Serving Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura Counties (805) 890-8998 info@ccmera.org
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Tri-Counties, California

Creating Pathways to Prosperity

Join us in creating a resilient future where economic and workforce development, equity, and sustainability drive prosperity. CCMERA is a catalyst for economic empowerment and community revitalization, connecting entrepreneurs in underserved communities to the resources, networks, and education necessary to build legacy prosperity.

CCMERA Business and Leadership Awards Gala speaker at the podium
Executive Leadership Team

The people guiding our mission

The board and leadership team behind CCMERA's work across the Central Coast.

Portrait of Byron K. Ward
Byron K. Ward
Founder, President & CEO
Portrait of Darrell Gooden
Darrell Gooden
Secretary
Portrait of Erica Ayala
Erica Ayala
CFO and Treasurer
Portrait of Zach Parker
Zach Parker
Director
Portrait of Morgan Clayton
Morgan Clayton
Director
Our Initiatives

Strategic programs and partnerships building economic legacy

Signature Event

Economic Development Summit (EDS)

Brings together entrepreneurs, policymakers, and community leaders to foster economic empowerment through workshops, panels, and networking that create actionable strategies for inclusive growth.

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Active Program

Building Clean Green Community Bridges (BCGCB)

Promotes sustainability and environmental justice by supporting Black-owned businesses in clean energy and green infrastructure, connecting communities to green opportunities through radio, podcast, webinar, and live forum programming.

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In Partnership

1 Million Black Businesses (1MBB)

In partnership with Operation HOPE, CCMERA supports the creation and growth of 1 million Black-owned businesses, providing resources, mentorship, and access to capital. Referral code: CCMERA.

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Save the Date

Economic Empowerment Weekend (EEW) 2027

Our new umbrella name for the Summit and the Awards Gala together. Theme: Future Ready Economy, leveraging AI to build prosperity and legacy.

April 9
Economic Development Summit
April 10
Business and Leadership Awards Gala
Learn more
2025 In Review

Real reach, measured honestly

132
Gala attendees
9
Building Clean Green Community Bridges media activities
300+
Reached through Building Clean Green Community Bridges
Strategic Partners

Trusted by regional partners and sponsors

Economic Legacy Builders

Partner with CCMERA

Annual partnership levels across sponsorship, advertising, and giving. Every level includes logo placement and impact report inclusion.

Strategic Champion$15,000+
Premier Champion$10,000
Title Sponsorship$5,000
Platinum Sponsorship$3,500
Gold Sponsorship$2,000
Silver Sponsorship$1,000

Ready to build economic legacy with us?

Donate today