Launchpad

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

The Bakersfield College Launchpad provides resources and educational workshops for entrepreneurs to help start and grow businesses in our community. The Launchpad is a resource guide by delivering educational opportunities and support services, and through fostering collaboration to empower you with entrepreneurial resources.

With the help of community partners, Bakersfield College Launchpad is here to help you find your way through the winding roads of starting a business. We collaborate with Kern County community business leaders to determine what skills are needed to survive and compete in the current marketplace.

Help for Small Businesses

Grant Program

The Entrepreneurship Technical Grant Program is funded by the City’s allocation of federal American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”) funds, specifically through the City’s Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (“SLFRF”). This program launched in July 2023, implementing the City Council's strategic goal to strengthen and diversify the economic base by equitably, efficiently, and strategically deploying ARPA-allocated funds. This grant opportunity is CLOSED. For more information on future grant opportunities and programs, please email the BC Launchpad below.

Email Launchpad

Free Resources and Courses

Whether you have an idea, are just starting out, have been in the workplace, or have an existing business that you wish to grow. This is an effective, convenient, and affordable way to rapidly acquire the skills you need. We welcome start-ups and small business throughout Kern County.

Located in the heart of Bakersfield, the Launchpad offers free resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout Kern County.

We offer several tuition free noncredit courses to enhance your business skills. Earn certificates of completion in office skills, sales, entrepreneurship and more.

For the certificate of completion application after completing your courses, got to CE Certificate Applications.

Noncredit Certificates of Completion

Entrepreneurship & Innovation Academy

We offer several noncredit certificates to improve your business skills. Whether you're interested in refining your office skills or diving into the world of entrepreneurship, we're committed to supporting your journey to success. This academy offers four Certificates of Completion: Entrepreneurship, Small Business Funding, Small Business Development, and Small Business Execution.

Enroll in the Academy Today

Location

The Launchpad is located in the heart of Bakersfield to assure it is the center of free resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout Kern County. We are located in the Weill Institute: