New UC venture fund to pump $250M into spinoffs
There certainly is no shortage of money available for startup companies — total venture investments in 2014 were more than $57 billion, according to Dow Jones VentureSource, and there are signs 2015 could top that by billions. There hasn’t been this much cash flowing, particularly in the tech sector, since the late 1990s dot-com boom. Read More →
AppFolio, MindBody must become profitable
AppFolio and MindBody went through growing pains in 2015, spending more money than they earned. Now, 2016 needs to be the year of profitability. On one hand, AppFolio and MindBody successfully transitioned from promising young startups into growing young companies in 2015. As we head into 2016, though, both companies have yet to answer how Read More →
Ventura County firefighters do great job with Solimar Fire
Ventura County firefighters are a dedicated bunch. Once again, they made their point, proving over Christmas weekend that their ability to fight fires and protect private property are unmatched on the Central Coast. The so-called Solimar Fire broke out early in the morning of Dec. 26 and quickly jumped Highway 101, threatening beachside enclaves. The Read More →
Workplace stress: use it or lose it
Workplace stress is a very individual phenomenon. It can kill through hypertension and mismanaged emotions. On the other hand, it can be a very valuable tool for leaders at every level to use to motivate their folks. Let’s take a look at the phenomenon of stress. Unmanaged stress is likely the single most important and Read More →
Community West Bank expanding into San Luis Obispo
Goleta-based Community West Bank plans to open a new branch in San Luis Obispo. Community West, which is owned by Community West Bancshares, looks to debut a full-service branch at 4464 Broad Street — its first in San Luis Obispo County. Its sixth tri-county location, pending approval from federal regulators, would open in the third Read More →
San Luis Obispo’s Digital West Networks acquires AdSmart
San Luis Obispo-based Digital West Networks has acquired AdSmart, a mobile advertising software platform. Digital West provides commercial-grade Internet connectivity, colocation and cloud services to businesses. “This strategic acquisition provides a much needed connection between infrastructure delivery and the direct business solutions we can provide on our network,” said Tim Williams, CEO of Digital West. Read More →
Calavo Growers’ fourth quarter earnings fall short
Santa Paula-based Calavo Growers missed analyst projections on its fourth-quarter earnings. Calavo Growers, which is known for its avocado production, reported on Dec. 29 a profit of 28 cents per share, missing Wall Street’s projection of 46 cents per share. Calavo Growers stock ended the day at $49.51 per share, down $1.14. The company posted Read More →
