Small Business Committee (SBC)

Small businesses are the soul of San José. They are the cafés that know your order, the service providers who live in your neighborhood, the innovators building tomorrow’s solutions today. They create jobs, spark ideas, and connect us to one another.

But while small businesses fuel our economy and enrich our community, they often do so without support—navigating resource limitations, regulatory complexities, and shifting market realities alone.

The Small Business Committee (SBC) is a dedicated initiative within the San José Chamber of Commerce that exists to empower San José’s small businesses to succeed, adapt, and thrive in an ever-changing business landscape. We do that by providing small businesses with avenues for support, collaboration, and growth through workshops led by expert practitioners, networking opportunities, growth initiatives, policy advocacy, and more. We are here to ensure that small business owners are not only heard but supported and included at every level of decision-making that affects their success.

We envision a San José where small businesses flourish, enriching the city’s economic vitality and creating a more vibrant and inclusive social fabric.

Job Opportunity: Chamber seeking team member to support Small Business Committee

The San Jose Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that our Small Business Initiative has received its first grant from The San Francisco Foundation (SFF). We are deeply grateful to SFF for investing in this new idea and helping bring it to life.

With this support, the Chamber will expand its programs, workshops, and networking opportunities for small businesses in partnership with the City, local nonprofits, and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

As we grow this initiative, our vision is to build a dedicated Small Business Department to serve and advocate for the city’s vibrant small business community. To help lead this effort, the Chamber is seeking a new team member to support the Small Business Committee’s growing work.

The job description can be downloaded below. Interested candidates can send a cover letter and resume, or direct any questions, to info@sjchamber.com.

Download Job Description

Committee Goals

SUPPORT

Providing resources, education, and advocacy to empower small businesses.

COLLABORATION

Facilitating cross-industry partnerships and networking opportunities.

GROWTH

Offering tools and insights that promote the long-term success of local businesses.

Small Business Resources

ADA Compliance Toolkit

Ensure your business is accessible to all with this ADA compliance guide and resource list created by the San Jose Chamber of Commerce.

City of San Jose Business Resources

Explore the tools, programs, and services the City of San Jose offers to help local businesses thrive.

Latino Business Foundation Silicon Valley

The Latino Business Foundation of Silicon Valley empowers Latino entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and community connections.

Marketing Toolkit Handout

A practical, action-focused workbook designed to help small business owners quickly identify their ideal customers, define their brand, and attract more clients.

Rapid Response Network (RRN)

A community defense project developed to protect immigrant families from deportation threats and to provide accompaniment support during and after a community member’s arrest or detention. Anyone can call the 24/7 HOTLINE (408) 290-1144 to report ICE activity in our county and receive help in real time!

SCORE Silicon Valley

SCORE is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting small businesses through free mentoring and educational resources.

Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

The SBDC offers free and low-cost programs and trainings for small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs in San Jose.