The new Topa Business Re- source Center is now in full op- eration at 400 E. Esplanade Drive, Oxnard, offering a one- stop shop of multiple nonprofit organizations and services to empower small businesses, en- trepreneurs, and other profes- sionals with the tools needed for success.

Made possible through col- laboration between the Eco- nomic Development Corpora- tion of Oxnard and Topa Man- agement Company, the center helps create opportunities that recognize business potential and start-ups within the community to keep jobs at home and en- hance the quality of life for lo- cal residents.

The Topa Business Resource Center houses the following.

+Economic Development Corporation of Oxnard: a pri- vate, nonprofit corporation that provides support and develop- ment services to local and relo- cating businesses in Oxnard with "hands-on" assistance and expertise that encourages re- sponsible economic growth and stimulates new and improved job opportunities while enhanc- ing the quality of life within the state and community.

+Women's Economic Ven- tures: a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping women be- come economically self-suffi- cient through entrepreneurship and career development by pro- viding training, access to capi- tal and business services.

+Service Corps of Retired Executives: a nonprofit associa- tion dedicated to entrepreneur

education and the formation, growth and success of small business with volunteer counse- lors who provide individual counseling and business work- shops for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners, from generating and assessing ideas to preparing a business plan, raising capital and managing the operations.

+Ventura County Workforce Investment Board: a state-run agency in response to the man- date of the federal Workforce In- vestment Act of 1998, the board assists the governor in setting and guiding policy in the area of workforce development so that a well-prepared workforce

can create and sustain a healthy business climate by adapting as new technologies develop.

For more information, call (805) 385-7444.