In an effort to help small businesses succeed, Wells Fargo launched the Small Business Neighborhood Renovation Program in San Jose. The company provided targeted funds to help “freshen up” some low-to-moderate income small businesses, so they have a greater opportunity to get a second look and attract new customers. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Silicon Valley conducted outreach to small businesses. More than forty small businesses in San Jose applied for renovations and three businesses were selected.

The three businesses (La Sonorense Bakery, Angel Bridal and La Bonita Flowers) received inside and outside façade improvements to their businesses. The planning, budgeting and renovations were completed by three teams of students from San Jose Conservation Corps. Once the renovations were completed, a panel of judges selected the business that had the most dramatic improvement.

Bob Hennessy, executive director and founder of San Jose Conservation Corps and Charter School, Dennis King, executive director of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Silicon Valley, and Jeff Rademann, president of Wells Fargo’s Santa Clara Valley visited the three businesses and selected the winner of the Small Business Neighborhood Renovation Program in San Jose; the winner is: La Sonorense Bakery.Since the improvements took place, the businesses reported higher sales and customers made positive comments on the new look of the business.

“Wells Fargo is committed to help small businesses succeed,” said Jeff Rademann, president of Wells Fargo’s Santa Clara Valley market. “It is exciting to see how the dramatic changes for the businesses bring in a renewed enthusiasm. I am glad we are able to help small businesses position themselves for greater success.”

“Our students are thrilled to be participating in Wells Fargo’s business improvement program where they are gaining on-the-job construction experience”,” said Bob Hennessy, executive director and founder of San Jose Conservation Corps and Charter School. “By working with local business owners, the youth in our program develop expertise and confidence to continue their education and pursue careers.”

“We extended the invitation to more than forty local small business owners,” said Dennis King, executive director of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Silicon Valley. “It is a win-win situation for everyone, even the businesses who were not selected will be offered training on how to do better business planning and advice on how to grow their businesses.”