About Us

Caravan SBDC, hosted by Caravanserai, is part of the larger Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (OCIESBDC) network. We provide no-cost business technical assistance to entrepreneurs and small business owners across the Inland Empire, with a focus on Spanish-speaking communities.

Position Summary

We are seeking a bilingual (English/Spanish) Small Business Consultant with firsthand business experience and strong knowledge of regulatory and compliance requirements in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. This part-time consultant will support individuals looking to start or formalize their small business and help them build a solid foundation—from feasibility to operations.

The ideal candidate will also have the ability to assist clients in developing their digital presence, including website basics, online marketing strategies, and leveraging social platforms for business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one technical assistance to pre-venture and early-stage businesses.

• Guide clients through areas including but not limited to:

  • Feasibility and concept development

  • Licensing, permits, and regulatory compliance

  • Business registration and entity formation

  • Basic budgeting and startup costs

  • Brand identity and launch marketing

  • First sales and customer generation

  • Basic operational setup (e.g., recordkeeping, SOPs, HR basics)

• Maintain detailed client notes and document outcomes in a CRM system.

• Collaborate with internal team members and external partners to support client success.

• Conduct outreach and generate your own leads through partnerships with cities, chambers of commerce, community organizations, and local events.

• Attend community events and, when needed, give presentations or trainings on relevant topics.

• Meet reporting and documentation requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Bilingual (Spanish/English) — fluent in both written and verbal communication

• Current or past small business ownership experience — required

• Strong knowledge of small business challenges, especially in areas like compliance, retail, food service, and startup logistics

• Familiarity with Riverside and San Bernardino county regulations and permitting processes

• Experience assisting businesses with developing a digital presence (e.g., websites, basic SEO, Google Business, social media marketing)

• Ability to work independently and manage a client caseload

• Proficient in computer applications such as Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Zoom, and CRMs

• Strong communication, organization, and follow-through

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a business-related field or equivalent experience in business consulting, financial analysis, or program development

• Previous experience working with economic development programs or small business support organizations

• Experience delivering trainings or workshops to diverse audiences

To Apply:

Please send your resume, a short statement of interest, and any relevant business or consulting experience to bradley@caravanseraiproject.org.