2026 Irvine Capital and Growth Conference

In partnership with the City of Irvine, this dynamic conference brings together small business owners, lenders, and resource partners to help businesses grow, scale, and access capital with confidence. Designed for businesses at every stage, the event offers practical tools, expert-led sessions, and direct connections to local, state, and federal resources. Attendees will choose between two targeted tracks focused on growth strategies and accessing capital, while also engaging in a robust resource fair featuring trusted lenders and business support organizations.

Conference Schedule

8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. | Registration & Resource Fair
Connect with small business service providers, lenders, and economic development partners while checking in and networking.

9:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. | Welcome & Opening Remarks

Track 1: Preparing for Growth
Actionable approaches to help your business expand with intention and stability

9:40 a.m. – 10:20 a.m.
Setting Achievable Targets and Tracking Progress with Financial Benchmarks
Explore how industry benchmarks and financial performance data can guide you in setting realistic goals and measuring your business growth effectively.

10:30 a.m. – 11:10 a.m.
From Insights to Impact: Using Digital Analytics to Drive Marketing Results
Learn how to leverage website data and digital metrics to make informed marketing decisions that lead to stronger customer engagement and increased sales.

11:20 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Hiring with Purpose: Building a Workforce Strategy for Small Business Growth
Gain practical tools for recruiting and workforce planning that support your business expansion, even in a challenging hiring environment.

Track 2: Accessing Capital
A Strategic Guide to Business loan Approval

9:40 a.m. – 10:20 a.m.
The Perfect Loan Package: Preparing for Business Loans and Understanding Your Eligibility
Learn what lenders look for, how to prepare your financial documents, and how to position your business for loan approval.

10:30 a.m. – 11:10 a.m.
The Lender Landscape: Choosing Between Conventional, SBA and State-Guaranteed Loans
Gain clarity on SBA and State-backed loan programs, including eligibility, benefits, and how they support small business growth.

11:20 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Beyond Traditional Banking: Exploring Alternative Financing Solutions
Explore non-traditional financing options and learn when alternative capital may be the right fit for your business.12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Lunch & Resource Fair
Continue conversations with lenders and resource partners while enjoying lunch and networking.

1:30 p.m. | Conference Wrap-Up

This event is brought to you in partnership with the City of Irvine and the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC Network. Don't miss this opportunity to propel your business forward!