Save the date for the City of Ontario State of the City 2026, taking place on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 5:00 PM at the Ontario Convention Center. This year’s theme, Welcome to the Big Show, highlights the City’s significant progress in economic growth, innovation, and transformative initiatives that will shape Ontario for generations to come.

Registration opens soon. Sponsorship opportunities are currently available—visit OntarioSOC.com to learn more.

Local Buzz

AmPac Graduation

The City of Ontario recently celebrated the second cohort of the Entrepreneurship Program, offered in partnership with AmPac Business Capital. 

This free, 10-month program supports Ontario small business owners through mentoring, coaching, and focused business development sessions. Participants received guidance on strategic planning, capital preparation, and the tools needed to strengthen and grow their businesses. Graduates who completed the program were also eligible for a $1,000 grant to support their next steps

This cohort showed dedication and resilience throughout the program. Their progress reflects the strength of Ontario’s small business community, and the City looks forward to seeing their continued success.

Partner Emergency Response Forum

The City of Ontario Office of Emergency Management will host the City’s 1st Annual Partner Emergency Response Forum on February 5, 2026. This event will bring together partners who support the City’s Emergency Operations Plan and play key roles in preparedness and response efforts.

The forum will provide an overview of how City departments and partner agencies coordinate during emergencies, along with opportunities to network and strengthen relationships that support effective service to residents during critical events. To RSVP Click here.

Turf Rebate Program

Are you considering replacing your grass with a drought tolerant landscape? Ontario businesses can get up to $7 per square foot of turf replaced.

Please visit socalwatersmart.com for the application and more information about the rebate.

ACES Grand Opening

ACES has opened in in the City of Ontario at 765 N. Milliken Ave. ACES provides Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services, including center-based and home and community-based ABA, early intervention, social skills groups, school behavioral supports and training, and parent training and coaching.

As one of the longest-standing providers of ABA therapy, ACES serves individuals across the lifespan impacted by autism. The organization is recognized by the Aetna Institutes of Quality and holds CARF accreditation, reflecting its focus on individualized care and service quality.

Resources & Funding

California Competes Tax Credit

Shophand $5K Small Business Boost Grant

The Shophand $5K Small Business Boost Grant supports small business owners by pairing funding with hands-on technical and operational support. The program is designed for non-technical business owners seeking help with day-to-day challenges.

Each Award Includes:

• $2,500 in unrestricted cash

• $2,500 in Shophand support and services, which may include AI tools and automation, marketing and tech support, creative and media assistance, operations support, software setup, and one-on-one human support

Eligibility Requirements:

• Fewer than 50 employees

• Annual revenue under $5 million

• For-profit business

• Actively operating business

• Based in the United States

• Must follow Shophand on Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and Facebook

Preferred but not required: Prior use of a “Your Shophand” service during the current application cycle.

Training & Workshops

Your Roadmap to Online Success

California Shop Small offers a 7-week online program designed to help entrepreneurs and established businesses build foundational skills for launching or strengthening an online presence. The program provides step-by-step guidance on online business setup, operations, and marketing strategies.

Program Format:

• Main Training Sessions: Wednesdays, 1:30–3:00 p.m. (Zoom)

• Optional Hands-On Workshops: Fridays, 10:00–11:00 a.m.

Session Schedule:

• Jan 14: Introduction to Online Business

• Jan 21: Product Sourcing and Pricing

• Jan 28: Store Setup and Branding

• Feb 4: Payment, Shipping, and Inventory Management

• Feb 11: Marketplace Guidelines and Marketing Launch

• Feb 18: Review, Final Setup, and In-Person Photography

• Feb 25: Virtual Launch Party, Live Q&A, and Networking

Live attendees will receive the slide deck and a recording of the sessions.

IEWBC Business Success On Demand!

The Inland Empire Women’s Business Center (IEWBC) is offering an online training program for aspiring and current entrepreneurs. Participants will have one week to complete four self-paced online trainings designed to support business planning and development.

Training Topics Include:

• Clarifying your business idea

• Exploring your market and target audience

• Designing products and services

• Understanding legal requirements to start and operate a business

After completing the first class, participants will schedule a one-on-one appointment with a business counselor. The scheduling link will be provided by email.

Start Date: January 8, 2026
Registration Deadline: January 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM PST
Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)

Upcoming Events

Legacy Approach Foundation Resource Fair

Available Properties

For questions or comments, please contact the City of Ontario Economic Development Department at (909) 395-2005 or OntarioEDA@OntarioCA.gov.

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