Meet Tola Levison: Empowering Entrepreneurs in Northern California

Meet Tola Levison, a seasoned business advisor who moved to Redding in 2021 from Mendocino County. With a decade of experience at West Business Development Center in Mendocino County, Tola has honed her skills in assisting low-income individuals. During her tenure, she spearheaded various programs tailored to diverse groups, including people receiving disability, CalWORKs, veterans, and the underemployed. Through her guidance, many have transitioned from financial insecurity to economic self-sufficiency by starting successful businesses, building generational wealth along the way.

Tola’s passion for business comes from her own experience starting a business making artisanal stuffed rabbits that were highly sought after by collectors and art galleries. She even sent one to President Clinton as a messenger of her ideas regarding welfare reform. The story was picked up by local newspapers, and when local Social Service Agencies learned of her letter, she was invited to join them as they created “Pathways out of Poverty,” a new paradigm in how welfare programs were delivered in Mendocino County.

Her passion continues as she is inspired by the creativity and resilience of her clients. Tola emphasizes that starting a successful business demands dedication and effort. She believes that with a solid plan and determination, anyone can embark on the journey of entrepreneurship, regardless of their starting point.

Additionally, don't miss the chance to connect with Tola at the following workshops:

Small Business Q&A Drop-In Hours

• Free resources and support for local entrepreneurs and small business owners. Whether you're considering starting your own business or already own one, drop by for guidance and resources. Hosted by the Women’s Business Center at JEDI and Shasta Public Libraries. Tola Levison will answer your small business questions.
• Details:
  • Schedule:
    • 1st Wednesday of each month
    • 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
  • Location: Redding Library, 1100 Parkview Ave, Redding, CA 96001, Foundation Room
  • No appointment necessary
  • Cost: Free
• (Click here to Register)

Start Up Lab 2024

• Network with other entrepreneurs, get business development questions answered, and learn about local resources. Topics include time management, work/life balance, record keeping, budgeting, business licenses, and more.

• Details:

  • Platform: Zoom
  • Schedule:
    • 2nd Monday of each month
    • 11:30 am
  • Cost: Free
• (Click Here to Register)

COMING SOON:

 Unlock Your Financial Future: Join Tola’s "Credit Building as an Asset" Workshops! Get ready to transform your financial landscape with Tola’s upcoming workshops, "Credit Building as an Asset." This comprehensive two-part series will be held in person in the near future at 1670 Market Street, Suite 112. It is designed to equip you with practical strategies for building or rebuilding your credit.

Whether you have no credit history or a low credit score, these workshops are tailored to provide you with the essential tools to enhance your financial standing and unlock better housing options, employment opportunities, secure reliable transportation, and gain greater control over your future.

Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in your financial well-being. Be on the lookout for the future workshop registration and take the first step towards a brighter financial future!

+ GRANT

Verizon Small Business 10k

• Sign Up Before June 28th.
• Access the FREE Online Learning Platform
• Best practices on how to submit your grant application on the platform