Celebrating Small Business Month and the Power of Local Business
Every May, communities across the country celebrate National Small Business Week, traditionally recognized during the first week of May. It is a time to recognize the entrepreneurs, innovators, and local business owners who help drive our economy forward every day.
Small businesses are more than storefronts and service providers — they are the backbone of our local economy. They create jobs, invest in neighborhoods, support community events, and help shape the unique identity of our community. From family-owned restaurants and retailers to professional services, manufacturers, and emerging startups, small businesses fuel economic growth while creating opportunities for residents and families alike.
In San Leandro, small businesses play a vital role in strengthening our business community and enhancing quality of life. When residents shop locally, dine locally, and hire local services, those dollars circulate back into the community — supporting jobs, schools, community programs, and future economic development.
This year, in celebration of Small Business Week, we are excited to host a Business Expo that brings together businesses and community members for networking, discovery, and connection. The Expo will feature both Business-to-Business and Business-to-Customer opportunities, giving attendees a chance to learn about local products, services, and organizations all in one place.
Sign up and come out to support Small Businesses as a reminder that when small businesses succeed, communities thrive. Supporting local businesses helps create a stronger, more vibrant economy for everyone.
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Join us at the Business Expo — there’s still time to sign up and come check it out!
May 21, 2026
Whether you’re looking for Business-to-Business connections or Business-to-Customer opportunities, this is a great chance to discover who to do business with in San Leandro.
Invite a colleague, friend, or family member and explore local businesses, services, and community connections all in one place.
Plus, don’t miss the technology raffle featuring prizes to help you work, play, or simply have fun — from earbuds and headphones to a laptop!
Come network, connect, and discover new opportunities right here in San Leandro.
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Roundtable Discussion: Addressing Illegal Food Street Vending
May 28, 2026
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Illegal food street vending continues to be a growing concern for many businesses throughout San Leandro. Local business owners have expressed concerns about unfair competition, public health and safety, lack of permitting and oversight, and the broader impact on businesses that work hard to comply with regulations, licensing requirements, insurance, taxes, and operating standards.
Running a business requires significant investment, commitment, and responsibility. From permits and payroll to rent, insurance, and compliance, legitimate businesses contribute to the economic health and vitality of our community every day. Many business owners have shared frustrations about the challenges created when illegal operations bypass those same requirements.
To help facilitate conversation and identify possible solutions, the San Leandro Chamber of Commerce will host an in-person Roundtable Discussion on Wednesday, May 28, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the SLCC Office Conference Room.
This discussion will provide an opportunity for business owners to share experiences, concerns, and ideas surrounding illegal food street vending. Topics will include legislation, enforcement, community impacts, and what actions may be possible moving forward.
If your business has been affected — or if you want to support fellow business owners because you understand the realities and responsibilities that come with operating a business — we encourage you to join the conversation.
There is much to discuss, and your voice matters.
| | Sign up for Restaurant Week | | |
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Bring new visitors through your doors, increase spending, and shine a spotlight on our local food and drink scene. By offering a special for just one week, you help turn curious diners into loyal customers—without spending a dollar on marketing.
We do the promotion. You get the exposure.
It’s a simple way to:
- Boost visibility
- Grow your customer base
- Show off what makes your place worth stopping for!
It’s simple, free, and built to benefit you.
Just say yes, offer a special, and we’ll take care of the marketing.
Sign up today!
How to Join:
- Email us: info@sanleandrochamber.com
- Subject line: “YES, I want to participate”
- Required in your email:
- Restaurant name
- Logo (high-res PNG or JPG)
- Special for the week
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| A Night Out at the Ballpark | | |
Planning a company outing, client appreciation night, or team networking event? Bring your group to West Oakland for a night out at the Ballpark. The Oakland Ballers offer discounted ticket pricing for groups of 10 or more, making it easy to bring people to historic Raimondi Park for a fun, high-energy night rooted in Oakland pride and community. It’s a chance to step away from the office, connect in a lively setting, and enjoy a pro-baseball experience that feels distinctly local and memorable.
Whether you’re organizing a summer staff outing or entertaining customers, a Ballers group night is a great way to bring together baseball, community, and celebration in The Town.
Interested in sponsorship opportunities with the Ballers? Contact sam@oaklandballers.com.
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Supporting Oakland Roots
Hello East Bay Business Champions! Please share this information with your networks!!!
The East Bay Soccer Trail is officially LIVE!
We are just one month away from the start of World Cup action, and local businesses still have time to get involved...
We want to promote local East Bay businesses for FREE in our East Bay Soccer Trail online promotion!!!
Fill out this interest form here and we will give you a call to figure out how best to incorporate your business into this promotion!
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SAN LEANDRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | www.sanleandrochamber.com
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