The CORE Program provides free bookkeeping support to help small businesses and nonprofits in San Diego County strengthen their operations and training to meet compliance requirements.
The BUILD Program assists businesses with insurance and bonding needs in pursuing contracting opportunities with the County of San Diego.
Businesses apply once and are matched to the program that best fits their needs and readiness level, or as specified in the application process. If you have an active County contracting opportunity and need expedited insurance or bonding support, email us at info@foundersfirstcdc.org.
Built for businesses that want to:
Built for businesses that want to:
Yes, both for profit and nonprofit organizations can apply.
Unfortunately, no. To be eligible for the CORE or BUILD programs, your business must be headquartered in San Diego County. While we appreciate businesses that serve the region, this pilot program is specifically designed to support companies physically based within the county.
Although you are not guaranteed, you are provided with the resources to support your application should you qualify for an open opportunity.
It’s great that you have a bookkeeper. The services provided are offered to support your business and guide your team. It is your decision if you choose to change providers, however the program assessments and guidance will be provided from our list of bookkeepers.
A template P&L is provided in the application for you to use. Please complete to the best of your ability.
A team member from Founders First CDC will connect with you via email and phone on next steps or if any additional information is needed. You can also reach out to info@foundersfirstcdc.org
Local business
Meets at least one of the following criteria:
The County defines small businesses broadly so more organizations can qualify. To qualify as a small business, you must meet one of the following criteria:
| Eligibility | Small business | Small business for the purpose of public works |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum employee count | 100 | 200 |
| Average Gross Annual Receipts cap over the last three tax years | $18 million | $43 million |
Social Equity Enterprise (SEE)
A SEE is a business or nonprofit deeply rooted in advancing equity. They operate in and for the benefit of historically underinvested communities.
SEEs meet at least one of the following:
The County of San Diego is committed to inclusive economic growth and ensuring that all communities have access to the resources they need to thrive.
Founders First CDC is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing economic mobility through innovative training, capital access, and wraparound support. Learn more at foundersfirstcdc.org.
Small businesses and nonprofits based in San Diego County
Organizations seeking to grow through County contracts
Businesses that need support in compliance, bonding, or back-office operations
A breakdown of the high-value support included in the County of San Diego Country BUILD + CORE pilot partnership programs with Founders First CDC.
County Contract Navigation
Step-by-step help understanding and applying for County bids.
RFP Strategy Guidance
Personalized tips to increase your chances of landing larger contracts.
Bookkeeping Help
Get expert 1-on-1 support to set up or improve your bookkeeping system.
Compliance Education
Learn wage laws, ethical practices, and how to avoid common violations.
Bonding & Insurance Support
Help overcoming the costly requirements that prevent many businesses from bidding.
Funding Resource Navigation
We’ll point you toward grants, loans, and tools you might not know about.
Founders First CDC does not endorse the information, content, presentation or accuracy of any other website and claims no responsibility for it. You will be subject to the terms and conditions of the other website, including but not limited to its privacy policy.
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