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Honoring the Hands That Feed Us
2026 International Year of Women Farmers
As we celebrate 2026, the International Year of Women Farmers, the Nevada County Economic Development Office is proud to recognize the incredible women powering our local agricultural economy. From our historic ridge communities to the fertile foothill valleys, women producers are driving innovation, stewardship, and economic resilience across our region.
In Nevada County, female farm operators lead diverse enterprises, from organic row crops and grassfed livestock to specialty cut flowers and agritourism destinations. Beyond harvesting fresh, healthy food for our region, these small business owners generate local jobs, keep agricultural dollars circulating close to home, and preserve our cherished working landscapes.
The Economic Development Office, remains dedicated to supporting our agricultural entrepreneurs with the resources, programs, and opportunities needed to thrive. Our local food system is stronger and more vibrant because of their leadership and dedication.
Please join us throughout the year in supporting our local growers. You can directly invest in the women feeding Nevada County by shopping at our neighborhood farmers markets, subscribing to a local CSA, or visiting foothill farm stands!
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Every flower has a story.
Some bloom easily. Others push through rocky soil... harsh winters... and storms that seemed impossible to survive. That's the heart behind Enchanted Garden Flower & Gift Shop.
Yes, you'll discover beautiful fresh flowers, unique gifts, boutique treasures, and wonderful consignment finds. But every purchase does something even more beautiful.
Enchanted Garden is a social enterprise supporting women on their journey of healing through life coaching and Blooming Hearts Counseling trauma recovery programs, helping survivors of sexual abuse rediscover hope, confidence, and strength. You can even experience the healing power of creativity through floral design art therapy classes and empowerment life coaching courses.
An enchanted garden isn't just a place where flowers grow. It's where lives bloom again. Visit Enchanted Garden Flower & Gift Shop today at 1784 East Main Street, Grass Valley. Because sometimes the most beautiful gift you can give... is helping someone blossom.
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Celebrating Katmandu Hippie: A Story of Community Collaboration in Business Development
Opening a new business in Nevada County is always a milestone worth celebrating, and the recent ribbon cutting for Katmandu Hippie in Nevada City was a perfect reminder of how much collaboration goes into turning an idea into a thriving local enterprise.
Every business journey begins with an inspired vision. In this case, the owners of Katmandu Hippie reached out early to discuss their concept and explore how to navigate the path from dream to doors‑open. From the first conversations, the Nevada County Economic Development Office helped connect the owners with resources, guidance, and partners who support entrepreneurs at every stage.
County departments played important roles as the project moved forward. Environmental Health worked with the owners to inspect and approve the commercial kitchen, while the Recorder’s Office assisted with filing their Fictitious Business Name Statement. At the city level, Nevada City supported the business through planning review, signage approvals, and operational coordination, before the plans moved to Nevada County for building review and permitting.
Beyond government partners, our local economic development ecosystem also contributes meaningfully to business success. Katmandu Hippie engaged with organizations such as the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce and other resource partners who help new businesses with networking, marketing support, and connections to the broader community.
Together, these touchpoints form a supportive environment where entrepreneurs don’t have to navigate the process alone. When each partner contributes their part, businesses like Katmandu Hippie are able to launch with confidence and become vibrant additions to our local economy.
Katmandu Hippie is now open at 426 Broad Street, Nevada City.
Phone: (929) 350‑2946
Tuesday–Sunday
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Cafe opens at 7 a.m.
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Restaurant: Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
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Dinner: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Please join us in welcoming Katmandu Hippie and supporting Nevada County’s newest culinary destination.
| | ASK ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | | | I’m an Established Business.
How Can Nevada County Support Me?
Nevada County is home to many long-standing businesses that have shaped our local economy for decades. A question often asked is: We’ve been operating here for years. How can the Economic Development Office help us?
Economic Development isn’t just for new startups. The Office is here to support established businesses as they grow, adapt, and plan for the future.
Navigating County Processes
If you’re considering an expansion, remodel, or facility upgrade, our staff can help you understand County processes before you begin. This can include assistance to coordinate across departments, clarify timelines, and help you prepare early so your project moves as smoothly as possible.
Workforce Support
Many employers continue to face hiring challenges. Economic Development staff work closely with Job Training Center, schools, and regional workforce partners to connect businesses with training opportunities, recruitment resources, apprenticeships, and job fairs.
Funding and Incentives
Rural businesses often qualify for grants, loans, rebates, and state programs that aren’t always well publicized. Economic Development tracks these opportunities and can help determine which ones align with your growth or modernization goals.
Problem-Solving and Business Concierge Support
Sometimes you simply run into a roadblock, an unclear requirement, a process that doesn’t fit your situation, or a question without an obvious answer. When that happens, reach out so we can connect you with the right people and help troubleshoot challenges before they slow you down.
Planning Ahead
Within the office, the Economic Development Office monitors economic trends, industry needs, broadband projects, and regional initiatives that may benefit your business. If you’re exploring new markets, preparing for technology upgrades, or assessing long-term growth, we’re happy to share insights and data.
Connecting You to Community Partners
From chambers and the Small Business Development Center, Economic Resource Council and Sierra Commons to industry networks and regional innovation groups, let us help you find the right partners and collaborative opportunities.
No matter how long you’ve been here, your success matters. If you have a question or need support, reach out anytime, the Economic Development staff is here to help you continue thriving in Nevada County.
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Jada Windows Creates Pathways
for Students Through Real World Training
Nevada County continues to grow its skilled workforce through partnerships between local employers and high school Career Technical Education (CTE) programs. Jada Windows’ recent internship with Nevada Union High School student Lucas Silva is a clear example of how hands-on experience benefits both students and businesses.
Human Resource Manager Aaron Grace said hosting a student intern aligns directly with Jada Windows’ long-standing values. “At Jada Windows, we view architecture as an art form, and our custom steel windows and doors are contributions to those masterpieces,” Grace shared. “We wanted to pass on the torch of this specialized, high-end fabrication trade to local students.”
Grace explained that mindset and safety awareness are just as important as technical skills. “Basic technical familiarity is a fantastic baseline, but a natural passion for excellence cannot be taught,” he said.
This year’s intern, Lucas Silva, quickly became a valued part of the team. “Infectious enthusiasm!” Grace said. “His ability to absorb hands-on instruction pushed us to look at our own training methods and set new benchmarks.”
For Lucas, the internship was a chance to experience what work is really like. “I thought it would be a great opportunity to gain career development skills and real-world experience,” he said. “I wanted to see what it was actually like to work in a professional environment instead of just learning about it in a classroom.”
He said the experience strengthened his communication, teamwork, and responsibility. “I learned how important it is to pay close attention to detail and take pride in the work I do,” Lucas said. “The skills I gained are things I can take with me into any career.”
Grace encourages other local employers to consider hosting interns. “Look at it as an investment with immediate returns. The Nevada Joint Union High School District Career Technical Education program prepares students extremely well, making it seamless to step up, support our community, and gain a motivated extra set of hands.”
To learn more about student internship click here to email our Youth Coordinator.
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County Supervisors Approve $261,884
in Funding for Four New Recreational Projects
Over the past month, Nevada County Board of Supervisors approved $261,884 to support four new recreation projects, including a new pocket park in Nevada City, a skate spot in Grass Valley, an equestrian trail off Highway 20 and a nature pavilion on Bear Yuba Land Trust’s Wildflower Ridge Preserve.
Three projects were approved at the Board’s Aug. 25 meeting, with the Grass Valley skate spot approved Tuesday, Sept. 15.
Add text and link it
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Unlock Funding for Your Farm or Ranch
Free Grant Writing Workshop Coming September 30
Securing grant funding can be a gamechanger for an agricultural business, but navigating requirements, eligibility, and scoring rubrics often feels daunting. To help local growers cut through the complexity, Sierra Harvest is offering a free grant workshop Wednesday, September 30, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm.
Provided as part of Sierra Harvest’s Beginning Farmers and Ranchers program, this interactive session is designed to guide farmers build competitive applications and secure capital for their operations.
What You’ll Learn
The three-hour evening is split between direct instruction and dedicated co-working time, ensuring you leave with practical progress on your funding goals:
- Grants for Farmers Overview: This section covers how to quickly evaluate a grant opportunity along with the core documentation and farm details you need to have ready before applying.
- What Grant Reviewers Look For: This segment demystifies scoring rubrics, eligibility criteria, and common pitfalls that derail otherwise strong proposals.
- Co-Working & Office Hours: This optional, hands-on session enables you to work directly on active grant applications, draft mission/vision statements, refine farm business plans, or get one-on-one Q&A support.
Event Details
Date/Time: Wednesday, September 30, 2026, 5:00 – 8:00 pm
Location: Madelyn Helling Library Community Room, 980 Helling Way, Nevada City
For More Information:hello@sierraharvest.org
Questions: (530) 265-2343
Whether you are preparing for an upcoming state or federal grant cycle or just getting your documentation in order for future opportunities, this workshop will give you the tools to write a compelling, fundable proposal.
Light dinner, appetizers, and refreshments will be provided for all attendees.
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Sierra Health Foundation Event Sponsorships
Deadline November 1
Nevada County nonprofits and public agencies working to improve health and quality of life in Northern California can apply for event sponsorship funding through the Sierra Health Foundation.
Sponsorships support events that advance community health, wellness, and racial equity. Applications are accepted quarterly and funding decisions are typically made within six weeks. Applicants should include detailed event information. Only one event is allowed per request.
Learn more by visiting Sierra Health Foundation webpage.
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Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions
Applications Accepted Year-Round
Local nonprofits, take note: Costco Wholesale offers charitable grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on Children, Education, and Health and Human Services. Unlike many funders, Costco reviews applications on a rolling basis all year long. However, give yourself a head start, since they ask for at least 3 months' lead time before your program or event kicks off. Grants generally cover up to 10% of a program's budget, and each organization may submit one request per fiscal year (September–August).
One thing to know before you apply: Nevada County doesn't have a Costco warehouse of its own, so eligibility isn't automatic. The good news is Costco makes it easy to check.
- For smaller, local requests, call the Roseville warehouse directly at (916) 789-1485.
- For larger grant applications, reach out to Costco's Community Relations team at CommunityRelations@costco.com to confirm your organization qualifies.
Charitable Giving FAQ website for full guidelines and the application.
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Doyle Foundation Grants
Mark Your Calendar for Next Year
The Doyle Foundation, Inc. supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits nationwide "for the betterment of life," with a giving history rooted in California. Unlike many funders, Doyle doesn't limit itself to narrow focus areas. Past grantees span human services, education, youth and family programs, health and therapeutic services, museums, and veterans' organizations.
Grant amounts vary widely and awards have been given up to $500,000 with an average amount of $7,000 for small projects. Larger awards ($150K–$500K) have typically gone to established organizations with well-defined, significant projects, so smaller and mid-sized nonprofits shouldn't be discouraged from applying.
While this year's grant deadline of July 1 has passed, it's worth planning ahead and reaching out to build a relationship with the Foundation. Applications reopen annually, and a detailed budget plus board approval documentation are required. Mark your calendars now for July 1, 2027, and start preparing your proposal early.
Learn more at Doyle Foundation Webpage.
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2026 California Nutrition Incentive Program
Application deadline: 11/3/26 17:00
Expected award announcement: 12/18/2026
Letter of Intent Required - No
Requires Matched Funding - No
StateFunding Method: Reimbursement(s)
The 2026 CNIP RFP is focused on increasing California grown fresh fruit and vegetable purchases at Certified Farmers’ Markets and California Small Businesses Learn more by clicking here.by shoppers using CalFresh (SNAP) benefits and sustaining proposals in high need areas.
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Don't miss the tremendous array of trainings
being offered over the next month.
| | Share the trainings with members of your team and staff. | | The following trainings are courtesy of the Sierra Small Business Development Center at: (530) 582-5022. | |
Unlocking Government Contracts A Procurement Pathways Series
October 1, 11:30 - 1:00
FREE
Webinar
Have you been thinking of expanding your business through government contracting?
Join the Norcal SBDC ProBiz program and DGS for this 5-part Cohort series.
Unlocking Government Contracts: A Procurement Pathways Series is a five-week online training and mentoring cohort offered by the NorCal SBDC ProBiz to help entrepreneurs scale their business through government contracting. This five-week online program helps small business leaders navigate the government contracting space.
Session 1 – October 1st: Understanding the Government Contracting Landscape Learn the fundamentals of government procurement, how agencies buy goods and services, and what it takes to become procurement-ready.
Session 2 – October 8th: Finding the Right Government Contract Opportunities Learn how to identify, research, and qualify contracting opportunities using procurement portals, forecasts, and market intelligence.
Session 3 – October 14th: Doing Business with California State Government – DGS presentation Navigate California’s procurement system, supplier registration process, certifications, and agency purchasing practices.
Session 4 – October 21st: Developing Competitive Responses to Government Solicitations Understand solicitations, evaluate requirements, and prepare responsive bids, proposals, and quotes that meet agency expectations.
Session 5 – October 29th: Bonding, Insurance & Financial Readiness for Government Contracts Understand bonding requirements, insurance options, and the financial preparation needed to successfully compete for and perform government contracts.
Click here to learn more.
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QuickBooks Online Series 1 & 2
October 7 - 10:00 - 12:00
Fee: $40
Webinar
Are you looking for an accounting system and don’t know how to get started? This webinar will take you through the basics of accounting, which QuickBooks version is best for your business, and setting up your company and chart of accounts in QuickBooks Online.
Click here for information and to register.
October 14 - 10: 12:00
Fee: $60
Webinar
This webinar will cover: Setting up items, using purchasing orders, customizing invoices, creating other forms, and syncing bank accounts.
Click here for information and to register.
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Cybersecurity Basics
October 20, 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Free
Webinar
Join us for a discussion of the basics of cybersecurity as we discuss some details that every computer user should know in order to protect themselves and their business.
How do we protect ourselves and our companies against cyber criminals? We all know that we shouldn’t email our account information to someone claiming to be a Nigerian prince. We’ve heard the terms “spyware”, “ransomware”, “hacking”, “phishing”, etc. But what do we need to know to avoid these things? How can non-technical people identify attacks and how should we respond?
Join Zack Barton as he discusses the basics of cybersecurity and goes over some of the details that every computer user should understand to protect themselves and their businesses.
To learn more click here.
| | | The following trainings are offered by SCORE | | | |
October 6 - 1:00 - 2:00 pm EDT
Free
Virtual
Learn how to build a lean, profitable one-person business using AI, automation and multiple income streams.
Click here for more information.
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Business Owner Compensation: How It Works for Sole Proprietors, Partnerships and Corporations
October 8 - 1:00 - 2:00 pm EDT
Free
Virtual
Paying yourself as a business owner involves more than simply moving money from your business account to your personal account. The method you use matters, and choosing the wrong approach can lead to unexpected taxes, reporting issues or costly corrections down the road. Understanding owner compensation is key to keeping your business compliant and your financial records accurate.
In this webinar, experts from Block Advisors by H&R Block will break down how owner compensation works across common business structures—including sole proprietorships, partnerships, S corporations and C corporations. You’ll learn which payment methods apply to each structure, when payroll may be required and why proper bookkeeping is essential for recording owner payments correctly.
What You'll learn:
- How to identify which compensation methods apply to your business structure
- The differences between owner draws, distributions, guaranteed payments, wages and dividends
- Reasonable compensation requirements for S corporation and C corporation owners
- When reasonable compensation rules may apply
- How to recognize tax and payroll consequences before taking money from the business
- The bookkeeping and records needed to support owner payments
Registration for the class available here.
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Heart of Gold Gravel Race Returns This October
Nevada County's Heart of Gold Gravel Race is gearing up for another exciting ride through the backroads, ridgelines, and historic landscapes that make our region such a special place to live. Designed with both seasoned riders and casual cyclists in mind, the event offers multiple route options that highlight Nevada County’s natural beauty while supporting an important cause: youth mental‑health initiatives in our community.
The race begins in downtown Nevada City before sending riders into a mix of challenging climbs, sweeping descents, and quiet forest roads. Locals can expect a lively atmosphere at the start/finish area, where music, vendors, and community organizations come together to celebrate outdoor recreation and wellness. Whether you’re participating, cheering from the sidelines, or volunteering, it’s a chance to connect with neighbors and enjoy a day centered on health, community pride, and our growing outdoor recreation economy.
Riders interested in joining the event can register through the official race website by clicking here. You'll find route details, volunteer opportunities, and information about how event proceeds support youth mental‑health programs. Early signup is encouraged, as routes often fill quickly and fees increase as race day approaches.
If you’re looking for a fall adventure or simply want to experience the energy of a beloved community event, the Heart of Gold Gravel Race offers a great way to engage with local tourism while celebrating what makes Nevada County strong: passion, community, and the outdoors.
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Contact the Economic Development Office at (530) 470-2795 for business assistance and a friendly connection to available resources.
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