Officials with the City of Escalon recently announced the launch of two new economic development grant programs with support from Oak Valley Community Bank, designed to support local entrepreneurs, strengthen existing businesses, and expand economic opportunity across the community. These programs represent a major step forward in the city’s efforts to invest in job creation, business growth, and long-term economic vitality.
At a recent city council meeting, representatives of Oak Valley Community Bank were on hand for a commemorative check presentation, having committed $20,000 in financial support to help expand the reach of these programs.
“Oak Valley Community Bank’s commitment reflects the strength of our local relationships and the shared belief that investing in small businesses is investing in Escalon’s future,” said Mayor Andrew ‘Andy’ Hagan. “We are grateful for their leadership and support.”
The New Business Grant Program and the Business Expansion Grant Program are part of the city’s newly adopted 2026 Economic Development Incentive Program, a comprehensive initiative approved by the City Council to invest in job creation, business growth, and long-term economic vitality.
“We are proud to support Escalon’s efforts to strengthen its small‑business community,” said Jose Sabala, SVP CRA Officer, Oak Valley Community Bank. “Local entrepreneurs and growing businesses are essential to the economic health of the region, and we are committed to investing in the communities we serve.”
The city has allocated $40,000 in Measure P funds to launch the two grant programs. With the additional private sector support committed by Oak Valley Community Bank, the programs now have a total of $60,000. These programs reflect Escalon’s commitment to becoming an active partner in the success of small businesses — the backbone of the local economy and a key driver of community identity, innovation, and opportunity, noted City Manager Jaylen French and Development and Community Services Manager Trevin Barber. The launch of these programs marks a major milestone in the city’s 2025-2026 Strategic Plan, which identified economic development as a top organizational priority. The programs were designed to be transparent, performance-based, and aligned with best practices.
The programs “represent the first phase of Escalon’s long‑term economic development strategy” said officials, with additional tools and initiatives to be developed through the city’s forthcoming Economic Development Strategic Plan.
“These programs send a clear message: Escalon is open for business, and we are committed to helping local entrepreneurs and employers succeed,” said Mayor Hagan. “Small businesses create jobs, spark innovation, and shape the character of our community. We are proud to support them.”
New Business Grant Program: The New Business Grant Program provides flexible funding to early-stage entrepreneurs and new businesses seeking to launch in Escalon. Grants may be used for equipment, inventory, marketing, technology, or other start-up needs that help new ventures open their doors and begin serving the community. The program includes a competitive application process, clear performance expectations, and simple reporting requirements to ensure accountability and public benefit.
Business Expansion Grant Program: The Business Expansion Grant Program supports existing Escalon businesses that are ready to grow. Eligible uses include equipment purchases, facility improvements, technology upgrades, workforce training, and activities that help businesses enter new markets or increase production capacity. The program is designed to strengthen Escalon’s traded-sector businesses — those that sell goods or services outside the local market — and to support job creation and long-term competitiveness.
How to Apply: Interested businesses are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements and submit a two-page proposal electronically to devservices@cityofescalon.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.
Program guidelines and evaluation criteria will be available on the City of Escalon website at www.cityofescalon.org. For questions or assistance, businesses may also contact the Development and Community Services Department at devservices@cityofescalon.org or by calling 209-691-7427.
