The City of Santa Clarita, in partnership with College of the Canyons and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), released a Request for Proposal (RFP) today to identify creative and technology focused start-up companies for the new Small Business Incubator in Old Town Newhall.

The facility will provide four to six entrepreneurs with an opportunity to lease low-cost office space in the City’s growing arts and entertainment district for up to three years.  More than just an office space, the Small Business Incubator will provide business owners with the essential tools needed to grow a start-up company including support, guidance, consulting services, educational workshops, and networking opportunities.  Entrepreneurs will also benefit from being co-located in a space dedicated to like-minded business professionals who are focused on development and growth in creative and technology industries.

“Santa Clarita’s business community is one of the most dynamic in Los Angeles County.   The Small Business Incubator is a wonderful opportunity for entrepreneurs to get the support and guidance they need to jump-start their company,” said Mayor Laurene Weste.  “We are dedicated to being a place where companies of all sizes are supported and thrive and this is a prime example of our commitment to supporting business.”

Anyone interested in submitting a proposal for space at the Incubator is encouraged to attend a free information session on Thursday, October 2, 2014 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Old Town Newhall Library, located at 24500 Main Street.  Those interested in attending the session should submit their company name, a brief description of the company’s product or service, phone number, mailing address and the number of attendees to kmonterrosa@santa-clarita.com.

Proposals for participation in the Small Business Incubator Program are due to the City of Santa Clarita on Thursday, October 16, 2014 by 5:00 p.m.  To view the complete Request for Proposal and to download an Application Form, please visit: http://econdev.santa-clarita.com/santa-clarita-business-incubator.

In addition to traditional business start-up services, entrepreneurs will also benefit from the “Incubator Partners Program,” which provides access to pro-bono services, such as legal assistance and guidance from professionals like Pool & Shaffery Attorneys at Law.  Additional partners are being sought for the Incubator Partners Program and those interested in participating should contact the Economic Development Division for additional information.

For additional information about the Request for Proposal or the Small Business Incubator, please contact Karla Monterrosa with the City’s Economic Development Division at (661) 286-4017.