Our Approach

We understand the need to identify and address both the symptoms and root causes of persistent challenges for under resourced small businesses in San Francisco. We believe it is our collective responsibility to be part of solution building, and rely on close collaborations with community based organizations, the City, corporations, small businesses, and locals to be our partners in this work.

We are guided by two strategic goals and are building toward them across four key strategies that are informed by our organizational values.

OUR STRATEGIC GOALS

Small Business Success

Increasing Neighborhood Vibrancy

OUR STRATEGIES

Operate City Contracts

We design service models to maximize the efficacy and accountability of delivered services and lower the burden for small business owners to access government funds and resources.

Respond to Unmet Small Business Needs

We are a learning organization and pilot services where we are uniquely positioned to engage. Our pilots directly map to an established community need that either we have directly measured and surveyed, or one which has been measured and surveyed by a partner.

Build a pro small bUSINESS constituency

We create clear pathways to support and advocate for small businesses for San Francisco enthusiasts (locals, workers, visitors alike).

Shape small business regulation

We  engage government leaders and District Supervisors to introduce, amend or waive regulatory requirements to make it easier for under resourced small businesses to succeed.

OUR VALUES

Centering the Community

We prioritize the experience and needs of the communities that we serve. They guide our approach and the work we do.

Proactive Problem-Solving

We work with urgency to find and implement solutions to emerging and entrenched challenges.

Accountability

We do the things we say we will do, and we are transparent with our stakeholders when we can't meet a commitment.

EMPATHY

We listen and work to understand the perspectives of our stakeholders.

Curiosity

We approach our work with a desire to learn and improve.