The 23rd Annual Economic Development Conference hosted by the National Diversity Coalition on May 22 provided a critical forum for learning about what makes small businesses tick and what helps them move forward. Small Business Development Corporation of Orange County Chief Executive Officer Michael Ocasio shared his knowledge and insights as part of a panel that addressed the various stages of entrepreneurship, from the first lightbulb idea through to creating a strong business blueprint and building recurring revenue.

The panel was facilitated by Advancing The Seed, Inc. (ATS) founder and chief executive officer Regeanie Corona. The panel’s discussions included actionable next steps that entrepreneurs can apply to their business planning. “These are the types of events that help facilitate economic growth in our state and SBDC-OC was privileged to be a part of it,” Ocasio said.