OBDC Small Business Finance Partner Profile: Oakland Commerce Corporation (OCC)

Oakland Commerce Corporation (OCC) was established in 1989 to provide existing businesses in Oakland with specialized consulting to address their concerns – including crime & safety and relocation needs. Throughout its existence, OCC has assisted businesses in Oakland by providing services and information related to business incentive programs available in the City of Oakland.

OCC has added a new staff member to its ranks Lowell Rice, Economic Development Specialist. OCC’s newest staff member hit the Oakland Industrial beat in April.  Before Joining OCC, he was a leader in Chicago’s industrial retention and development community.  He managed three Industrial Corridors with approximately 700 businesses, and 20,000 employees.  He also led a community/business strategic planning process which resulted in two Planned Manufacturing Districts. Says Lowell, “I am excited to be in Oakland.  I look forward to using my experience and skills to further strengthen the links between businesses and the communities where they are located.”

Roberto Costa, Business Development Officer at OBDC Small Business Finance welcomes Lowell  by saying “Working with partners like OCC, we hope to continue to build sustainable businesses that create jobs and contribute to build strong communities in which they operate”.  For more information about OCC, please visit www.oaklandcommercecorp.com