The El Cajon Small Business Incubator (ESBI) journey began in 2015 as a vision sparked by Dr. Norri Barka, a passionate advocate for entrepreneurship and community development. At the time, Dr. Barka observed the potential within El Cajon—a city brimming with creative and entrepreneurial talent—yet lacking the infrastructure and support system necessary to nurture and sustain small businesses.

With a background in business leadership and a deep commitment to El Cajon City, Dr. Barka envisioned an incubator that would serve as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation. He believed that by providing aspiring entrepreneurs with the right resources, guidance, and community connections, they could overcome the challenges of starting and growing a business.

In 2015, Dr. Barka, along with a group of like-minded local leaders, educators, and business owners, began working on bringing this vision to life. They held community forums, conducted research, and sought input from local entrepreneurs to understand their needs and aspirations. These efforts culminated in the formation of a plan to create a small business incubator uniquely tailored to the El Cajon community.

Dr. Barka’s leadership was instrumental in securing partnerships with local government, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders. His unwavering dedication and strategic planning laid the foundation for what would become a cornerstone of El Cajon’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

In 2024, after eight years of meticulous planning and development, the El Cajon Small Business Incubator officially opened its doors under Dr. Barka’s leadership. The incubator quickly became a hub for innovation, offering a comprehensive range of services, including mentorship, co-working spaces, workshops, and access to funding opportunities. The first cohort of startups that joined ESBI benefited greatly from the nurturing environment that Dr. Barka and his team had created.

Since its inception, ESBI has continued to grow and evolve, always guided by Dr. Barka’s original vision of empowering local entrepreneurs and driving economic development in El Cajon. Under his leadership, the incubator has supported countless businesses across various industries, helping them navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve lasting success.

Our story is a testament to the power of vision, community, and perseverance. What started as an idea in 2015 has grown into a thriving incubator that plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of El Cajon’s economy. Today, ESBI stands as a beacon of support and opportunity for entrepreneurs, driven by Dr. Barka’s enduring commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the East County region.

As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to fulfilling Dr. Barka’s mission: to empower every entrepreneur who walks through our doors and to continue building a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous community here in El Cajon.