Wells Fargo has awarded a $300,000 grant to the California Finance Consortium, or CFC, to enhance small business technical assistance and lending services across 13 Northern California counties.

The announcement on the funding said, “This funding underscores Wells Fargo’s commitment to empowering local communities and fostering economic growth by supporting small businesses.”

The targeted counties include Butte, Del Norte, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Mendocino, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity and Yuba.

CFC will deploy these services through its regional partners: 3CORE, North Edge (formerly Arcata Economic Development Corp.), Superior California Economic Development Inc. and Yuba-Sutter Economic Development Corp.

Key benefits of the grant include:

Enhanced technical assistance: Small businesses will receive comprehensive support in developing robust business plans, financial projections, and operational strategies to ensure sustainability and growth.

Increased lending capacity: The grant will bolster lending capabilities, providing more small businesses with access to necessary capital.

Regional economic growth: By supporting small businesses, the grant will help stimulate job creation and economic development within the 13 counties.

"We are thrilled to partner with Wells Fargo Bank N.A. to support the entrepreneurial spirit of Northern California," said Brynda Stranix, president of California Finance Consortium. "This grant will significantly enhance our ability to provide small businesses with the tools and resources they need to thrive, ultimately contributing to the economic vitality of our communities. Our collaboration with 3CORE, North Edge, Superior California Economic Development, and Yuba-Sutter Economic Development Corp. will ensure these services are effectively delivered throughout the region."

This grant builds on Wells Fargo’s commitment to small business growth and the recent success of its Open for Business Fund, a national small business recovery effort.

New economic impact data shows that effort helped small business owners keep or sustain roughly 461,000 jobs nationwide, and technical assistance played a key role in propelling small businesses forward.

“We recognize the crucial role small businesses play in driving economic growth and creating jobs,” said Kären Woodruff, senior vice president, community relations, Wells Fargo. “Our support of the California Finance Corporation is a testament to our commitment to helping small businesses succeed and our dedication to strengthening the economic fabric of Northern California.”