small sonoma businesses Archives

Mercedes Hernandez, founder of SoCo Market in Santa Rosa Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)

SoCo Market Founder Connects the Community While Boosting Small Businesses

April 2026

Mercedes Hernandez has owned retail businesses and founded local festivals across Sonoma County. Now, she's working toward a bigger dream.

EARTHSeed is a new permaculture farm that both grows food and fosters resilence in the land and its people. One of founder Pandora Thomas’ goals is to make the farm and its products accessible to those who have historically faced barriers to access, particularly communities of color. She hopes to offer a robust program of classes and farming internships. (Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat)

Over 50 Black-Owned Businesses in Sonoma County

February 2026

From winemakers to restaurant owners and wardrobe stylists, here are the Black entrepreneurs leaving their mark on Sonoma County.

Jevon Martin and Marjorie Pier were told funds for the small-business loan they applied for had run out. (Christopher Chung / The Press Democrat)

Holiday Season Offers Glimmer of Hope for Small Sonoma Businesses

November 2020

The struggle is real for Sonoma County's small businesses as they pivot to meet our pandemic moment. This season marks a chance to bank some vital cash flow and, in order to do so, they need our help more than ever.