San Bernardino County’s economic landscape presents a dynamic mix of growth, challenges, and opportunities. Understanding these elements is crucial for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and policymakers aiming to navigate and thrive in this environment.
Economic Growth and Industry Performance
Recent data indicates that San Bernardino County has experienced notable economic growth in several key sectors. The healthcare and educational services industries have each seen a 6% increase in employment between 2022 and 2023. Over the past decade, the logistics sector has led employment growth with an 82% increase, followed by healthcare at 38% and educational services at 27%. These trends underscore the county’s evolving economic base and the expanding opportunities within these industries.
Entrepreneurship and Business Development
Entrepreneurship remains a vital component of San Bernardino’s economic vitality. The Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship (IECE) at California State University, San Bernardino, has significantly contributed to this landscape. Over the past two decades, the IECE has generated an economic impact exceeding $846 million in the region. In 2024 alone, the center reported a net positive contribution of over $146 million, encompassing loans, contracts, and exports. These figures highlight the center’s role in fostering business growth and innovation.
Challenges and Areas for Improvement
Despite these positive developments, certain challenges persist. The Riverside-San Bernardino metro area, while ranking 53rd out of 200 in the Milken Institute’s 2025 “Best Performing Cities” index, has seen a decline from its 22nd position in 2022. Specific areas such as 12-month job growth and high-tech concentration have experienced downturns, indicating the need for targeted strategies to bolster these aspects of the economy.
Opportunities for Local Businesses and Entrepreneurs
To address these challenges and leverage growth opportunities, local businesses and entrepreneurs can engage with various resources and initiatives. The City of San Bernardino’s Economic Development Department offers support through site selection tools, business grants, and connections to real estate professionals and regional partners. Additionally, the department provides workshops and training sessions covering topics like AI tools for entrepreneurs, cash flow mastery, and business plan development. These resources are designed to equip businesses with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in a competitive market.
Conclusion
San Bernardino’s economic landscape is characterized by both promising growth and areas requiring attention. By capitalizing on expanding industries, addressing existing challenges, and utilizing available resources, local businesses and entrepreneurs can contribute to and benefit from the county’s economic development. Staying informed and proactive will be key to navigating the evolving economic environment in San Bernardino.