Out of the West

West Company wants to open a dialogue with Mendocino County entrepreneurs. For our part, we propose to bring forward information about what other rural American communities are doing to boost their economies. Several different sources tell us that 2/3 of the jobs created since 1990 were created by small and micro entrepreneurs. That is definitely true in Mendocino County. And yes, these are hard times. But there is good news as well. The Obama Administration specifically includes investment in small and microbusiness in its rural agenda. More on that as we go.

Then, we want to hear from you about your specific needs during this recession and looking into the future beyond the recession. What kinds of tools and strategies could help build and if you choose, grow your business?

We look forward to hearing what you are doing to ‘green’ your business. Let’s discuss what ‘green’ means anyway. At the May 5, 2009 North Coast Green Opportunities Conference in Ukiah, the concept of sustainable was a strong candidate for what we are talking about when we talk about green. Throughout the day, discussions moved from the challenges Californians face to opportunities for Mendocino County entrepreneurs to create solutions to those challenges – like food and energy security and stewardship of natural systems.

Speakers illustrated current consumption of energy, the need to achieve energy security and the mandate of the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 to reduce 1990 carbon emissions by 80% in 2050. Attendees heard about the potential to implement municipal clean energy programs under California AB 811. That program is not in Mendocino County yet, but it could be and it would finance energy upgrades through a loan to be paid back over 10-20 years via property tax bills. Further financing is now available through President Obama’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, commonly known as the Stimulus Bill. Additional, financial and technical resources are available through the State of California. West Company encourages you to research these resources at www.RECOVERY.gov and www.Recovery.ca.gov. Maybe there is something there for your business.

So let’s get going. Let’s share the good ideas about building sustainable businesses and then please tell West Company what specific needs you have right now during this recession.