Small business manufacturers create local jobs, foster innovation, and build supply chain resilience. The L.A. SBDC can support small business owners in developing and optimizing their small manufacturing business.

Access to Capital

Find funding options to invest in equipment, property, or working capital.

Workforce Development

Build a skilled and competitive team.

Supply Chain Assistance

Strengthen your sourcing, reshoring, and vendor connections.

Technology and Innovation

Adopt modern tools and smart technologies.

Export & Global Sales

Expand into international markets.

SBA 504 Loans

For purchasing equipment or real estate

• sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/504-loan

California IBank Small Business Loan Guarantee

Helps manufacturers secure working capital

• ibank.ca.gov/small-business/loan-guarantees/

Local Grants & Tax Credits

Tax credits and sales tax exclusions on manufacturing equipment:

• California Competes Tax Credit & incentives overview
• Manufacturing & R&D Equipment Partial Sales Tax Exemption (CA)

California Manufacturing Technology Consulting (CMTC)

Training programs and workforce solutions

• cmtc.com

Community Colleges & Trade Schools

Apprenticeship and upskilling programs can be found at many of California’s community colleges, such as the host of the LA SBDC network, Long Beach Community College District

• lbcc.edu/workforce-development

Reshoring, diversifying suppliers, or finding local vendors

Assistance available through CMTC and local SBDC advisors

• cmtc.com

Supplier Scouting (e.g., NIST MEP Supplier Matching)

Programs available through the federal MEP network via CMTC or SBDC collaboration:

• nist.gov/mep/centers/california-manufacturing-technology-consulting-cmtc.

Made in California Program

Helps market your California-made products.

• madeincalifornia.ca.gov

Industry 4.0 Adoption Support

Guidance on automation, robotics, and digital transformation.

• cmtc.com

Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)

Federal resources for innovation & competitiveness, including CMTC as California’s MEP center

• nist.gov/mep/centers/california-manufacturing-technology-consulting-cmtc

California STEP Grant

Financial assistance for trade shows and export marketing:

• California STEP Grant info

U.S. Commercial Service

Support with overseas business contacts and regulatory guidance: access

• Export Business CA – GO-Biz export portal
• SBA STEP page

Export Readiness Training (SBDC)

Offered through the LA SBDC network

• go.smallbizla.org/manufacturing-contact-me