Supporting a Thriving Culture OF ENTREPRENEURS
Small Business Support in York, PA
The BLOOM Business Empowerment Center provides resources and opportunities for underserved entrepreneurs and small businesses with a focus on increasing equity and advancement for women and minority-owned businesses for the purposes of community development.
Since its launch, BLOOM has provided education taught by experts to over 750 entrepreneurs, awarded over $670,000 in micro-grants, financed over $2,000,000 in start-up and growth capital, and hosted dozens of networking and engagement events to strengthen the network of entrepreneurs in York County.
Meet the TEAM
Led by Sully, Marlena, and Lissuannette, the BLOOM Business Empowerment Center leverages the resources and expertise of the team at the YCEA to help navigate small business paths whether you are just starting out or are ready to expand.
Join us for office hours at the Downtown Resource Center on Mondays from 12pm-4pm. Walk-ins are welcome or email us to make an appointment.
Sully Pinos
Executive Director
717.771.4577
Marlena Schugt
Program Manager
717.771.4579
Lissuannette Rivera Mercado
Opportunity Specialist
717.718.7843
BLOOM ADVISORY BOARD
Meet the community leaders who make up BLOOM’s Advisory Board and guide our team to best meet the needs of entrepreneurs and small businesses in York.
Loans
Access to Capital is a vital component for a business’s life span. To help startup and existing small businesses in York County accelerate and maintain their growth, the BLOOM Business Empowerment Center offers a variety of small business funding financing options that can eliminate barriers to capital. Through our educational programming services and one on one meetings, BLOOM can offer interested applicants with financial training and a step by step approach to seeking capital for their business.
Grants
Help your business improve services or expand operations with a BLOOM grant. These micro-grant programs are for existing businesses to accomplish a project that otherwise may not have been possible.
It was the beginning of a great opportunity for me to learn and expand my knowledge about everything related to my business. I am very happy to have come across such an excellent resource, as it helped me obtain many opportunities. I don’t have the words to thank them enough, and of course, everyone who comes to me will always receive an excellent recommendation.
FRANCES LEON
La Papleta
BLOOM was a breath of fresh air for our business, even after operating for over 20 years. Not only providing a great opportunity to network with other local business owners, but the classes offered by BLOOM were a great opportunity to refresh our knowledge, and learn more about operating in York County.
IRINA LAWRENCE MATHIAS
Flying Fibers
The BLOOM Business Empowerment Center believed in me and granted me their very first business loan because they saw something in me that other lending institutions were missing. They were attentive to my story from beginning to end.
JEN HEASLEY
Sweet Mama’s Mambo Sauce
The BLOOM Business Empowerment Center has impacted me and my business in so many meaningful ways. They connected me with the right people and resources to not only help grow my business, but to expand. With the support of BLOOM, I was able to open my second location this year. They genuinely believe in entrepreneurs and are deeply invested in strengthen our community.
MICHELLE WRIGHT
Luxe + Mane
The BLOOM Business Empowerment Center has been an integral ally in providing financial opportunities and guidance. Being a first generational business owner the path ahead appears cloudy at times, however with diligence and a group like BLOOM, the vision is becoming clearer and confidence is gaining towards our dreams.
PHIL & LACRESHA DRAYDEN
Our Sons & Daughters
This series helped me to connect with people and resources all in one place. The classes haven’t really changed my business ideas, but they have enhanced my access to resources to execute my plans.
ASHANA TAYLOR
Fire Life Yoga
Register for a CLASS
Developed with local partners in small business development, these multi-week classes are offered at no-cost to support entrepreneurs in launching their business and small business owners in growing their business.
Explore OUR FUNDING PROGRAMS
Learn about our financing opportunities for small businesses that offer competitive rates and wrap-around technical assistance.
Consider a MENTORSHIP
Through partnerships with SCORE, WBCO, and more, mentorships provide opportunities to pair with existing business leaders for peer-to-peer support.
Helping YOU Succeed
Resources that HELP YOU SUCCEED
The BLOOM Business Empowerment Center offers a variety of resources to support small business growth and foster inclusive economic development in York County. From startup to mentorship to guidance through coursework, workshops, and talent development. Ready to get started?
When do classes start?
Find our upcoming class schedule and how to register here.
I have a business idea, where do I start?
Check out our Business Plan.
How do I register a business in PA?
How can I fund my business idea?
We offering many funding opportunities. Explore our loan options.
How can I meet other entrepreneurs?
Meet likeminded individuals through our networking resources. Learn more.
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