University of the Pacific Is a Champion for Small Businesses in San Joaquin

Jaslyn Gilbert

For decades, San Joaquin County has been drawing entrepreneurs and investors seeking competitive advantages such as prime access to Silicon Valley and San Francisco markets, high quality of life, robust transportation networks, skilled workforce and proximity to nationally ranked universities. In early 2026, small businesses gain another incentive to put down roots in the region when the University of the Pacific opens its new San Joaquin County Small Business Center, designed to connect small-business owners with university experts and top-tier students. 

40 Years of Supporting Small Businesses

“The challenge for small-business owners is setting aside time to do research and to get things done because small-business owners typically wear all the hats,” says Lewis Gale, dean of the Eberhardt School of Business at University of the Pacific. “Our Small Business Center teams students with businesses to help them accelerate their growth process. It’s a triple win – our students gain real-world experience, area businesses access high-level expertise, and Stockton and San Joaquin County strengthens its economy.”

With a 40-year history of supporting small businesses, the Eberhardt School of Business has been instrumental in shaping the California region’s economy. The new Small Business Center builds on that legacy, reinforcing Pacific’s role as a cornerstone of the county’s economic growth.

Randall Gee

Through the center, businesses have access to and assistance with market research, business plan development, social media strategy, logo design, legal consultation, hiring strategies, accounting and finance expertise. University of the Pacific students simultaneously build networks with the business community while applying the skills they’ve learned in class toward real business challenges.

“Our students are already doing this on campus. Now we’re making that expertise available to the broader business community,” Gale says. “Our goal is to create a one-stop shop where people can come in and ask for help with research projects, consulting, marketing surveys and social media. Small businesses need that kind of support, and our students do a fabulous job.”

“We are making a long-term mutual commitment to the business community,” Gale says. “I’m excited about what we can do.” 

For more information about University of the Pacific, visit pacific.edu.