Entrepreneurship center aims to generate $1 Billion in Economic Impact

The Randall W. Lewis Center for Entrepreneurship (RLCE) at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) recently launched a bold new initiative to generate $1 billion in economic impact by 2028 with the goal being to empower small businesses and drive sustainable growth across the Inland Empire region.

“This ambitious goal is not just about numbers—it’s about transformation,” said Dr. Mike Stull, Director of the Randall W. Lewis Center for Entrepreneurship. “We are committed to supporting our entrepreneurs, nurturing innovation, and creating long-term economic growth in the Inland Empire. By reaching $1 billion in economic impact, we will solidify our region as a thriving hub for business development and a model for the future of entrepreneurship.”

The RLCE has been a leading resource for entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners for more than two decades. The Center provides support through business counseling and educational programs, as well as access to a network of investors, mentors, and industry leaders.

The RLCE’s $1 billion economic impact goal will be realized through a series of strategic initiatives, including:

• Leveraging Entrepreneurial Resource Centers (ERC): Located in San Bernardino, Palm Desert and Temecula, the RLCE will continue to expand the programs and services offered through its ERCs, including the addition of additional affiliate partners – organizations that work closely with the Center to deliver unique and targeted business assistance programs at each location.
• Expanding educational offerings: The RLCE will launch new programs to equip entrepreneurs with innovative business strategies and skills, addressing the unique challenges faced by startups in today’s rapidly evolving economy.
• Strengthening access to capital: The initiative will include enhanced support for connecting entrepreneurs with funding opportunities, from angel investors to venture capital firms, ensuring that businesses have the financial resources they need to grow.
• Fostering innovation and job creation: By fostering partnerships between businesses, local government, and academic institutions, the RLCE will stimulate innovation and drive job creation across the region.
• Providing tailored mentorship and networking opportunities: Entrepreneurs will benefit from personalized coaching and exclusive networking events designed to connect them with industry leaders, peers, and potential collaborators.

Over the past 20 years, the Center has helped launch more than 2,300 startups, provided crucial resources to nearly 200,000 entrepreneurs, and facilitated the creation and retention of more than 54,000 jobs in the region. The result of its services has helped entrepreneurs gain access to capital and increase sales, recording an economic impact of $846 million.

For more information about the RLCE and its initiatives, visit www.entre.csusb.edu.