Escalon, CA — February 17 — The City of Escalon is launching two new economic development grant programs with support from Oak Valley Community Bank designed to launch 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.
The City is pleased to share that Oak Valley Community Bank has 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 Hagan. “We are grateful for their leadership and support.”
“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 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. The City has allocated $40,000 in Measure P funds to launch the two grant programs. With an 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.
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. These programs represent the first phase of Escalon’s long‑term economic development strategy, 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 Andrew 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 [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. Program guidelines, and evaluation criteria will be available on the City’s website at Start‑Up Pitch Grant Application (https://www.cityofescalon.org/b_u_s_i_n_e_s_s/business_assistance/start__up_pitch_grant_application)
For questions or assistance, businesses may contact the Development and Community Services Department at [email protected] or (209) 691‑7427.
About the City of Escalon
The City of Escalon is a welcoming, close‑knit community located in the heart of California’s Central Valley. Escalon blends small‑town charm with a strong agricultural heritage and a commitment to high‑quality public services. With a strategic location between the two large population and industry centers (Stockton and Modesto), Escalon serves as a gateway for commerce, recreation, and regional connectivity. The City is dedicated to fostering a resilient local economy, supporting entrepreneurs, and creating opportunities that enhance quality of life for residents and businesses alike. Through collaborative partnerships and forward‑thinking initiatives, Escalon continues to build a vibrant future rooted in community and shared prosperity.
About Oak Valley Community Bank
Oak Valley Bancorp operates Oak Valley Community Bank, and its Eastern Sierra Community Bank division, delivering a comprehensive range of loan and deposit solutions to individuals, businesses, and organizations. Rooted in a strong commitment to local economic vitality, small business growth, and community investment, the Bank serves communities throughout California’s Central Valley, Sierra foothills, and Eastern Sierra region. Oak Valley Community Bank currently operates 19 conveniently located branches, including Oakdale, Turlock, Stockton, Patterson, Ripon, Escalon, Manteca, Tracy, Sacramento, Roseville, Lodi, two branches in Sonora, three branches in Modesto, and three Eastern Sierra division branches serving Bridgeport, Mammoth Lakes, and Bishop.