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Bellflower reports 165 graduates from Imprendedoras; 80 opened businesses
Summary
Staff reported Imprendedoras has produced 165 graduates, 80 of whom opened businesses and 47 remained active as of January 2026; Maker to Market and the Bellflower Entrepreneurial Academy were discussed as complementary programs.
City staff reviewed the status and outcomes of several entrepreneurial programs during the Aug. 10 presentation.
“With 7 cohorts with Imprendedoras in 5 years, we have a lot more history and a lot more data to go with [it],” Jim Delonge said. Delonge reported the program totaled 165 graduates, 80 of whom opened businesses, and that 47 remained in business as of January 2026. He added that 42 businesses opened in Bellflower as a result of program participants (including home‑based and brick‑and‑mortar operations).
Staff also described program adjustments: 37 Oaks was discontinued for low enrollment and completion rates, Maker to Market launched in 2024 (a partnership with Long Beach City College SBDC and others) and the Bellflower Entrepreneurial Academy began in spring 2025 as an English‑language cohort. Staff tied these programs to downtown activation and vendor recruitment for the Bellflower Farmers Market.
