If you’ve been creating something worth sharing, the EATS program helps you take the next step—building a business, reaching customers, and growing with confidence.
EATS is a business development program developed and delivered by the Orange County/Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in partnership with California State University Fullerton and funded through the office of Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris.
The Costa Mesa Business Assistance Collaborative (BAC) collaborates with the program partners to support local cohorts, connect participants with business resources, and provide supplemental graduate benefits for eligible Costa Mesa businesses.
Program Highlights
Participants gain practical guidance on:
• Business formation and licensing
• Pricing, budgeting, and financial projections
• Health and safety requirements
• Marketing and brand development
• Vendor and marketplace operations
The program in collaboration with Costa Mesa includes a mix of virtual instruction, an in-person field trip to the Hood Kitchen, and a final showcase event.
Costa Mesa Cohort Graduate Benefits
While everyone is welcome, Costa Mesa EATS graduates are eligible for a coordinated package of business development, marketing, and promotional support designed to help businesses grow after completing the program. Benefits are available for up to one year following graduation.
To qualify for graduate benefits, participants must complete the EATS program session and have an active business license in Costa Mesa.
Examples of graduate benefits may include:
• One-on-one Economic Development coaching
• Biz Boost feature article and City social media promotion
• Chamber networking opportunities and mentor connections
• Marketing assistance and exposure
• Vendor and pop-up opportunities with community partners
Benefits vary based on business type and availability. See chart in link below.
https://costamesabac.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/EATS-Graduate-Benefit-3.20.26.pdf
BAC Partners Supporting EATS Entrepreneurs
The graduate benefits described above are made possible through the Costa Mesa BAC.
Graduation Showcase Gallery
The Spring 2026 EATS cohort featured 24 aspiring food entrepreneurs representing a diverse range of food and beverage concepts. During the Graduation and Entrepreneur Showcase, participants shared their products, business ideas, and entrepreneurial journeys with community leaders, business partners, and supporters.
Explore highlights from the showcase below.
Coming Soon: SBDC’s MADE Program
Designed for maker’s, artists, designers, creative entrepreneurs, MADE provides practical training in marketing, advertising, and digital entrepreneurs.
Ready to take your business to the next level?
With the session starting on August 27, 2026, the MADE program (in collaboration with the Costa Mesa BAC) will bring opportunity for entrepreneurs and small business owners to strengthen their marketing, branding, advertising, and digital business skills.
Developed and delivered by the SBDC, MADE provides practical, expert-led training designed to help businesses increase visibility, attract customers, and build a stronger foundation for growth.
Learn more about the program and eligibility requirements by viewing the flyer below.