Salinas hosts forum to help small businesses enhance the city

Salinas economic developers said the city has established businesses which really pour money into the local economy, but they also need new small businesses to bring in fresh ideas and people.

“I’m starting a weaving business,” said sole proprietor Stephanie Michelet. “I teach workshops and also I’m trying to sale my handmade weavings.”

Nate Robinson is also trying to expand his business in Salinas.

“We provide basic IT services like system administrations, network administrations, we do Wi-FI s ystems,” said Robinson.

Both of them went to the Small Business and Resource Expo in Salinas on Wednesday to learn about everything from taxes to marketing and record keeping in an industry they said can be complicated and competitive.

“For us it’s really to stay current,” said Robinson. To stay current on the information, and the needs, and the demands of our clients.”

Salinas Economic Development Manager Andrew Myrick said with the city seeing a lot of growth and being poised for much more, the need for small businesses has become stronger.

“The essence of capitalism is, what does the consumer want and how do we provide it,” said Myrick. “What’s the best way to provide it and that’s what small businesses do.”

Myrick also said growth in the tourism industry, healthcare and Silicon Valley has spilled over to Salinas. About 25 ag tech companies have moved into the Taylor Farms building in downtown.

“As agriculture starts utilizing more technology in their processes, we’re hoping that the companies that are providing that technology will see the value of locating here,” said Myrick.

The city is also looking to revitalize the downtown, Alisal and Chinatown, areas where they believe new small businesses could fill the void.

Developers said when it comes to the types of businesses they’re looking for, it runs the gamut. Ag tech businesses, financial services, bookstores and retail shops for younger adults are a few.

ORIGINAL STORY: Salinas hosts a Small Business and Resource Expo to help existing and new small businesses.

City officials say Salinas is poised for growth, creating a need for small businesses.

KION’s Maya Holmes will have more at 5&6 about where more shops are needed and what types.