The Sustainability Transition: Green Business Strategies for the Future — August 11, 2026
Sustainability is becoming both a business imperative and a competitive advantage. This forum highlighted practical strategies to improve environmental sustainability while increasing efficiency, reducing costs, strengthening brand value, and supporting long-term growth. Attendees heard from industry leaders, the Green Business Program, and City representatives on how sustainable practices can deliver measurable business benefits.
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Business Preparedness Series: Emergency Response & Fire Safety Workshop — July 16, 2026
The City of Irvine's Office of Emergency Management and the Orange County Fire Authority have developed a CERT-inspired workshop specifically tailored for businesses. This workshop was the first in the City's three-part Emergency Preparedness Series for Businesses, designed to help businesses strengthen resilience, enhance business continuity, and prepare for a range of operational disruptions.
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Small Business Capital and Growth Conference — June 5, 2026
The Small Business Capital and Growth Conference featured dynamic breakout sessions, one-on-one matchmaking opportunities, and compelling strategies for growing and scaling businesses.
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Office Hours with OC Workforce Solutions: Adult Job Seeker Services — June 4, 2026
The community connected one-on-one with workforce professionals for free career guidance, job search support, training resources, paid work experience opportunities, and more. Services also included workforce workshops and support with transportation, clothing, and basic needs. This was ideal for anyone exploring a career change, re-entering the workforce, or building new skills. Learn more about these services at ocworkforcesolutions.com (Open in new window).
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Breaking Barriers: Streamlining Business in Irvine — April 23, 2026
City leaders and local experts gathered for a forum on navigating regulatory processes, with practical insights into business licensing, planning, and permitting. Attendees learned about Irvine’s Navigator Program — a concierge-style, case-management service designed to move projects forward efficiently.
Disaster Preparedness Workshop for Small Businesses — April 9, 2026
The Greater Irvine Chamber, in collaboration with the City of Irvine, hosted a free Outsmart Disaster: Business Disaster Preparedness (Open in new window) workshop.
This hands-on session helped business owners and managers prepare for emergencies, protect employees and assets, and maintain operations during disruptions. Participants completed guided planning exercises and received a Certificate of Completion.
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Start Smart: Launching Your Childcare Business — March 23, 2026
In collaboration with the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center, the City hosted a hands-on workshop designed to support aspiring childcare providers in launching successful and compliant businesses. Participants were guided through key steps, including navigating licensing requirements, creating safe and nurturing environments, and building sustainable business models. The session provided practical tools and insights to help attendees take confident first steps toward opening their childcare businesses.
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SBDC Small Business Clinic — January 22, 2026
On January 22, 2026, at the Quail Hill Community Center, the City hosted a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Small Business Clinic, providing hands-on support to local entrepreneurs through personalized, one-on-one consultations. Over the course of the evening, 16 businesses received tailored guidance from SBDC advisors, addressing topics ranging from business planning to operations and growth strategies. Participating businesses represented a diverse mix of industries, including translation services, healthcare, and advertising, reflecting the breadth of Irvine’s small business community. The clinic underscored the City’s ongoing commitment to delivering practical, accessible resources that help businesses overcome challenges and move confidently to their next stage of growth.
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From Startup to Scale Innovation Forum — January 15, 2026
The City’s From Startup to Scale forum was a strong success, bringing together more than 100 attendees for a thoughtful and engaging discussion on innovation, growth, and collaboration in Orange County. The event featured distinguished industry and academic leaders, including Johannes Rott, Vice President of Plug and Play; Joshua Dominic, Founder and CEO of Dreamstar Lines; Paul Choi, Head of Operations for DreamTrans LLC; and Dr. Ian Williamson, Dean of UC Irvine’s Paul Merage School of Business.
As part of the City’s ongoing commitment to fostering a thriving innovation ecosystem, the forum highlighted how Irvine continues to serve as a launchpad for emerging companies and a hub for scaling businesses in Southern California. By connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and academic institutions, the event underscored Irvine’s role in driving regional economic growth, supporting job creation, and strengthening the community’s collaborative spirit. Panelists offered practical, real-world insights that resonated with attendees and helped spark new relationships and ideas that will continue to shape Irvine’s future economy.
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