Small Business Administration & Other Resources

The U.S. Small Business Administraton (SBA) 

The SBA supports small businesses with the tools to grow—especially when it comes to accessing government contracts and financing.

Through its network of certified lenders and procurement programs, the SBA helps local businesses:

• Compete for federal contracts

• Secure SBA-guaranteed loans

• Build long-term business resilience

 

SBA Certifications: Gain a Competitive Edge

Federal agencies set aside a percentage of contracts specifically for certified small businesses. If you qualify, you can tap into these opportunities—often with less competition. Los Gatos businesses in construction, tech, retail, food service, and professional services may all benefit from exploring these options.

 

Eligible SBA certifications include:

• Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB/EDWOSB):
  For businesses at least 51% owned and controlled by women in underrepresented industries.

• Socially & Economically Disadvantaged Businesses (8(a) Program):
  For businesses majority-owned by individuals who meet SBA’s criteria for social and economic disadvantage. A brief narrative is now required to qualify.

• Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB):
  For businesses owned and led by service-disabled veterans. Certification is required to access SDVOSB set-asides.

• HUBZone-Certified Business:
  For small businesses located in or employing residents of historically underutilized areas. Recent SBA updates have simplified recertification.

 

SBA-Guaranteed Loans: Flexible Financing That Works

The SBA doesn’t lend directly, but it guarantees loans through partner lenders—making it easier for small businesses to qualify.

Loan programs include:

• 7(a) Loans – for working capital, equipment, or expansion

• 504 Loans – for long-term, fixed-rate financing of buildings or major assets

• Microloans – up to $50,000 for startups or early-stage businesses

 

These loans often feature lower down payments, longer terms, and more flexible requirements than conventional financing. In times of crisis, the SBA also provides disaster relief funding to help businesses recover from federally declared emergencies, including wildfires, floods, and economic disruptions.

 

How to Get Started

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Our Chamber's Advisory Partners—including SCORE Silicon Valley, Silicon Valley SBDC, and Work2Future (visit our Free Business Advising page)—can guide you through eligibility, applications, and next steps. The Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce also assists our members with connections to these partners and to local SBA resources.

Learn more.

 

Santa Clara County Bad Check Restitution Program
Free assistance for merchants seeking restitution on returned checks under $5,000 (e.g., NSF, account closed). Call the District Attorney’s Merchant Hotline at 877‑520‑6137 for help.

 

West Valley College – Business Administration Program
West Valley College offers a range of academic programs in business, entrepreneurship, and management—designed to prepare students for real-world success. With a focus on applied learning, students gain foundational skills in finance, marketing, operations, and leadership.
Learn more. 

 

West Valley College – Small Business Essentials & Entrepreneurship Center
A local hub for small business growth and innovation, the Entrepreneurship Center at West Valley College provides free certificate programs, startup coaching, and access to incubator resources—all designed to help entrepreneurs launch and grow successful businesses.
Learn more. 

 

Los Gatos Librarians Index 
The Los Gatos Library is a great resource for local business owners, offering business research support, including vetted online directories and librarian-guided assistance. Learn more.

100 Villa Avenue
Los Gatos, CA 95030
408-354-6891