Small businesses are the heart of Fresno's economy. But not everyone has an equal shot. Women and minority entrepreneurs face real barriers when it comes to starting a business, growing it, and building lasting wealth. Betting Big on Small Business is committed to changing that by investing in the people who’ve been left out for too long—by offering hands-on support, funding, and other tools they need to succeed.

Agriculture is a big part of Fresno's economy, but currently it does not produce enough high-wage, quality jobs. Too often, the technology and innovation needed to grow food sustainably is invented outside the region, meaning our communities miss out on higher paying jobs. The Farms, Food, Future (F3) Initiative is changing that by putting people at the heart of the innovation and technology needed to grow food sustainably.

Fresno’s Impact Economy is helping employers of all sizes lead with equity by showing how shifts in policies, like increasing wages or improving job quality, can transform lives and strengthen Fresno’s economy. Through tools like the Employer Scorecard, the initiative is promoting policies that improve the lives of workers within existing businesses and those locating to Fresno in the future.

One of Fresno’s economic opportunities is right here at home: our regional airports. They're an asset for residents looking for great jobs, especially in aviation, where becoming a commercial pilot is a high-paying career with growing demand. Yet only 3% of pilots are people of color, and even fewer are women. Next Gen Aviation is changing that by training the next generation of diverse pilots.

Wealth Creation creates pathways for Fresno families to build wealth and move from financial hardship to long-term prosperity. Through resident training and policy advocacy for car ownership, credit and banking, homeownership, community investment trusts, and universal basic income, Wealth Creation helps set up Fresnans for lasting financial health.