Business Forward Ventura County, a new resource hub for the region, is launching on July 7.

The new hub replaces Ventura County Grows Business, which was developed by the Workforce Development Board. Business Forward Ventura County is designed to be a place where business leaders and owners can find resources, resource providers, business associations, news and events in the area.

The Economic Development Collaborative is one of the key partners involved in Business Forward Ventura County, along with others like the Workforce Development Board, the Ventura County Community Foundation, the County Executive Office and the County Board of Supervisors.

On the website, Business Forward has links to COVID-19 support, business consulting, ways to train employees and assistance for start-ups and with getting permits. There is also information about local and state business incentives and blurbs about local colleges and the education they provide.

“This site is intended as a connector, linking our region’s extraordinary depth and diversity of business resources,” said Bruce Stenslie, EDC’s president and CEO.

As part of the new platform, Business Forward Ventura County is creating a resource network designed for minority- and women-owned businesses. The website already has linked to several local organizations that support businesses, as well as places minority and female business owners can get assistance or guidance.

• Contact Amber Hair at ahair@pacbiztimes.com.