Business Expansion & Retention (BEAR)

BEAR Action Network

The Economic Development Corporation’s Business Expansion, Attraction, and Retention (BEAR) Action Network program is designed to enhance the stability and growth of Fresno County’s existing companies by connecting them with specific resources, information, and services offered through the Network. Their primary objectives are to assist businesses with expansions, survive economic difficulties, and make them more competitive in the wider marketplace. Company CEOs and Branch Managers have been very appreciative of this proactive and valuable resource and are quickly taking advantage of it!

The Business Expansion and Retention Program, known as the BEAR Action Network, is the California Association for Local Economic Development’s 2009 grand prize winner in the category of Economic Development Partnerships. The BEAR Action Network is a collaborative partnership program featuring a world-class business support matrix that has enhanced the stability and growth of existing businesses, resulting in increased job creation, more capital investment and has helped elevate the local tax base by connecting local businesses in Fresno County with public and private business resources.

“This extremely marketable program is the epitome of a public/private partnership benefitting everyone involved,” says Steve Geil, president and CEO of the EDC.