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Oct
2024
ChicoSTART Awarded 2024-2025 Technical Assistance Program (TAP - Supports North State Underserved Businesses
October, 22, 2024 - Chico, CA: The Governor’s Office of Business (Go-BIZ) California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) has announced the 2024-2025 recipients of the California Small Business Technical Assistance Program (SB TAP, formerly named SB Technical Assistance Expansion Program). ChicoSTART is pleased to be one of those 100+ Technical Assistance Centers in California awarded for “support of our business consulting and training services in the area of underserved business groups, including women, minority, and veteran-owned businesses and businesses in low-wealth, rural, and disaster-impacted communities”. This funding granted to ChicoSTART will make an impact in the local North State region by supplying more tools and resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow and thrive in those local underserved business groups.
Aug
2024
ChicoSTART Launches 7th CA-GoBiz Accelerated By Partnership with City of Corning
August, 28 2024 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART announces the launch of its 7th Accelerated by Partnership with the City of Corning. Corning is located in Tehama County, just 1 of 17 designated CA Go-Biz Accelerated Inclusive Innovation Hub counties ChicoSTART is committed to serving by offering diverse entrepreneurs the opportunity to develop and grow their innovative ideas by bridging the connection to local networks and communities and increasing access to critical advising and training services.
Jul
2024
ChicoSTART Presents GrowTECH FEST and Announces Exclusive BOGO Launch Deal
July 11th, 2024 - Chico, CA: GrowTECH FEST 2024 announces an exclusive BOGO (Buy One Get One) ticket sale starting today July 11th! This limited-time offer allows attendees to purchase one ticket and receive a second one free. The GTF BOGO Sale runs through July 25, 2024 or until they sell out. GTF 2024 will take place Wednesday, November 6th, at the Big Room, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co in Chico, CA. Buy Tickets HERE!
Jun
2024
On Demand Virtual Entrepreneurship Toolkit Now Available in Spanish
June 26, 2024 - Chico, CA: June 26, 2024 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART is thrilled to announce that the On-Demand Virtual Entrepreneurship Toolkit Series is now available in Spanish! The Sacramento State Carlsen Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship originally presented this virtual series of workshops in English. It was designed to teach participants about building the foundation of a new enterprise. ChicoSTART partnered with the Carlsen Center to extend this valuable resource to the North State. As two CA Accelerated iHubs currently working together to achieve program goals in key industry sectors, translating resources from English to Spanish is an effort to enhance the North State’s diversity, equity, inclusion, and connectivity to other centers of innovation and economic game changers across the state.
Jun
2024
ChicoSTART Announces GrowTECH FEST 2024!
June 4, 2024 - Chico, CA: Get ready for another action packed entrepreneurial experience as ChicoSTART proudly presents GrowTECH FEST 2024 - the ONLY entrepreneurial and tech event North of Sacramento, coming to the Sierra Nevada Big Room on November 6th! In its 5th year, GrowTECH FEST is set to ignite the North State with Keynote Speaker Maëlle Gavet, former CEO of Techstars...
Mar
2024
ChicoSTART Empowering Startups + Small Businesses with 2024 Strategy and Innovation Workshop Series
Chico, CA - ChicoSTART, the lead hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in the North State, is thrilled to announce its upcoming Strategy and Innovation Spring Workshop Series. This series is designed to empower entrepreneurs, startups, small businesses with cutting-edge insights and strategies. The workshops will focus on leveraging AI, protecting your business from the latest fraud and scams and the 7 levels of business growth.
Jan
2024
ChicoSTART Embarks on 6th Accelerated by Partnership with Glenn Grows
January 16 , 2024 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART is renowned for its commitment to nurturing startups, providing entrepreneurial resources, and fostering innovation to rural communities through the CalOSBA Accelerate CA Inclusive Innovation Hub2 (iHub2), representing 20+ counties in Northern California.
ChicoSTART announces the embarking of its 6th Accelerated by Partnership with Glenn County based Business and Employment Center Glenn Grows. Glenn Grows “believes in creating opportunities, providing mentorship and delivering resources for the Glenn County workforce by connecting business communities and suitable working and economic spaces''.
Dec
2023
ChicoSTART Introduces Advancing Modoc as New Accelerated by Partner
December 6, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART is pleased to welcome Advancing Modoc to our Accelerated by ChicoSTART iHUB2 program. Advancing Modoc is located in Modoc County
which is one of the designated service areas ChicoSTART supports through the CalOSBA Accelerate CA Inclusive Innovation Hub2 (iHub2).
Nov
2023
ChicoSTART Awarded 2023-2024 Technical Assistance Program (TAP) Grant
November 15, 2023 – ChicoSTART is pleased to announce it is one of 40+ Technical Assistance Center Providers in California who have been allocated funding from the California Office of the Small Business Advocate. TAP Centers provide technical assistance to small business and entrepreneurs focused on women, minorities/people of color, veterans, low wealth, communities, rural communities, and disaster-impacted communities. The grant program runs October 1, 2023 - September 30, 2024.
Nov
2023
ChicoSTART Celebrates Global Entrepreneurship Week Chico
November 1, 2023 - Chico, CA: Entrepreneurs Thrive Here: ChicoSTART Celebrates Global Entrepreneurship Week November 13-19, 2023 – ChicoSTART will mark Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) specifically November 14-16 by hosting workshops plus a featured event with the Chico State College of Agriculture November 15th at the Chico State University Farm. The theme for #GEW2023 is "Entrepreneurs Thrive Here", with more than 1,000 activities planned across the country to put the nation's entrepreneurial and innovative spirit on full display.
Oct
2023
GrowTECH FEST 2023: A Resounding Success, Setting New Milestones for the North State
October 19, 2023 - Chico, CA: GrowTECH FEST 2023, an annual celebration of technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, has concluded its latest edition on a high note, leaving an indelible mark on the tech and startup ecosystem in the North State. It was hosted by ChicoSTART and powered by partner Build by Ferguson.
Oct
2023
ChicoSTART Mentioned in Morning AgClips - Chico State Precision AG Day/Women in AgTech
October 31, 2023 - Morning AgClips: Chico State Hosts 2nd Annual Precision Ag Day with added feature Women In Ag/Ag Tech Discussion.
Aug
2023
GrowTECH FEST Limited Offer: Early Bird Sale Through 8.31
August 9, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART presents growTECH FEST 2023 October 11th +
12th at the Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Big Room. Right now, event-goers have a limited time
to purchase Early Bird Tickets through August 31, 2023.
June
2023
ChicoSTART Presents GrowTECH FEST 2023 - Announces Exclusive Launch Sale
June 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART is pleased to announce GrowTECH FEST 2023 with an Exclusive Launch Sale beginning tomorrow, June 1, 2023 at 10 a.m. Attendees can expect 60% off regular GrowTECH ticket prices. The GTF Launch Sale runs through June 30, 2023.
July
2023
ChicoSTART Executive Director, Eva Shepherd-Nicoll featured on The Mark Haney Podcast: "Nurturing Entrepreneurship + Startup Success in California's North State"
ChicoSTART Executive Director Eva Shepherd-Nicoll took to the air July 19th to join the The Mark Haney Podcast to share her perspective on the vibrant energy of entrepreneurial spirit, and how it can shape the success of a startup. Eva’s work in the North State region of California involves providing vital one-on-one guidance to budding entrepreneurs.
July
2023
ChicoSTART Introduces Indian Valley Innovation Hub as New Accelerated By Partner
ChicoSTART is pleased to welcome Indian Valley Innovation Hub to our Accelerated by ChicoSTART iHUB2 program. The Indian Valley Innovation Hub is located in Plumas County which is one of the designated service areas ChicoSTART supports through the CalOSBA Innovation Hub2 (iHub2).
June2023
ChicoSTART on KPAY NEWS
June 23, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART Executive Director, Eva Shepherd- Nicoll joins the Morning News to talk about how ChicoSTART helps provide resources to budding entrepreneurs and new Accelerated California designation.
June2023
ChicoSTART Receives Round 1 Notice of Intent as an Accelerated California Inclusive Innovation Hub Designee
June 20, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART announces that they have been awarded a $1M grant for the renewal of the Accelerate California Inclusive Innovation Hub. ChicoSTART is currently one of 7 CA GO-Biz iHubs awarded this designation in round one, representing 20+ counties by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA).
May
2023
ChicoSTART Presents GrowTECH FEST 2023 - Exclusive Launch Sale June 1st
May 31, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART is pleased to announce growTECH FEST 2023 with an Exclusive Launch Sale beginning tomorrow, June 1, 2023 at 10 a.m. Attendees can expect 60% off regular GrowTECH ticket prices. The GTF Launch Sale runs through June 30, 2023.
May
2023
Women in Business
Helping Women in Business - Upgraded Living May 2023
May 2023 - Chico, CA: It is often said that starting a business is one of the biggest risks someone can take. Giving up the security of employment and venturing out on your own is no easy task, and this issue of
Upgraded Living is filled with women who have done it. As most are likely to admit, finding success is much easier when you have support, and the team at ChicoStart offers just that. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, ChicoStart has a laundry list of over 300 entrepreneurial success stories it is rightfully proud of, and they’re looking forward to the next ten years of adding to it
May 2023
CHICOSTART Partners with BlueTechValley to Focus on Water, Energy, and Agtech in the North State
May 11, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART is pleased to announce their partnership with BlueTechValley, a California Energy Commission (CEC) initiative awarded to CSU, Fresno. CSU Fresno is deploying this with (6) other partners including Chicostart.
May 2023
CHICOSTART Awarded SBDC Tech Affilate - A Win for Tech Industry Entrepreneurs
May 2, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART was awarded the Tech Affiliate Program funding through the Northern Small Business Development Center. The funding is provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration and California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
Mar 2023
CHICOSTART Signs MOU with Monterey Bay DART to Increase Innovation Pipelines for the North State
March 28, 2023 - Chico, CA: Chicostart is pleased to bring another valuable resource to the North State for entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses interested in drone, automation and robotics technology, with a recently signed collaboration Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Monterey Bay Drone, Automation and Robotics Technology (DART) initiative.
Mar 2023
CHICOSTART + GROWTECH to Host Strategy & Innovation Workshops in April - Registration is Open!
Chico, CA - March 21, 2023: Registration is Open! Chicostart & growTECH have planned a 2023 Strategic and Innovative Workshop Series for the local business community and the North State. This 2-day event will take place April 18th and 19th at Stoble Workplace incorporating 5 diverse topics. These sessions will be focused on design thinking for business teams, leadership and culture in the workplace, startups and business banking, and more. Chicostart and growTECH expect these key business workshops will attract attendees locally and from around the North State.
Mar 2023
CHICOSTART Finds Additional Capitol Resource for Underserved Small Businesses in the North State
Chico, CA - March 14, 2023: Chicostart continues to access valuable resources to support the entrepreneurial community, one such resource is Advantage Capital, who works with the New Markets Tax Credit Program to provide flexible business-friendly financing to companies in underserved areas.
Jan 2023
CHICOSTART Awarded EDA Build to Scale Venture Challenge with CSU, Fresno & CLEANSTART
CHICO, CA - January, 26, 2023: Chicostart, is honored to announce it was awarded a Build to Scale funding level of the 2022 Venture Challenge through the U.S. Economic Development Association Grant (EDA). The intent of the Build to Scale Program is to “build regional economies through scalable startups”. The Venture Challenge awards grants to organizations that enable startups and support regions in overcoming barriers that prevent would-be innovators from accessing these opportunities.
Jan 2023
CHICOSTART Announces New Amazon Web Services (AWS) Resources for Entrepreneurs & Startups
Chico, CA - January 19, 2023: Chicostart is thrilled to let the North State know they are now an Amazon Web Services (AWS Activate) Provider. Chicostart has partnered with AWS Activate to provide Activate benefits to our affiliated startups that include free AWS credits, technical support, training, resources, and more. These exclusive benefits are designed to help startups quickly get started on AWS and grow their business.
DEC 2022
CHICOSTART Bridges New IHUB2 Partnership with Fourthwave Accelerator
Chico, CA - December 13, 2022: Chicostart is proud to announce FourthWave as a new iHUB2 (Go-Biz Innovation Hub) partner. FourthWave, located in the Sacramento region, is a non-profit accelerator for women-led businesses. They dedicate an equal effort to leadership awareness and coaching, the development of sound startup business fundamentals and a preparedness for external funding. FourthWave is open to technology companies with at least one female-identified founder. This partnership will be a valuable part of Chicostart’s reach to those female entrepreneurs underserved in the 20+ regions represented in its iHUB2 designation.
NOV 2022
CHICOSTART Awarded Technical Assistance Program Grant from CalOSBA
Chico, CA - November 30, 2022: The Governor’s Office of Business (Go-BIZ) California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) has announced grant awards to recipients of the California Small Business Technical Assistance Program (SB TAP, formerly named SB Technical Assistance Expansion Program). Chicostart is pleased to announce that we are 1 of 100+ Technical Assistance Centers in California awarded...
NOV 2022
CHICOSTART Community Organizer for Global Entrepreneurship Week: November 14-20, 2022
Chico, CA - NOVEMBER 10, 2022: Chicostart will mark Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) on November 14-20 by hosting workshops for entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses throughout the North State. Chicostart has also partnered their local iHUB2 (Inclusive Innovation Hub Program) to bring visibility to their small business webinars during GEW.
Oct 2022
CHICOSTART & California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Provide DEI Resources for North State Entrepreneurs
Chico, CA: California Inclusive Innovation Hub 2 (iHUB2) partner, California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (CAHCC), is providing Chicostart with translation services for North State entrepreneurs who need access to tools and resources in Spanish.
Oct 2022
CHICOSTART Brings the North State Together for a Successful GrowTECH Fest 2022
Chico, CA: Wednesday, October 5th growTECH FEST 2022 presented by Chicostart brought over 200 North State attendees to the Big Room at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. growTECH FEST is the ONLY entrepreneurial tech conference north of Sacramento bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, startups, innovators, community leaders and students to engage in 2 days of innovation, inspiration, education and networking.
Aug
2022
GROWTECH Fest Green Week Pre-Labor Day Sale Begins 8.26.2022
AUGUST 24, 2022 - Chico, CA: A special growTECH FEST 2022 “Green Week” Pre-Labor Day Sale starts THIS Friday, August 26th! growTECH FEST presented by Chicostart and Powered by Build with Ferguson, will take place Wednesday, October 5th at the Big Room, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., and October 6th at Stoble Workplace, Downtown Chico.
Aug
2022
CHICOSTART North State iHUB2 Brings in UC Davis as Ag Innovation Partner
August 18, 2022 - CHICO, CA: Chicostart and UC Davis are extending agriculture and natural resources to the Northern California Region through their iHub2 partner designation. These resources are extended through the UC Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and The Vine. This partnership is another valuable component that Chicostarts’ North State iHub2 brings to bear to fill this particular gap in the North State entrepreneurial ecosystem.
July
2022
Early Bird Tickets On Sale Now for GrowTECH Fest 2022
July 26, 2022 - CHICO, CA: Early Bird Tickets are on sale for growTECH FEST 2022! growTECH FEST presented by Chicostart and Powered by Build with Ferguson, will take place Wednesday, October 5th at the Big Room, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. and October 6th at Stoble Workplace, Downtown Chico. growTECH FEST is the largest and only entrepreneurial conference north of Sacramento, CA. BUY TICKETS HERE.
June
2022
CHICOSTART Announces GrowTECH Fest 2022
JUNE 9, 2022 - growTECH FEST 2022 presented by Chicostart will take place Wednesday, October 5th at the Big Room, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. and October 6th at Stoble Workplace. growTECH FEST is an entrepreneur focused regional conference, leveraging the growTECH industry sector led partnership, to celebrate and elevate the entrepreneurial and tech culture that is fresh, pervasive and on the rise in the North State.
June
2022
CHICOSTART & Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce to Launch "RIDGESTART"
JUNE 1, 2022 - Chicostart and the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce the launch of the first phase of RIDGESTART - Powered by Chicostart. RIDGESTART will serve the diverse business community of Paradise, Magalia and the surrounding Ridge footprint.
MAY
2022
CHICOSTART Announces Next iHUB2 Partnership with Port Labs
May 18, 2022 - Chicostart is excited to announce the next iHUB2 partnership with Port Labs, located in Oakland, Ca. They provide key resources for startups working to develop new products, a crucial missing piece to the North State entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Port Labs specializes in support for companies working in physical product development, including consumer and industrial goods, and food tech, with expertise in acceleration, design and prototyping.
MAY
2022
CHICOSTART & Butte College Create Space to Extend Technology Access to the North State
May 3, 2022 - Chicostart and the Butte College Create Space Maker Lab have partnered to provide added advanced technology resources to Chicostart, growTECH and Stoble Workplace, allowing equitable access to entrepreneurs, small and medium business, and students. This partnership will also be beneficial in creating a more solidified relationship for Chicostarts' entrepreneurial community locally as its reach expands through the North State.
APR.
2022
CHICOSTART Announces iHUB2 Designation Concepts & Partners
APRIL 21, 2022 - Chico, CA: The California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) recently announced that Chicostart is 1 of 10 grant recipients for the Inclusive Innovation Hubs (iHub2) program. Chicostart’s designation covers over 20 counties in Northern California.
The Chicostart iHUB 2 designation concepts include, but are not limited to...
APR.
2022
CHICOSTART Awarded iHUB2 Designation from CalOSBA
APRIL 7, 2022 - Chico, CA: The California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) recently announced that Chicostart is 1 of 10 grant recipients for the Inclusive Innovation Hubs (iHub2) program. Chicostart’s designation covers over 20 counties in Northern California.
Feb.
2022
CHICOSTART & BCAC.TV Expand Media Service Tools for Local Businesses
February 15, 2022 - Chico, CA: CHICOSTART has come together with the Butte Community Access Center (BCAC.TV) partnered to provide media membership that includes additional media resources to help business and entrepreneurs start, grow and thrive. These resources and benefits will be accessible to Chicostart and growTECH members, and the Stoble Workplace member community. Access to these amenities will be coordinated through Chicostart.
This key partnership provides...
Feb.
2022
CHICOSTART & Butte County Library Join Forces in New Reach Program
February 1, 2022 - Chico, CA: CHICOSTART has partnered with the new Butte County Library REACH Program (Reconnect, Engage, Adults, Creating, Hope). The REACH program provides economic and workforce development resources at Butte County Libraries.
In order to support the Butte County REACH Program and the needs of local jobseekers, small business owners and entrepreneurs, Chicostart will provide access to their Grow with Google On-Line Library. In addition, Chicostart will offer in person Grow With Google Workshops once a month at the Butte County Library n Chico, CA...
Jan.
2022
CHICOSTART Announces New Partnership with Stoble Workplace
January 11, 2022 - Chico, CA: CHICOSTART has partnered with local Chico business Stoble Workplace to
expand its reach to the small business, start ups and entrepreneurial community. Both
partners are located in downtown Chico.
Chicostart supports and enriches Northern California’s Entrepreneurial-Tech Ecosystem and
provides startups and small businesses the resources they need to succeed. Stoble
Workplace is a cafe and co-working space in downtown Chico offering hot desks, private
offices, dedicated desks, and community memberships...
July
2023
ChicoSTART Introduces Indian Valley Innovation Hub as New Accelerated By Partner
ChicoSTART is pleased to welcome Indian Valley Innovation Hub to our Accelerated by ChicoSTART iHUB2 program. The Indian Valley Innovation Hub is located in Plumas County which is one of the designated service areas ChicoSTART supports through the CalOSBA Innovation Hub2 (iHub2).
June2023
ChicoSTART on KPAY NEWS
June 23, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART Executive Director, Eva Shepherd- Nicoll joins the Morning News to talk about how we help provide resources to budding entrepreneurs and new Accelerated California designation.
June2023
ChicoSTART Receives Round 1 Notice of Intent as an Accelerated California Inclusive Innovation Hub Designee
June 20, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART announces that they have been awarded a $1M grant for the renewal of the Accelerate California Inclusive Innovation Hub. ChicoSTART is currently one of 7 CA GO-Biz iHubs awarded this designation in round one, representing 20+ counties by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA).
May
2023
ChicoSTART Presents GrowTECH FEST 2023 - Exclusive Launch Sale June 1st
May 31, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART is pleased to announce growTECH FEST 2023 with an Exclusive Launch Sale beginning tomorrow, June 1, 2023 at 10 a.m. Attendees can expect 60% off regular GrowTECH ticket prices. The GTF Launch Sale runs through June 30, 2023.
May
2023
Women in Business
Helping Women in Business - Upgraded Living May 2023
May 2023 - Chico, CA: It is often said that starting a business is one of the biggest risks someone can take. Giving up the security of employment and venturing out on your own is no easy task, and this issue of
Upgraded Living is filled with women who have done it. As most are likely to admit, finding success is much easier when you have support, and the team at ChicoStart offers just that. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, ChicoStart has a laundry list of over 300 entrepreneurial success stories it is rightfully proud of, and they’re looking forward to the next ten years of adding to it
May 2023
CHICOSTART Partners with BlueTechValley to Focus on Water, Energy, and Agtech in the North State
May 11, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART is pleased to announce their partnership with BlueTechValley, a California Energy Commission (CEC) initiative awarded to CSU, Fresno. CSU Fresno is deploying this with (6) other partners including Chicostart.
May 2023
CHICOSTART Awarded SBDC Tech Affilate - A Win for Tech Industry Entrepreneurs
May 2, 2023 - Chico, CA: ChicoSTART was awarded the Tech Affiliate Program funding through the Northern Small Business Development Center. The funding is provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration and California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
Mar 2023
CHICOSTART Signs MOU with Monterey Bay DART to Increase Innovation Pipelines for the North State
March 28, 2023 - Chico, CA: Chicostart is pleased to bring another valuable resource to the North State for entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses interested in drone, automation and robotics technology, with a recently signed collaboration Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Monterey Bay Drone, Automation and Robotics Technology (DART) initiative.
Mar 2023
CHICOSTART + GROWTECH to Host Strategy & Innovation Workshops in April - Registration is Open!
Chico, CA - March 21, 2023: Registration is Open! Chicostart & growTECH have planned a 2023 Strategic and Innovative Workshop Series for the local business community and the North State. This 2-day event will take place April 18th and 19th at Stoble Workplace incorporating 5 diverse topics. These sessions will be focused on design thinking for business teams, leadership and culture in the workplace, startups and business banking, and more. Chicostart and growTECH expect these key business workshops will attract attendees locally and from around the North State.
Mar 2023
CHICOSTART Finds Additional Capitol Resource for Underserved Small Businesses in the North State
Chico, CA - March 14, 2023: Chicostart continues to access valuable resources to support the entrepreneurial community, one such resource is Advantage Capital, who works with the New Markets Tax Credit Program to provide flexible business-friendly financing to companies in underserved areas.
Jan 2023
CHICOSTART Awarded EDA Build to Scale Venture Challenge with CSU, Fresno & CLEANSTART
CHICO, CA - January, 26, 2023: Chicostart, is honored to announce it was awarded a Build to Scale funding level of the 2022 Venture Challenge through the U.S. Economic Development Association Grant (EDA). The intent of the Build to Scale Program is to “build regional economies through scalable startups”. The Venture Challenge awards grants to organizations that enable startups and support regions in overcoming barriers that prevent would-be innovators from accessing these opportunities.
Jan 2023
CHICOSTART Announces New Amazon Web Services (AWS) Resources for Entrepreneurs & Startups
Chico, CA - January 19, 2023: Chicostart is thrilled to let the North State know they are now an Amazon Web Services (AWS Activate) Provider. Chicostart has partnered with AWS Activate to provide Activate benefits to our affiliated startups that include free AWS credits, technical support, training, resources, and more. These exclusive benefits are designed to help startups quickly get started on AWS and grow their business.
DEC 2022
CHICOSTART Bridges New IHUB2 Partnership with Fourthwave Accelerator
Chico, CA - December 13, 2022: Chicostart is proud to announce FourthWave as a new iHUB2 (Go-Biz Innovation Hub) partner. FourthWave, located in the Sacramento region, is a non-profit accelerator for women-led businesses. They dedicate an equal effort to leadership awareness and coaching, the development of sound startup business fundamentals and a preparedness for external funding. FourthWave is open to technology companies with at least one female-identified founder. This partnership will be a valuable part of Chicostart’s reach to those female entrepreneurs underserved in the 20+ regions represented in its iHUB2 designation.
NOV 2022
CHICOSTART Awarded Technical Assistance Program Grant from CalOSBA
Chico, CA - November 30, 2022: The Governor’s Office of Business (Go-BIZ) California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) has announced grant awards to recipients of the California Small Business Technical Assistance Program (SB TAP, formerly named SB Technical Assistance Expansion Program). Chicostart is pleased to announce that we are 1 of 100+ Technical Assistance Centers in California awarded...
NOV 2022
CHICOSTART Community Organizer for Global Entrepreneurship Week: November 14-20, 2022
Chico, CA - NOVEMBER 10, 2022: Chicostart will mark Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) on November 14-20 by hosting workshops for entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses throughout the North State. Chicostart has also partnered their local iHUB2 (Inclusive Innovation Hub Program) to bring visibility to their small business webinars during GEW.
Oct 2022
CHICOSTART & California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Provide DEI Resources for North State Entrepreneurs
Chico, CA: California Inclusive Innovation Hub 2 (iHUB2) partner, California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (CAHCC), is providing Chicostart with translation services for North State entrepreneurs who need access to tools and resources in Spanish.
Oct 2022
CHICOSTART Brings the North State Together for a Successful GrowTECH Fest 2022
Chico, CA: Wednesday, October 5th growTECH FEST 2022 presented by Chicostart brought over 200 North State attendees to the Big Room at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. growTECH FEST is the ONLY entrepreneurial tech conference north of Sacramento bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, startups, innovators, community leaders and students to engage in 2 days of innovation, inspiration, education and networking.
Aug
2022
GROWTECH Fest Green Week Pre-Labor Day Sale Begins 8.26.2022
AUGUST 24, 2022 - Chico, CA: A special growTECH FEST 2022 “Green Week” Pre-Labor Day Sale starts THIS Friday, August 26th! growTECH FEST presented by Chicostart and Powered by Build with Ferguson, will take place Wednesday, October 5th at the Big Room, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., and October 6th at Stoble Workplace, Downtown Chico.
Aug
2022
CHICOSTART North State iHUB2 Brings in UC Davis as Ag Innovation Partner
August 18, 2022 - CHICO, CA: Chicostart and UC Davis are extending agriculture and natural resources to the Northern California Region through their iHub2 partner designation. These resources are extended through the UC Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and The Vine. This partnership is another valuable component that Chicostarts’ North State iHub2 brings to bear to fill this particular gap in the North State entrepreneurial ecosystem.
July
2022
Early Bird Tickets On Sale Now for GrowTECH Fest 2022
July 26, 2022 - CHICO, CA: Early Bird Tickets are on sale for growTECH FEST 2022! growTECH FEST presented by Chicostart and Powered by Build with Ferguson, will take place Wednesday, October 5th at the Big Room, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. and October 6th at Stoble Workplace, Downtown Chico. growTECH FEST is the largest and only entrepreneurial conference north of Sacramento, CA. BUY TICKETS HERE.
June
2022
CHICOSTART Announces GrowTECH Fest 2022
JUNE 9, 2022 - growTECH FEST 2022 presented by Chicostart will take place Wednesday, October 5th at the Big Room, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. and October 6th at Stoble Workplace. growTECH FEST is an entrepreneur focused regional conference, leveraging the growTECH industry sector led partnership, to celebrate and elevate the entrepreneurial and tech culture that is fresh, pervasive and on the rise in the North State.
June
2022
CHICOSTART & Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce to Launch "RIDGESTART"
JUNE 1, 2022 - Chicostart and the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce the launch of the first phase of RIDGESTART - Powered by Chicostart. RIDGESTART will serve the diverse business community of Paradise, Magalia and the surrounding Ridge footprint.
MAY
2022
CHICOSTART Announces Next iHUB2 Partnership with Port Labs
May 18, 2022 - Chicostart is excited to announce the next iHUB2 partnership with Port Labs, located in Oakland, Ca. They provide key resources for startups working to develop new products, a crucial missing piece to the North State entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Port Labs specializes in support for companies working in physical product development, including consumer and industrial goods, and food tech, with expertise in acceleration, design and prototyping.
MAY
2022
CHICOSTART & Butte College Create Space to Extend Technology Access to the North State
May 3, 2022 - Chicostart and the Butte College Create Space Maker Lab have partnered to provide added advanced technology resources to Chicostart, growTECH and Stoble Workplace, allowing equitable access to entrepreneurs, small and medium business, and students. This partnership will also be beneficial in creating a more solidified relationship for Chicostarts' entrepreneurial community locally as its reach expands through the North State.
APR.
2022
CHICOSTART Announces iHUB2 Designation Concepts & Partners
APRIL 21, 2022 - Chico, CA: The California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) recently announced that Chicostart is 1 of 10 grant recipients for the Inclusive Innovation Hubs (iHub2) program. Chicostart’s designation covers over 20 counties in Northern California.
The Chicostart iHUB 2 designation concepts include, but are not limited to...
APR.
2022
CHICOSTART Awarded iHUB2 Designation from CalOSBA
APRIL 7, 2022 - Chico, CA: The California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) recently announced that Chicostart is 1 of 10 grant recipients for the Inclusive Innovation Hubs (iHub2) program. Chicostart’s designation covers over 20 counties in Northern California.
Feb.
2022
CHICOSTART & BCAC.TV Expand Media Service Tools for Local Businesses
February 15, 2022 - Chico, CA: CHICOSTART has come together with the Butte Community Access Center (BCAC.TV) partnered to provide media membership that includes additional media resources to help business and entrepreneurs start, grow and thrive. These resources and benefits will be accessible to Chicostart and growTECH members, and the Stoble Workplace member community. Access to these amenities will be coordinated through Chicostart.
This key partnership provides...
Feb.
2022
CHICOSTART & Butte County Library Join Forces in New Reach Program
February 1, 2022 - Chico, CA: CHICOSTART has partnered with the new Butte County Library REACH Program (Reconnect, Engage, Adults, Creating, Hope). The REACH program provides economic and workforce development resources at Butte County Libraries.
In order to support the Butte County REACH Program and the needs of local jobseekers, small business owners and entrepreneurs, Chicostart will provide access to their Grow with Google On-Line Library. In addition, Chicostart will offer in person Grow With Google Workshops once a month at the Butte County Library n Chico, CA...
Jan.
2022
CHICOSTART Announces New Partnership with Stoble Workplace
January 11, 2022 - Chico, CA: CHICOSTART has partnered with local Chico business Stoble Workplace to
expand its reach to the small business, start ups and entrepreneurial community. Both
partners are located in downtown Chico.
Chicostart supports and enriches Northern California’s Entrepreneurial-Tech Ecosystem and
provides startups and small businesses the resources they need to succeed. Stoble
Workplace is a cafe and co-working space in downtown Chico offering hot desks, private
offices, dedicated desks, and community memberships...
Jan.
2022
CHICOSTART & MC FIBER SOLUTIONS to Bring Broadband Fiber Installer (BFI) Training Course
January 4, 2022 - Chico, CA: CHICOSTART has partnered with local Chico business MC FIBER SOLUTIONS to bring a Broadband Fiber Installer(BFI) training course January 18-20, 2022 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. The completion of this 3-day training course results in a Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) Broadband Fiber Installer Certification...
Nov.
2021
CHICOSTART Announces New OPENGRANTS.IO Portal
Tuesday, November 2, 2021 - Chico, CA: Chicostart is pleased to announce they have
access to a grant platform tool called OPENGRANTS.IO. The platform is currently FREE to the
business community through Chicostart...
OpenGrants.io is a single platform approach providing a grant search engine and marketplace
of independent grant consultants and is self-titled “Netflix” of grants”. This tool can help
businesses find grants in line with your interests and needs based on your profile. This portal
can help businesses also find an expert to help them search, apply for, and manage their grant.
June
2021
Xytogen and Eva Shepherd on Stem Cell Research
John Aylworth and David Stachura, "began working together on a product for lung inflammation, a major cause of COVID-19. He and his team created a U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved product which can be used similar to that of an inhaler."
"Eva Shepherd, with the Center of Entrepreneurship at Chico State, worked with Aylworth and said that there is a roughly $10 million opening in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act."
Chico local attempting to use stem calls to treat COVID-19 through inhalant
Justin Couchot
Nov
2020
Chicostart Partners With Butte College
"Butte students who are interested may use the Chicostart shared office space for free at their convenience between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students can benefit from engaging tech and entrepreneurial events, high-speed internet, large and small conference rooms, a kitchen, lounge areas, and whiteboards at their disposal."
Beneficial Partnering Created With Butte College, Chicostart
Laura Urseny
Feb
2020
Eva Shepherd- Nicoll named Executive Director
"Her face and expertise have been evident at Chicostart for nearly two years, but now Eva Shepherd-Nicoll has been named executive director of the entrepreneurial program. She succeeds managing director Wendy Porter, who is still with the program."
Small changes noted at Chicostart
Laura Urseny
Sept
2019
Article on planning of growTECH Fest
"It's being heralded as the first-ever growTECH Fest, attracting tech companies, investors and guests from around the country. Co-organizer, Wendy Porter of Chicostart calls it, 'The biggest event for startups, investors, entrepreneurs, techies, students, educators, business owners and community leaders.'"
Entrepreneurs, investors flock to Chico tech event
Laura Urseny
Sept
2019
CSUC Center for Entrepreneurship and Chicostart
"The relationship between the Center for Entrepreneurship and Chicostart is a good example of how student entrepreneurs can mature to the point where they can expand the workforce and add to the local economy."
Chico entrepreneurship center launches new year
Laura Urseny
Sept
2019
Manufacturing Event in Chico
"Transfer Flow will continue with its tradition of an annual open house, during which they'll hope for loads of visitors and lots of questions. Visitors will see how domestic steel is made into fuel tank systems that are sold throughout the world... Understanding manufacturing has gotten a little easier with the addition of the Grow Manufacturing Expo hosted by growTECH and California State University, Chico every October."
Chico manufacturing event invites the public inside
Laura Urseny
July
2019
Chicostart and growTECH member presenting at DEF CON
"Thousands of attendees will be heading to DEF CON 27 in Las Vegas next month, and among the speakers they can choose to hear is Edward Miro of Chico. Miro, whose specialty is cybersecurity, will be speaking the first day of this nationally known hackers conference... Tech analyst Wendy Porter sees Miro as a frequent volunteer at growTECH and Chicostart."
Chicoan to speak at DEF CON on cybersecurity
Laura Urseny
Jan
2019
Chicostart in Chico ER
"At a time when small businesses need all the help they can get, Eva Shepherd isn’t sure they are thinking “Chicostart.”Businesses may think that only entrepreneurs fit into the incubator, but the weeks under the shelter-in-place have shown the center’s ability to channel resilience into other business arenas."
Chicostart: More for businesses than just getting started
Laura Urseny
Jan
2019
Chicostart in Chico News & Review
"After the Camp Fire ignited, Chicostart knew it had to open its doors as soon as possible, says Director Wendy Porter. Whether it was to offer a space in which to connect with one another or to wifi, transition their phone lines or get some work done amid the chaos, entrepreneurs found they could turn to the business incubator to regroup."
Ashiah Scharaga
Nov
2018
Chicostart in Redding News
"A list of business members who have extra room to offer is being compiled, along with discussion of potential discounted rates for Paradise business owners that need to move into Chicostart long-term... The Paradise Water Department will be operating from Chicostart’s location inside Chico City Hall"
Finding long-term housing for Camp Fire refugees on the drawing board in Chico & Paradise
Michele Chandler
Feb
2017
Chicostart in Chico News & Review
"An opportunity for entrepreneurs to gain momentum is the simple idea behind Chicostart's Startup Weekend. It's basically boot camp with entrepreneurs, mentors and local experts coming together to give good ideas a foothold. This will be the second Startup Weekend hosted by Chicostart, a locally created business incubator."
Startups invited to Chico business boot camp
Laura Urseny
April
2016
Startup Weekend Featured in ChicoER
Read about our hugely successful Startup Weekend and learn more about the winners!
BizBits: Here Comes a Foodie Alert
The Associated Press
Jan
2016
Chicostart Featured in FORBES
Pretty exciting to have Chicostart mentioned in the Jan 2016 edition of Forbes magazine!
Why The ‘Wrong’ Location Can Be A Startup’s Hidden Strength
George Anders
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