Cities Show They Are “Business Friendly” with Help From OPIS Network

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) December 19, 2011 -- Newport Beach, CA. Every city wants to be “business friendly,” and most are challenged for additional tax revenue as we face unprecedented and difficult times. That’s where OPIS Network comes to their aid.

Their “helping 100 businesses for 100 days” has partnered with cities throughout Southern California with the goal of providing support for the business community. “Every city wants to be business friendly” says Norm Bour, Community Development manager with OPIS, “but most cannot define that clearly or offer programs that the business community needs to support that cause.” This program also supports the nonprofit community and teaches them how to operate like a for-profit venture.

Studies have shown that city support is not just about making it easier to get permits or licenses, nor is it by having singular events. For businesses to re-invent and educate themselves takes time and this 13-week program provides those tools. In previous downturns cities were not looked to for more than cursory help. Now everyone is reaching out to anyone that can lend a hand.

With California Redevelopment Agencies on the chopping block, cities may have no department or ways to proactively interface with the business community. OPIS brings together collaborations between cities, chambers of commerce, associations and nonprofits and they believe that economic recovery starts with “One City at a Time, One Business at a Time.” Economic development should start at the local level and grow from there.

The city of San Bernardino recently completed their 100 day graduation and next in line is Newport Beach on January 21, 2012, followed by Costa Mesa in March, 2012,

About OPIS Network
OPIS Network works in partnership with cities, chambers, associations and provides Community Outreach programs for them through their exclusive “helping 100 businesses for 100 days program.” They have worked with the cities of Santa Ana, Buena Park, Newport Beach and San Bernardino and have had over students 1500 go through the program. Several more workshops are scheduled for 2012.

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