If you’ve been creating a product worth sharing, the MADE program helps you take the next step—refining your idea, strengthening your brand, reaching customers, and building a sustainable business.

MADE is a free, seven-week hybrid business training and advising program developed and delivered by the Orange County/Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Designed for entrepreneurs with product-based businesses, the program combines expert-led instruction with practical support.

The Costa Mesa Business Assistance Collaborative (BAC) collaborates with the program partners to support the local cohort, connect participants with business resources, and provide supplemental benefits for eligible Costa Mesa businesses that complete the program.

Program Highlights

Participants gain practical guidance on:

  • Business planning
  • Product development
  • Branding
  • Financing
  • Marketing
  • Customer engagement and retention

The Costa Mesa cohort met Thursdays from August 27 through October 8, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. The hybrid program included virtual instruction, an in-person field trip, and an in-person graduation showcase.

Field Trip to Local Maker Faire

The 2026 Costa Mesa cohort visited Maker Faire Orange County to explore how makers present their products, attract customers, and connect with other entrepreneurs. As a MADE program sponsor, Maker Faire Orange County provided complimentary admission for participants, making the field trip possible.

“I went to Maker Faire to look for strategies on how to attract customers to our booth.”
— Jenary Leverette, 2026 Costa Mesa MADE participant

“The field trip provided as part of the MADE program was an incredible opportunity to network for my 3D-printing business creating displays for artists. I even recommended the MADE program to a vendor there because I like the program so much.”
— Sid Lam, 2026 Costa Mesa MADE participant

Graduation and Showcase

The City of Costa Mesa celebrated 34 entrepreneurs at the MADE Graduation and Business Showcase on Oct. 8 at the Norma Hertzog Community Center. After seven weeks of training in business planning, branding, financing, and marketing, graduates showcased their products and connected with community members and business resource partners. Explore highlights from the celebration below.

“MADE has helped me transform a dream I’ve carried for years into a business with clearer vision, direction, and purpose. Thank you so much for the guidance!” — Soraya Julian, Julian & Associates Publishing

“This program was very inspirational. They walked me through the process step by step. Love it!” — Gladys, Luma Image Concepts

“Thank you for this opportunity and shoutout to the wonderful program coordinators who were able to make this happen.”— Tammy Pham, Little Tokens

“MADE. A program created and designed to help a new entrepreneur business succeed. It did just that! Thank you.” — Marie Daley, Chesapeake Press

Costa Mesa Cohort Graduate Benefits

Participants who complete the Costa Mesa MADE program may qualify for additional benefits offered by program sponsors. These benefits are designed to help product-based businesses build visibility, reach customers, and continue growing after the program concludes.

Benefit eligibility and availability vary by business type and participating sponsor. Additional requirements may apply.

Examples of graduate benefits may include:

  • Marketing and promotional support
  • Temporary retail and pop-up opportunities
  • Discounted membership fees
  • Business development resources and partner connections

Benefits vary based on business type and availability. View benefits list here.

BAC Partners Supporting MADE Creators

The supplemental benefits described above are made possible through the Costa Mesa BAC and participating community partners.

“A flower that stops growing wilts. This is the same in business. Always be willing to learn and grow.”
— Kathleen Gregory, 2026 Costa Mesa MADE participant