session. Steve de Jesus from the FDIC promoted an organizing roundtable (in English) on May 22 in San Jose

Global Cash Analysis – A Microlending Essential

Global Cash Flow Analysis is a critical part of small business lending underwriting that takes a holistic view of the business owner’s entire cash situation – because looking at the business alone does not provide the whole story, specially of microbusinesses. Whether you’re a microlender or business assistance provider – help your clients get the best loan they can by understanding their financial situation.

CalSavers: California’s Free Retirement Program

In July 2019, the state is launching a new retirement program that will enable employers to provide their employees with a payroll deduction Individual Retirement Account (IRA) at no cost to the employer or taxpayer. CalSavers will eliminate the three major concerns that small business owners cite as reasons for not offering a retirement plan: cost, liability, and complexity.

MicroTracker: Fill Out This Year’s Census and Review 2017 Census Results

CAMEO partners with FIELD at the Aspen Institute to conduct a census of California’s microbusiness programs using the microTracker platform. CAMEO members that fill out the Census by the end of October will receive $100 toward lunch for their staff. Accion San Diego took their entire staff to lunch. Email Andrew when you’ve completed your survey for your

Engaging with Veterans: Entrepreneurship and the Military

CAMEO’s Women Veterans Entrepreneurship Network offers year-round community events to foster new businesses. Veterans Day is an excellent time to promote your business development classes and special programs for veterans, military spouses and caregivers. Join us for tips on how to engage more military-connected business owners in time for Veterans Day.

Small Business Disaster Recovery and Resilience

After last year’s fire season and the start of this year’s, we’re living in a new normal. Fires and other disasters (earthquakes, floods, etc.) have a profound effect on local businesses. After reaching out to those affected, they are looking for contacts to agencies/organizations who might provide resources such as microloans to businesses. Don’t wait until it’s too late, prepare now.