The following is a list of organizations that can provide advising, workshops, and resources for small-scale farmers in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties that are looking for help with the business side of their operation. This list is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute any endorsement or recommendation by UC Cooperative Extension. If you would like to suggest updates or additions to this list, please email ctuoheymote@ucanr.edu.
The Economic Development Collaborative provides business consulting, funding, and strategic initiatives that support the regional economies of Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles counties.
Economic Development Collaborative website
Services:
- Free business consulting on strategic planning, marketing, social media, and more
- Hosts the Business Development Loan Fund and Disaster Bridge Loan Fund
- Hosts the LA SBDC GO Global Trade Program to help local businesses access global markets
- Resources in both English and Spanish
Business Assistance Line:
(805)-409-9159
SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals. SCORE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
Services:
- Mentoring (in-person or remotely by email, phone, or video)
- Free online workshops, on-demand courses, and resources
San Luis Obispo County and Santa Maria Valley website
Phone number: (805) 547-0779
Santa Barbara County website
Phone number: (805) 367-3292
The California Agricultural Mediation Program (CALAMP) is the official United States Department of Agriculture certified agricultural mediation program for California. CALAMP’s services are free to the agricultural community on many issues. Mediation is a way to resolve disputes using an impartial person to assist parties in negotiating their differences.
Environmental Mediation Center's Main website
Statewide Agricultural Mediation Program website
Mediation Services:
- lease questions
- neighbor disputes
- succession planning
- other