"Empowering Dreams: Unlocking Opportunities through our Web Grant

GRANT OPPOURTUNITY

SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESS

WEB GRANT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 31, 2026

Fresno Metro Black Chamber Celebrates Two Members Named 2026 Web Grant Recipients

Valley Girl Travel Fresno and Divine Basix Accounting Services receive new websites and a year of ongoing digital support

FRESNO, Calif. - The Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce (FMBCC) is proud to recognize two Chamber members selected as 2026 Web Grant recipients: Carla Manning of Valley Girl Travel Fresno and Alexander Franklin of Divine Basix Accounting Services.

The Web Grant initiative, supported through a collaboration involving Bridge Forward Technology, Tri Counties Bank and the Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce, helps small businesses strengthen their digital presence and connect with more customers online. “As the marketplace continues to expand online, a strong website is no longer optional for a growing business. It serves as a digital storefront, a credibility tool and, in many cases, the first opportunity to connect with a new customer. Through this program, we are helping the 2026 winners strengthen their online presence, reach new audiences and position their businesses for sustainable growth in an increasingly digital economy.” — Anthony Bailey, Founder, Bridge Forward Technology.

Through the grant, each recipient received a professionally developed brochure-style website designed to introduce customers to the company, its services and its brand. The recipients will also receive monthly website assistance and updates for one year, allowing their online presence to grow alongside their businesses.

“As we celebrate National Black Business Month, we are especially proud to recognize Carla Manning and Alexander Franklin for taking this important step in the growth of their businesses,” said Tyré Ellison, Director of Membership and Community Engagement for the Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce. “A strong digital presence can create new opportunities, increase visibility and help small businesses remain competitive. We are grateful to Bridge Forward Technology and Tri Counties Bank for investing in our local entrepreneurs and helping Chamber members build a stronger foundation for continued growth.”

Valley Girl Travel Fresno helps clients plan memorable travel experiences with personalized guidance and support. Divine Basix Accounting Services provides accounting and financial services designed to help individuals and businesses better manage their financial responsibilities.

FMBCC congratulates Manning and Franklin and encourages the community to support both businesses as they launch their new websites and enter the next stage of their growth.

Media Contact

Shatera Sangster
Marketing Director
Fresno Metro Black Chamber
(559) 441-7929

shatera@fmbcc.com

Meet the 2026 Web Grant Recipients:

WEB GRANT 2026 SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

ABOUT THE FRESNO METRO BLACK CHAMBER COMMERCE: The Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce works to advance the economic vitality of businesses and communities throughout the Central Valley. Through advocacy, education, relationship-building and access to business resources, FMBCC supports entrepreneurs and helps create opportunities for sustainable business growth. Visit FMBCC.com to learn more.

ABOUT KERN INCLUSIVE ENTREPRENEURS HUB: The Kern Inclusive Entrepreneurs Hub is focused on advancing entrepreneurship and economic opportunity across Kern County by supporting diverse business owners through education, mentorship, and strategic partnerships. KIEH is program of 3C Capital Funding. 3C is dedicated to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs by providing access to capital resources, financial guidance, and strategic support that helps businesses grow and succeed in competitive markets. You can learn more about their programs by visiting 3CCF.ORG

ABOUT TRI COUNTIES BANK

Established in 1975, Tri Counties Bank is a wholly-owned subsidiary of TriCo Bancshares (NASDAQ: TCBK), headquartered in Chico, California with corporate offices in Roseville, South San Francisco, and Bakersfield, with assets of nearly $10 billion and 50 years of financial stability. Tri Counties Bank is dedicated to providing exceptional service for individuals and businesses throughout California with more than 75 locations, advanced mobile and online banking, and access to approximately 40,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. As California’s Local Bank, Tri Counties Bank prioritizes serving clients with local bankers and local decision-making, backed by corporate philanthropy, community engagement, employee volunteerism and investments. Recognized by various publications as among the Top Workplaces and Best Banks, Tri Counties Bank recruits and retains diverse and talented team members. Visit TriCountiesBank.com to learn more. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #458732.

ABOUT BAILEY AVE:

Bailey Ave Inc. is a Central Valley based technology services firm specializing in website development, digital communications, and technology solutions for small businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations. The company focuses on helping organizations establish a professional online presence through modern website design, reliable hosting, and ongoing technical support. Through its partnership with Bridge Forward Technology’s Web Grant Program, Bailey Ave Inc. provides the technical development and implementation of websites awarded to grant recipients, ensuring that participating businesses launch with a professional, functional, and scalable digital platform. Visit BAILEYAVE.COM for more details.

WEb Grant

How The Program Works

Attention small to medium-sized businesses and non-profits in the San Francisco area! Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to revolutionize your online presence with the Website Grant SB from Bailey Ave. This incredible grant provides a generous building credit towards the creation of a stunning brochure-style website built by our expert team.

Web Grant also includes the first 12 months of website maintenance and management at no charge to the business.

Our goal is to bridge the technology gap and help you connect with your audience without breaking the bank. Take advantage of this amazing offer and take your business to new heights!

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