No-cost internships and subsidized wage and training programs are available to businesses with fewer than five employees. The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) has launched a suite of workforce programs offering fully funded hiring assistance, paid internships, and subsidized employee training to local small businesses. Administered through America’s Job Center of California (AJCC), the programs are designed specifically for microbusinesses, sole proprietors, and family-owned businesses with fewer than five employees.
The programs help small businesses reduce the cost of hiring and training employees, providing support to businesses that may not have dedicated HR staff or resources for workforce development.
Available resources include:
- Funded Work Experience Programs: Businesses can host an intern or temporary worker to assist with daily operations, digital marketing, or specialized projects. The program covers 100% of the participant’s wages during the placement period.
- On-the-Job Training (OJT) Subsidies: Businesses making a permanent hire may be reimbursed for up to 50% of a new employee’s wages during the initial training period, reducing the cost of onboarding.
- Incumbent Worker Training: Microbusinesses can access funding to train existing employees in new software, specialized equipment, or industry certifications through qualified third-party training providers.
“Microbusinesses are the economic backbone of commercial corridors from the Westside of Ventura to South Oxnard and the Santa Clara River Valley,” said Cynthia Avila, Business Solutions Manager at the WDBVC. “However, the time and financial commitment required to train an intern or hire an assistant can feel out of reach for a solo entrepreneur. These programs are designed to remove that barrier by helping cover wage and training costs, allowing business owners to expand their operations while reducing the financial burden.”
To qualify for these business support services, businesses must have a physical or remote operation based in Ventura County and meet basic licensing and safety requirements. Business Solutions Specialists handle the administrative process and help match local job seekers or students with businesses based on their specific workforce needs, from retail and food service to construction, professional consulting, and technical trades.
Local microbusiness owners, independent contractors, and sole proprietors can learn more about funding availability, hiring support, and training timelines by contacting the Business Solutions team at America’s Job Center of California at 805-648-WORK, emailing WDBVC@venturacounty.gov, or visiting tinyurl.com/MicroStartup.
About the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County
The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County administers federal funds that support America’s Job Center of California locations and specialized employment programs throughout the region. In partnership with local business, education, and community leaders, the Board works to strengthen the local economy through workforce training, business growth strategies, and employment services.
