A Helping Hand
for Your Business
Starting and running a business can be complicated. Sometimes you need to ask questions, learn more, or get help. We've assembled a collection of resources to help you get started and keep your business running smoothly.
Programs
Local and Regional Programs and Resources
Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce
The Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce has been conducting successful business programs and promoting business in the valley for more than four decades.
A multi-disciplined organization, the Chamber membership roster includes representatives from all sectors of the business community. Chamber members play an active role in community events, programs and restoration efforts through a variety of committees.
Riverside County Workforce Development Center (WDC)
The WDC assists businesses and individuals with a variety of employment and job training services. The main office is based in Riverside, but there are several satellite locations throughout the County.
Riverside County Economic Development Agency
The Riverside County Economic Development Agency offers free workforce training and recruitment services. Several programs are also available to assist your employees with purchasing or financing a home.
Economic Development Coalition (EDC)
Founded in 1991, the Economic Development Coalition is a private/public partnership that promotes Southwest California regional economic development through business retention and development, job opportunities, and related economic growth. The EDC is dedicated to expanding the competitive position of the regional businesses in a global economy.
Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
The Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is the region's premier provider of business consulting and training services. The SBDC delivers quality consulting, instructive and relevant training and complete resources to over 5,000 business prospects every year.
Service Core of Retired Executives (SCORE)
SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and helping small businesses start, grow, and succeed nationwide. SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and has been mentoring small business owners for more than forty years.
State Programs and Resources
California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA)
The California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) supports economic growth by providing resources and support to the state's 4.1 million small businesses, including non-profits and startups.
California State Board of Equalization
The Board of Equalization administers California's sales and use, fuel, alcohol, tobacco, and other taxes and collects fees that fund specific state programs and plays a significant role in California property tax assessment and administration.
California Employment Development Department
California's Employment Development Department (EDD) connects millions of job seekers and employers in an effort to build the economy of the Golden State.
Small Business Loan Guarantee Program
Small Business Loan Guarantee Program allows a business to not only acquire a loan it could not otherwise obtain, but also to establish a favorable credit history with a lender so that the business may obtain future financing on its own.
National Resources and Programs
United States Small Business Administration
U.S. Small Business Administration offers a wide range of services and programs for small businesses, as well as links to other government agencies. This includes offering loans and grants for small businesses.
Real Estate Certificate Program
The Lake Elsinore LEADERS Certificate Program is a new program designed to educate realtors on the operations and projects in the City of Lake Elsinore to help you and your clients understand the development process and the benefits and opportunities in Lake Elsinore.
About the Program
This program is now open to real estate professionals who work, sell and conduct business in Lake Elsinore or the Southwest Riverside County Region. Hosted by Lake Elsinore’s Economic Development Department, the newly created LEADERS Certificate Program is a part of the City’s B3 Program (Building Better Businesses) and includes presentations from a variety of City departments, providing information for the real estate community regarding everything they need to know about Lake Elsinore, its partners, City departments and what projects are currently in development. The Program will help Brokers to better market and close escrow on quality housing and commercial (retail, office and industrial) opportunities in Lake Elsinore. Information provided includes updates on projects, processes, programs, amenities, events and everything in between.
How to Apply:
The cost of the program is $25 and includes breakfast and lunch, and is hosted at Launch Pointe (32040 Riverside Drive) from 8 am to 5:30 pm on January 23, 2025. The program runs twice a year (winter and fall). Registration is "first come, first serve" and open until capacity is reached and a then wait list will be created.
(CLICK ON THE DESKTOP VERSION, ACTIVITIES, THEN SPECIAL INTEREST). For more information, please email econdev@lake-elsinore.org or call (951) 674-3124 x 912.
Graduation & Certificate Process
Graduates of the Program will obtain a Certificate of Completion, an official Leaders Pin, a graduate photo, will be recognized as a Lake Elsinore Leader and will be featured on the City’s website as a valued partner and Leader including links to their business website.
Businesses In Action Spotlight
The City of Lake Elsinore's Businesses in Action Spotlight program is a free program to recognize local businesses and their contributions to the community and region.
How it works
Each month, a committee will review applications and choose a business to honor during a special segment of the monthly city council meeting. The winning business will also be highlighted on the city's website and receive a 30-second professional video production created by the Department of Economic Development and their team. The video will be showcased on the city’s website, social media platforms, and given to the business with rights to use for promotion.
Who can apply?
If your business or nonprofit organization is in Lake Elsinore, and your story highlights your positive contribution to the community and the benefits of operating in the city, we'd love for you to apply! Let's show off our pride in Lake Elsinore's thriving business community and strong local economy. You must have a valid City of Lake Elsinore business license and occupy a commercial business location or use a permitted vehicle for mobile businesses. Renew your Business License if necessary.
How to Apply
- Download and complete the application form. Scan the completed form and email it to EconDev@lake-elsinore.org.
- City staff will review the application for completeness and verify business license status.
- Committee will review applications submitted, and city staff will contact the winning business to schedule a video shoot date and time, and get a biography on the winning business.
- Before filming begins, all participants in a video must complete the photo/video release form.
Congratulations to this month's featured business!
Your dedication strengthens Lake Elsinore, making it an even better place to live, work, and thrive.
Pins 'N Pockets
Tools
Demographics
Population
Population Buildout
(the largest city in Southwest Riverside County)
Median Home Price
Average Household Income
Race
Hispanic or Latino: 51%
White: 45%
Asian: 7%
Black: 6%
Other: 5%
Zoning Check
Find out if the zoning of a property is right for your business. Find sites where your business can operate to narrow down potential locations.
Fees
See current development fees.
Permits & Licenses
Apply and pay for permits, check the status of your application, request inspections, and more.
Business Licenses
You can now apply for or renew a business license online. For business license questions, please contact the Finance Division at 951-674-3124 or by email at biz@lake-elsinore.org.
New Businesses
New Businesses Located within Lake Elsinore City Limits:
Commercial/Industrial/Retail or Office space located within the city limits
Contact Joanne Jackson in the Finance/Business License Department to obtain your application and special instructions.
Joanne Jackson
Account Specialist II / Business License
jackson@lake-elsinore.org
(951) 674-3124 Ext. 302
City of Lake Elsinore
130 S Main Street
Lake Elsinore, CA 92530
Home Based Businesses
Complete this application and bring to the Planning Counter for approval.
External Companies Conducting Business in Lake Elsinore:
State Licensed Contractors coming into the city limits and Businesses not within city limits
Complete the forms and submit to:
City of Lake Elsinore
130 S Main Street
Lake Elsinore, CA 92530
The following business types may need to meet additional requirements. Visit the business license counter at Lake Elsinore City Hall for more information.
- Mobile Vendors: Ice Cream Trucks, Catering Trucks, Peddlers and Solicitors
- Massage Technicians and Massage Establishment Owners: Copy of CAMTC certification is required. Separate licenses are required for each individual technician.
Business Directory
A directory of businesses and organizations in Lake Elsinore.
Workforce
Primary trade area population
People within a 30-minute drive
of residents age 25+ have graduated high school or higher
Career Tools
Alison
Empower yourself with free online courses where you can earn certificates and diplomas.
Grow with Google
Training, tools, and resources to help you grow your skills, career, or business.
Jobs
Riverside County Workforce Development Center
Serving job seekers, employers and partners.
CalJobs
Helping Californians get back to work.
Education
Southwest Riverside Adult Education
High School Completion, English as a Second Language, Citizenship, Career Education, and Workforce Preparation.
Valley Adult School
The vision of Valley Adult School is to continue to meet and exceed the changing educational and employment needs of our ever-changing community.
Resources
Connect IE
Search for Free or Reduced Cost Services like Medical Care, Food, Job Training and More.
EDD Benefits Program Online
The support you need, when you need it most.