The Randall W. Lewis Center for Entrepreneurship (RLCE) at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) has launched a bold initiative to generate $1 billion in economic impact by 2028. The groundbreaking initiative aims to empower small businesses, foster innovation, and drive sustainable growth across the Inland Empire region, one of California’s most dynamic and diverse business landscapes.
The RLCE, a leading resource for entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners, has been a cornerstone of the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem for more than two decades. The Center provides vital support through business counseling and education through programs such as the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center and Women’s Business Centers, as well as access to a robust network of investors, mentors, and industry leaders. With its new initiative, the RLCE seeks to expand its services and deepen its impact, leveraging its expertise to propel the region’s economy to new heights.
“This ambitious goal is not just about numbers—it’s about transformation,” said Dr. Mike Stull, Director of the Randall W. Lewis Center for Entrepreneurship. “We are committed to supporting our entrepreneurs, nurturing innovation, and creating long-term economic growth in the Inland Empire. By reaching $1 billion in economic impact, we will solidify our region as a thriving hub for business development and a model for the future of entrepreneurship.”
The RLCE’s $1 billion economic impact goal will be realized through a series of strategic initiatives, including:
- Leveraging Entrepreneurial Resource Centers (ERC): Located in San Bernardino, Palm Desert and Temecula, the RLCE will continue to expand the programs and services offered through its ERCs, including the addition of additional affiliate partners – organizations that work closely with the Center to deliver unique and targeted business assistance programs at each location.
- Expanding educational offerings: The RLCE will launch new programs to equip entrepreneurs with innovative business strategies and skills, addressing the unique challenges faced by startups in today’s rapidly evolving economy.
- Strengthening access to capital: The initiative will include enhanced support for connecting entrepreneurs with funding opportunities, from angel investors to venture capital firms, ensuring that businesses have the financial resources they need to grow.
- Fostering innovation and job creation: By fostering partnerships between businesses, local government, and academic institutions, the RLCE will stimulate innovation and drive job creation across the region.
- Providing tailored mentorship and networking opportunities: Entrepreneurs will benefit from personalized coaching and exclusive networking events designed to connect them with industry leaders, peers, and potential collaborators.
The RLCE has already made significant strides in supporting the Inland Empire’s business community. Over the past 20 years, the Center has helped launch more than 2,300 startups, provided crucial resources to nearly 200,000 entrepreneurs, and facilitated the creation and retention of more than 54,000 jobs in the region. The result of its services has helped entrepreneurs gain access to capital and increase sales, recording an economic impact of $846 million. Through its new initiative, the RLCE plans to build on this momentum and continue to serve as a catalyst for positive change in the local economy.
“This initiative will not only benefit the region's entrepreneurs but will also elevate the Inland Empire’s role as a leader in innovation and business growth across California,” said Dr. Tomás Gomez-Arias, Dean of the Jack H. Brown College of Business and Public Administration at CSUSB. “By leveraging the resources and expertise of the RLCE, we’re paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for our entire community.”
As the RLCE moves toward this ambitious $1 billion goal, it is calling on local businesses, government entities, educational institutions, and the broader community to join forces in this transformative endeavor. The success of the initiative will require a collaborative effort, and the RLCE is eager to engage stakeholders at all levels in building a thriving, sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem.
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About the Randall W. Lewis Center for Entrepreneurship (RLCE)
The Randall W. Lewis Center for Entrepreneurship (RLCE) at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout the Inland Empire region. Founded to foster innovation and economic growth, the RLCE provides business counseling, access to funding, educational programs, and networking opportunities. Through its diverse services, the RLCE plays a critical role in shaping the future of business in the region.
The top tier segments of the RLCE include the Women’s Business Centers (IEWBC.org) (CVWBC.org),?the Small Business Development Center (IESBDC) (ociesmallbusiness.org/),? International?Trade Development Program (cbecasia.com), Entrepreneurial Resource Center – San Bernardino (entre.csusb.edu/content/ERCSB), Entrepreneurial Resource Center – Temecula (entre.csusb.edu/content/ERCT), Palm Desert Entrepreneurial Resource Center (pderc.org)? and the Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards (spiritawardsie.com).
For more information about the RLCE and its initiatives, please visit www.entre.csusb.edu.