Business Grants and Resources for Single Mothers in California
Business Startup, Small Business, and Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in California
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help you can use today
- If your business was hit by the January–summer 2025 California wildfires: Apply for SBA Disaster Loans online and call (800) 659‑2955 for help. Physical damage loans up to $2,000,000, EIDL working‑capital loans, and up to a 12‑month payment deferment are available. Check county eligibility and deadlines on the SBA’s California Wildfires page. SBA California wildfires disaster assistance. (prod.sba.gov, sba.gov)
- If an employee is out on Paid Family Leave and you’re covering their shifts: The California PFL Small Business Grant pays up to 2,000peremployee∗∗onPFLforfirmswith∗∗1–50∗∗employees,and∗∗2,000 per employee** on PFL for firms with **1–50** employees, and **1,000 for firms with 51–100 employees. Apply if the employee’s PFL started on or after June 1, 2024. PFL Small Business Grant details and eligibility. (californiapfl.com)
- If you need immediate cash flow while you sort out loans: Consider a Kiva U.S. crowdfunded business loan at 0% interest up to $15,000 with terms up to 36 months. Apply online; expect a timeline of up to 30–60 days to fund. Kiva U.S. 0% loans and application overview. (kiva.org, kivaushub.org)
Quick Help Box
- Start here: Free, confidential advising from your local SBDC or Women’s Business Center. Use the California finders to get a coach who understands permits, capital, and local rules. Find a CA SBDC and Find a CA Women’s Business Center. (californiasbdc.org, californiawbc.org)
- Form your business correctly: File online with the Secretary of State’s bizfile portal. Typical fees: 70∗∗toformanLLCand∗∗70** to form an LLC and **20 for the required Statement of Information; optional online expedited service 350∗∗(24‑hour)or∗∗350** (24‑hour) or **750 (same‑day). Bizfile Online service options and LLC fees page. (sos.ca.gov)
- Avoid surprise taxes: The California LLC annual franchise tax is $800 and is due the first year for LLCs formed on or after January 1, 2024. A “15‑day rule” can avoid the tax only for very short tax years with no activity. FTB guidance on AB 85 window and 15‑day rule and FTB November 2024 15‑day rule note. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Sell products: Register for a seller’s permit with CDTFA. It’s free; phone help at (800) 400‑7115. Apply for a seller’s permit. (cdtfa.ca.gov)
- Check local grants: Los Angeles County’s 2025 wildfire Small Business Relief Fund offered 2,000–2,000–25,000 cash grants; San Francisco’s Open Downtown grant offers 25,000∗∗tofillavacantstorefrontandSFShinesoffersupto∗∗25,000** to fill a vacant storefront and SF Shines offers up to **10,000–$20,000 for improvements. LA County DEO Relief Fund page and SF Open Downtown/SF Shines announcement. (opportunity.lacounty.gov, sf.gov)
Why this guide is different
- We only link to official, current sources and check dates. You’ll see exact amounts, deadlines, phone numbers, and application windows pulled from state or federal sites. (calosba.ca.gov)
- What the top search results miss: many 2023–2024 lists still promote the California Dream Fund as “open,” gloss over the 2025 Paid Family Leave benefit boost, and skip real filing costs and timelines. Here you’ll see the Dream Fund closed, the new PFL 70–90% wage replacement with a $1,681 weekly maximum, and the real Secretary of State fees with optional expedite levels. California Dream Fund status and EDD PFL 2025 benefit update + max. (cadreamfund.com, edd.ca.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Topic | What to do | Key numbers | Official link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form an LLC | File Articles online; file Statement of Information within 90 days | 70∗∗filing,∗∗70** filing, **20 SOI; expedite 350∗∗(24‑hr)/∗∗350** (24‑hr) / **750 (same day) | Bizfile service options and LLC fees. (sos.ca.gov) |
| EIN | Apply online, free, instant | Phone for international applicants (267) 941‑1099 | IRS EIN application. (irs.gov) |
| Seller’s Permit | Apply with CDTFA | Help line (800) 400‑7115 | CDTFA seller’s permit. (cdtfa.ca.gov) |
| Annual LLC tax | LLCs formed ≥ Jan 1, 2024 owe $800 in first year; 15‑day rule exceptions apply | Due by 15th day of 4th month | FTB November 2024 note and FTB Pub 3556. (ftb.ca.gov) |
| PFL for employees | Up to 8 weeks; wage replacement 70–90%; max $1,681 weekly | Employer grant 1,000–1,000–2,000 per PFL employee | EDD 2025 benefits and PFL SB Grant. (edd.ca.gov, californiapfl.com) |
| Free advising | SBDC, WBC, VBOC | Statewide; NorCal SBDC hotline (833) ASK‑SBDC; LA VBOC (844) 595‑8262 | SBDC locator, CA WBC network, LA Regional VBOC. (californiasbdc.org, californiawbc.org, lavboc.org) |
Build your California business the right way
Step 1 — Register your legal structure
- Best first action: Decide on your structure (sole prop, LLC, corporation) and file online at bizfile. The portal offers user‑guided filings and expedited options if you’re on a deadline. Online expedite: 350∗∗for24‑hour,∗∗350** for 24‑hour, **750 same‑day; in‑person 4‑hour service $500 with preclearance. Service options and expedited fees. (sos.ca.gov)
- Filing costs you’ll actually pay: Most single‑member LLCs pay 70∗∗tofileand∗∗70** to file and **20 for the Statement of Information due within 90 days. Stock corporations pay 100∗∗toformand∗∗100** to form and **25 per annual Statement of Information. LLC fee schedule and corporation fees. (sos.ca.gov)
- Reality check: California’s 800∗∗AnnualFranchiseTaxappliesinYear1forLLCsformedonorafter∗∗January1,2024∗∗.Timingfilingsto“skip”the∗∗800** Annual Franchise Tax applies in Year 1 for LLCs formed on or after **January 1, 2024**. Timing filings to “skip” the **800 only works for short tax years under the 15‑day rule with zero business activity. FTB November 2024 15‑day rule. (ftb.ca.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Book a free session with your local SBDC to choose the cheapest compliant path for your city/county and to review whether an S‑Corp election later could reduce state income tax. Find a CA SBDC. (californiasbdc.org)
Step 2 — Get your EIN and Seller’s Permit
- EIN: Apply free and instantly on IRS.gov. Beware paid intermediaries. Online application is immediate; mail can take four weeks. International filers call (267) 941‑1099. IRS EIN page. (irs.gov)
- Seller’s Permit: If you sell taxable goods, apply with CDTFA. It’s free; CDTFA may request a refundable security deposit later. Call (800) 400‑7115 for help. CDTFA permit FAQs. (cdtfa.ca.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If CDTFA requires a security deposit you can’t post, ask your SBDC/WBC advisor about lowering risk factors (e.g., smaller initial inventory) and explore Kiva’s 0% loans up to $15,000 to cover setup costs. Kiva U.S.. (kiva.org)
Step 3 — Local licenses and city business taxes
- San Francisco: 2025–26 business registration fees for small gross receipts start at 41∗∗plusa∗∗41** plus a **4 state disability access fee for the July 1, 2025–March 31, 2026 transition period. “First Year Free” waives initial registration/permit fees for eligible new storefronts begun on or after July 1, 2023. SF Treasurer registration fees and First Year Free and program page. (sftreasurer.org)
- San Diego: Business Tax Certificate is 34∗∗plus∗∗34** plus **4 SB 1186 fee; from July 1, 2025, an extra $1.47 per employee applies for the Minimum Wage Enforcement Fee. Phone (619) 615‑1500. City of San Diego business tax rates and how to apply. (sandiego.gov)
- Los Angeles (city): You must obtain a Business Tax Registration Certificate. Many micro‑businesses under $100,000 in global gross receipts can qualify for a Small Business Exemption if they file on time. Start at the Office of Finance; note some classes owe minimum taxes (e.g., contractors). Key contacts and FAQs show the minimums and due dates. LA Office of Finance registration, Small Business Exemption FAQ, and Know Your Rates. (finance.lacity.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the state’s permit navigator for tailored contacts. Phone GO‑Biz permit assistance at (877) 345‑4633 and search CalGOLD for your city/county. Permit assistance. (ca.gov)
Funding and grants you can realistically access
A. State and local grants and incentives (with real amounts)
- Paid Family Leave Small Business Grant: Up to 2,000∗∗perPFLemployeeforbusinesseswith∗∗1–50∗∗employees;∗∗2,000** per PFL employee for businesses with **1–50** employees; **1,000 for 51–100 employees. Valid when an employee uses California PFL on or after June 1, 2024. Apply at the official portal after gathering your employee’s EDD Customer Account Number. Eligibility and amounts. (californiapfl.com)
- California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC): Not a cash grant, but a highly competitive income tax credit with application windows each fiscal year. FY 2025–26 windows: July 21–August 11, 2025, January 5–26, 2026, March 2–16, 2026; hundreds of millions are available. Small businesses compete on job creation and investment; free webinars precede each period. Contact (916) 322‑4051. CCTC program page and 2025–26 timeline. (business.ca.gov)
- San Francisco Open Downtown Grant: 25,000∗∗forsmallbusinessesactivatingvacantdowntownspacesin2025;plusSFShinesstorefrontimprovementgrantsupto∗∗25,000** for small businesses activating vacant downtown spaces in 2025; plus SF Shines storefront improvement grants up to **10,000–$20,000. City announcement. (sf.gov)
- LA County Small Business Relief Fund (2025 wildfires): Cash grants 2,000–2,000–25,000 for businesses and nonprofits in impacted zones; window closed in March 2025 with phased disbursements, and future rounds may be announced. Bookmark the DEO page. LA County Fund page. (opportunity.lacounty.gov)
- California Dream Fund: The state microgrant program (up to $10,000) that required completion of TAEP‑center training is closed. Don’t pay any third‑party promising Dream Fund grants; Lendistry was the official intermediary. Status and fraud warning. (cadreamfund.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Focus on no‑ or low‑interest capital you can actually get (Kiva 0%; SBA Microloans), and pair it with free technical assistance to get “capital‑ready.” See below for IBank, CalCAP, SBA, and community options.
B. California state‑backed capital programs (easier than traditional bank underwriting)
- IBank Small Business Loan Guarantee (SBLG): Lenders make the loan; IBank guarantees up to 80% with a maximum guarantee of 5,000,000∗∗onloansupto∗∗5,000,000** on loans up to **20,000,000. Reach an FDC near you (e.g., PCR Business Finance (213) 739‑2999; California Capital FDC (916) 442‑1729). IBank SBLG overview and participating lenders and FDC list. (ibank.ca.gov, ibank.ca.gov)
- CalCAP for Small Business (State Treasurer): Lender and borrower each contribute 2–3.5% of the enrolled loan amount; the program matches, building a reserve that can cover up to 100% of defaulted principal for enrolled loans. Max loan 5,000,000∗∗;maxenrolledamount∗∗5,000,000**; max enrolled amount **2,500,000. Extra match for severely affected communities. CalCAP SB program details. (treasurer.ca.gov)
- CalCAP Collateral Support: Helps when you lack collateral; cash pledges support loans 25,000–25,000–20,000,000, with maximum cash pledge up to $10,000,000. CalCAP CS. (treasurer.ca.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your lender to contact an FDC or enroll in CalCAP; if they won’t, take your deal sheet to an FDC yourself and ask for warm introductions to partner banks/credit unions. Participating lenders and FDCs. (ibank.ca.gov)
C. Federal capital and grants that actually fit startups
- SBA Microloans: Up to 50,000∗∗(averageabout∗∗50,000** (average about **13,000), terms up to 7 years, interest typically 8–13% via nonprofit intermediaries. Use for working capital, supplies, equipment; not for refinancing or real estate. SBA Microloans. (sba.gov)
- SBA 7(a) and 504 loans: 7(a) up to $5,000,000 for working capital, equipment, and acquisitions; 504 offers fixed‑rate financing for real estate/equipment with 10–25‑year terms. Rates are capped relative to prime/Treasury; guarantee fees vary by loan size. SBA 7(a) and SBA 504. (sba.gov)
- SBIR/STTR (technology/R&D only): Non‑dilutive federal R&D awards. Examples: NSF Phase I up to 305,000∗∗andPhaseIIupto∗∗305,000** and Phase II up to **1,250,000 per NSF’s 2024 update; NIH 2025 Omnibus caps 306,872∗∗(PhaseI)and∗∗306,872** (Phase I) and **2,045,816 (Phase II) absent a topic waiver. Always verify agency caps. NSF award increase announcement and NIAID 2025 budget cap guidance. (nsf.gov, niaid.nih.gov)
- Kiva U.S. 0% loans: Up to $15,000, 0% interest, up to 36 months. You’ll need to mobilize friends/customers to lend during a private fundraising period, then go public to Kiva’s network. Kiva U.S.. (kiva.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Work with an SBDC/WBC to strengthen cash‑flow projections and revisit SBA Microloan or an IBank‑guaranteed bank loan; consider starting with Kiva 3,000–3,000–5,000 to build traction and return for a bigger loan in 6–12 months. Find SBDC/WBC and CA WBCs. (californiasbdc.org, californiawbc.org)
Tables you can scan fast
Table 1 — Startup filings, taxes, and permits
| Item | Cost or deadline | Where to do it | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| LLC Articles of Organization: | $70 | Bizfile Online | File Statement of Information in 90 days ($20). (sos.ca.gov) |
| Optional expedite: | 350∗∗(24h)/∗∗350** (24h) / **750 (same‑day) / $500 (4‑hour in‑person) | Service options | Plan only if you truly need speed. (sos.ca.gov) |
| Annual LLC tax: | $800; first year due for formations ≥ Jan 1, 2024 | Franchise Tax Board | 15‑day rule applies only to short, inactive tax years. (ftb.ca.gov) |
| Seller’s Permit: | Free | CDTFA | Phone (800) 400‑7115. (cdtfa.ca.gov) |
Table 2 — Top state/local grants and incentives (2025)
| Program | Amount | Timeline | Who it helps |
|---|---|---|---|
| PFL Small Business Grant: | 1,000–1,000–2,000 per PFL employee | Open; employee PFL start ≥ June 1, 2024 | Employers covering shifts while a worker is on PFL. (californiapfl.com) |
| California Competes Tax Credit: | Competitive tax credit; FY 2025–26 pot $922.7M across rounds | Windows: Jul 21–Aug 11, 2025, Jan 5–26, 2026, Mar 2–16, 2026 | Job‑creating small businesses planning to grow in CA. (business.ca.gov) |
| SF Open Downtown: | $25,000 | “Early 2025” launch; rolling | Businesses filling vacant storefronts downtown. (sf.gov) |
| LA County 2025 Wildfire Relief: | 2,000–2,000–25,000 | Feb–Mar 2025 (closed; watch for new waves) | Businesses/nonprofits in fire‑impacted zones. (opportunity.lacounty.gov) |
Table 3 — State‑supported capital (easier approvals)
| Program | Max loan | State support | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| IBank SBLG: | Up to $20,000,000 | Up to 80% guarantee; max guarantee $5,000,000 | FDCs: PCR (213) 739‑2999, CalCap FDC (916) 442‑1729. (ibank.ca.gov, ibank.ca.gov) |
| CalCAP for Small Business: | 5,000,000∗∗loan;∗∗5,000,000** loan; **2,500,000 enrolled | Reserve can cover up to 100% of lender losses for enrolled loans | Email calcap@treasurer.ca.gov. (treasurer.ca.gov) |
| CalCAP Collateral Support: | 25,000–25,000–20,000,000 | Cash pledge to back insufficient collateral; max pledge $10,000,000 | State Treasurer’s CPCFA. (treasurer.ca.gov) |
Table 4 — Free technical assistance (by who you are)
| You are… | First call | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Any single mom entrepreneur: | SBDC advisor | NorCal hotline (833) ASK‑SBDC; local center finder. (norcalsbdc.org) |
| Woman entrepreneur wanting women‑centered help: | Women’s Business Center | Use location finder to pick the closest WBC. (californiawbc.org) |
| Veteran or military spouse: | VBOC (LA Regional or SoCal/NorCal) | LA Regional (844) 595‑8262; SoCal (760) 795‑8739; NorCal (916) 527‑8400. (lavboc.org, socalvboc.org, sba.gov) |
| Contracting with government: | APEX Accelerator (PTAC) | NorCal APEX (707) 267‑7561; American Indian Chamber APEX (213) 341‑0104; Monterey Bay (831) 216‑3000. (apexnorcal.org, aicef-apex.org, montereybayapex.org) |
Table 5 — City business tax/licensing snapshots
| City | Typical entry cost | Key notes |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco: | Registration starts at 41∗∗+∗∗41** + **4; many storefront fees waived first year | “First Year Free” for qualifying new storefronts; renewal deadline aligns March 31 starting 2026. (sftreasurer.org) |
| San Diego: | 34∗∗+∗∗34** + **4 state fee; +$1.47 per employee from July 1, 2025 | Late fees after 15 days from start date. Phone (619) 615‑1500. (sandiego.gov) |
| Los Angeles (city): | Registration required; many under 100,000∗∗receiptspay∗∗100,000** receipts pay **0 with timely Small Business Exemption | Rates vary by industry; see Office of Finance tables. (business.lacity.gov, finance.lacity.gov) |
Income support while you build your business
- Paid Family Leave (PFL) and Disability Insurance (DI): For claims starting January 1, 2025 or later, wage replacement is 70–90% with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,681. Eligible workers get up to 8 weeks of PFL and up to 52 weeks of DI. EDD 2025 benefit update. (edd.ca.gov)
- Self‑employed option: Enroll in EDD’s Disability Insurance Elective Coverage (DIEC) to access DI/PFL as a self‑employed mom. 2025 DIEC premium rate is 9.65% of your prior net profit; benefits follow the same 50–50–1,681 weekly range. DIEC Unit (916) 654‑6288. DIEC benefits/premiums and DIEC overview. (edd.ca.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If cash flow is still tight, layer a Kiva 0% loan for small equipment/launch costs and use your WBC/SBDC to tighten your budget and revenue plan. Kiva U.S. and CA WBC. (kiva.org, californiawbc.org)
Permits and compliance without the runaround
- Get answers fast: Use CalGOLD/GO‑Biz permit assistance and call (877) 345‑4633 for help connecting to the correct agency. Permit assistance. (ca.gov)
- Avoid deceptive mailers: Ignore third‑party “pay us to file your Statement of Information” letters charging far more than the state’s 20–20–25 fee. File directly on bizfile. SOS consumer alert. (sos.ca.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your filing was rejected or you’re stuck, visit a local SBDC/WBC—many walk through filings live over Zoom. SBDC finder. (californiasbdc.org)
Sell to the State of California (steady clients, faster payments)
- Certification pays: State law and policy aim for at least 25% of state contracting dollars to go to certified Small Businesses and 3% to Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises. For public works, the SB‑PW certification raises size limits to average receipts of $43,000,000. CalOSBA procurement overview and DGS SB‑PW eligibility. (calosba.ca.gov, dgs.ca.gov)
- Regular SB certification threshold: Many departments still reference SB eligibility at average gross receipts ≤ $15,000,000 (or ≤ 100 employees for manufacturers). Check DGS guidance and apply online. Caltrans SB overview. (dot.ca.gov)
- APEX Accelerators (formerly PTACs): Free coaching on SAM.gov, Cal eProcure, bid strategy, and certifications. Examples: NorCal APEX (707) 267‑7561, American Indian Chamber APEX (213) 341‑0104, Monterey Bay APEX (831) 216‑3000. NorCal APEX, AICEF APEX, Monterey Bay APEX. (apexnorcal.org, aicef-apex.org, montereybayapex.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your APEX advisor to set up custom bid‑matching emails and review your first proposal draft—they do this at no cost and it saves weeks. NorCal APEX services. (apexnorcal.org)
Local organizations and real‑world examples
- San Francisco “Vacant to Vibrant” pop‑ups: City‑backed program turning empty spaces into 3‑month pop‑ups with technical assistance; success stories are now signing long‑term leases. Apply if you have a ready retail concept. Vacant to Vibrant program and FAQ with 2025 timeline. (vibrantsf.org)
- Women’s Entrepreneurship Fund (SF): Mini‑grants up to $5,000 for women‑owned small businesses (periodically paused due to demand). Contact MEDA at (628) 333‑7941 for the next round. MEDA SF Women’s Entrepreneurship Fund. (medasf.org)
- Minority Business Development Agency centers: For high‑growth goals (contracts/capital), check the San Jose MBDA Business Center ((408) 998‑8058 x137) and Los Angeles MBDA Business Center ((213) 353‑9400). Note that MBDA’s network has seen changes in 2025; verify center status before visiting. MBDA San Jose and MBDA Los Angeles. (mbda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use SBDC/WBC until MBDA capacity in your area is confirmed or restored; they can still help with procurement, investor readiness, and capital access. SBDC locator. (californiasbdc.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not budgeting for California’s $800 LLC tax: Many new LLCs formed in 2025 owe it in Year 1. Plan for it and the due date (15th day of 4th month from formation). FTB Pub 3556. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Paying someone for a free EIN: The EIN is free and instant on IRS.gov. IRS EIN. (irs.gov)
- Ignoring the Statement of Information: It’s 20–20–25 and quick online. Avoid bogus mailers charging hundreds. SOS alert. (sos.ca.gov)
- Believing every “grant” ad: California Dream Fund is closed; verify any grant on the state Grants Portal or a city site. Dream Fund status. (cadreamfund.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Before paying any fee, run it by an SBDC/WBC advisor; they’ll spot scams and steer you to legitimate programs. SBDC finder. (californiasbdc.org)
Application checklist
- Business structure chosen and filed: LLC Articles or Articles of Incorporation; Statement of Information within 90 days. SOS filing tips. (sos.ca.gov)
- EIN confirmation letter: Download and save the IRS CP‑575 PDF. IRS EIN. (irs.gov)
- Seller’s Permit: Account number and login for returns. CDTFA: (800) 400‑7115. CDTFA FAQ. (cdtfa.ca.gov)
- City registration/license: SF, LA, San Diego or your local city/county. See contacts above. (sandiego.gov, finance.lacity.gov)
- Business bank account and bookkeeping setup: Your lender (SBA/IBank/Kiva) will ask for clean statements and P&L.
- If hiring: EDD employer account and workers’ comp; consider the PFL SB Grant if staff need leave. PFL SB Grant. (californiapfl.com)
- Capital plan: One primary source (SBA Microloan/IBank‑backed loan) plus a backup (Kiva 0%). (sba.gov, ibank.ca.gov, kiva.org)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Where to start: a Women’s Business Center familiar with LGBTQ+‑owned certification pathways and inclusive lending. Why it helps: Many city procurement teams actively seek LGBTQ+‑owned vendors; your WBC can pair that with SBDC capital support. CA WBC network. (californiawbc.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or raising a disabled child: Why it matters: PFL now replaces up to 90% of wages for lower‑income workers starting 2025, making it more feasible to take caregiving leave. For accessible storefront retrofits, ask lenders about CalCAP/ADA loans (max enrolled $50,000). EDD 2025 PFL benefits and CalCAP/ADA. (edd.ca.gov, treasurer.ca.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Use VBOC first: LA Regional VBOC (844) 595‑8262 or SoCal VBOC (760) 795‑8739 for business planning and government contracts; add APEX for certifications and bids. VBOC directory. (sba.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Good path: Kiva 0% loans and SBA Microloans (credit‑building and flexible underwriting). WBCs offer multilingual classes. Kiva U.S. and SBA Microloans. (kiva.org, sba.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Contracting: American Indian Chamber APEX (213) 341‑0104 can help your Native‑owned firm get certified and pursue contracts. AICEF APEX. (aicef-apex.org)
- Rural single moms: Capital: IBank guarantees and CalCAP can make local banks say “yes” where they’d normally say “no.” Pair with your regional SBDC and APEX for rural contracting opportunities. IBank SBLG and CalCAP SB. (ibank.ca.gov, treasurer.ca.gov)
- Single fathers (same needs, different name): Who can help: SBDC/WBC welcome you; PFL applies regardless of gender if you pay into SDI or enroll in DIEC. DIEC info. (edd.ca.gov)
- Language access: WBCs/SBDCs provide assistance in many languages; CalOSBA prioritizes underserved communities across 30+ languages statewide. CalOSBA overview. (calosba.ca.gov)
FAQs (California‑specific)
- How fast can I get my EIN: Immediately online; mail takes about four weeks. IRS EIN. (irs.gov)
- Do I owe the $800 LLC tax in my first year: Yes if formed on or after January 1, 2024. The old waiver period ended December 31, 2023. FTB guidance. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Is there a real, statewide grant to start a business now: The California Dream Fund microgrant is closed; watch for city/county grants (e.g., SF Open Downtown $25,000). Dream Fund status and SF program. (cadreamfund.com, sf.gov)
- How do I avoid paying for a fake filing service: File directly on bizfile; ignore scary mailers about Statements of Information. SOS alert. (sos.ca.gov)
- Where can I get a no‑interest loan: Kiva up to $15,000 at 0%. Plan 30–60 days to fund. Kiva U.S.. (kiva.org)
- Can I get help in Spanish or another language: Yes—WBCs/SBDCs and CalOSBA partners provide multilingual services. CalOSBA. (calosba.ca.gov)
- What if my employee takes PFL—can I get help: Apply for the PFL SB Grant (1,000–1,000–2,000 per employee). PFL SB Grant. (californiapfl.com)
- I’m self‑employed—can I get PFL: Yes, if you enroll in DIEC; 2025 benefits pay up to $1,681/week with 70–90% wage replacement. DIEC benefits 2025. (edd.ca.gov)
- How do I find government contract opportunities: Get certified (Small Business/SB‑PW or DVBE) and work with an APEX Accelerator. DGS certification and NorCal APEX. (dgs.ca.gov, apexnorcal.org)
- What if a disaster shuts me down again: Apply for SBA Disaster Loans (up to $2,000,000) and use free SBA help at (800) 659‑2955; interest may be as low as 4% for small businesses with up to 12 months before first payment. SBA disaster info for CA. (prod.sba.gov)
Reality checks, timelines, and tips
- Grant timelines: City/county grants often open briefly and close fast. Set calendar alerts for city newsletters and CalOSBA updates. CCTC runs three windows per fiscal year (July/August, January, March). CCTC timeline. (business.ca.gov)
- Loan timelines: Kiva 30–60 days; SBA Microloans 2–6 weeks; IBank‑guaranteed loans depend on the lender—expect 3–8 weeks once your package is complete. SBA Microloan basics. (sba.gov)
- Permit timelines: CDTFA permits can be issued quickly online; city licenses range from same day to 2–3 weeks depending on inspections. CDTFA permits overview. (cdtfa.ca.gov)
What to do if a path doesn’t work (Plan B options)
- Bank said no to a loan: Ask the lender to place your loan under IBank SBLG or CalCAP; if they won’t, take your package to an FDC for introductions. Meanwhile, launch with a Kiva 3,000–3,000–10,000 starter. (ibank.ca.gov, treasurer.ca.gov)
- No open grants: Focus on cost‑sharing opportunities (e.g., CCTC tax credits) and place yourself on city mailing lists (SF OEWD, LA County DEO). (business.ca.gov, opportunity.lacounty.gov)
- Staffing gaps due to family leave: Use the PFL SB Grant to cross‑train and maintain service levels. (californiapfl.com)
- Disaster interruption: File with SBA disaster promptly; you can apply for FEMA and SBA simultaneously. Phone (800) 659‑2955. (sba.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from California agencies, USDA, HUD, SBA, and established nonprofits. It follows our site’s research standards and links directly to government portals and hotlines for each program. See our full Editorial Standards for verification practices and update timelines. Editorial Standards. This page is independent and not affiliated with government agencies.
Last verified: September 2025, next review April 2026.
Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org — we respond within 48–72 hours.
Disclaimer
Important: Program amounts, deadlines, and eligibility can change with new laws or funding. Always verify on the linked official websites or by calling the listed agencies before you spend money or submit applications. This article is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice. For security, do not email sensitive personal information; apply only on official government sites linked above.
🏛️More California Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in California
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
