IE APEX Accelerator Secures Funding to Continue Serving Inland Empire Businesses
08/18/2025
The Inland Empire APEX Accelerator (IE APEX), hosted by Riverside Community College District (RCCD) for the past 29 years, has officially received its funding award, from the Department of Defense, Office of Small Business Programs, ensuring the continuation of vital services that help local businesses compete for and win government contracts.
As part of a nationwide network of APEX Accelerators, IE APEX provides no-cost, expert counseling and training to small businesses seeking to enter or expand in the federal, state, and local government marketplace. Since 2020, IE APEX has helped clients secure over 27,000 government contracts, totaling more than $4.4 billion.
“This funding allows us to continue doing what we do best—helping Inland Empire businesses succeed,” said Valorie Piper, Director of the IE APEX Accelerator. “For nearly three decades, we’ve been committed to guiding local companies through the often complex world of government contracting, and this award reaffirms the value of that work.”
The IE APEX team provides one-on-one counseling, workshops, bid preparation assistance, and strategic guidance, with a special focus on supporting veteran-, women-, and minority-owned businesses, as well as innovative firms pursuing SBIR/STTR opportunities.
With the new funding secured, IE APEX is poised to expand outreach, deepen partnerships,
and continue fostering economic growth throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
About the Inland Empire APEX Accelerator
The IE APEX Accelerator, hosted by Riverside Community College District, is part of the national APEX Accelerator network funded through the U.S. Department of Defense Office of Small Business Programs. IE APEX serves as a resource for businesses seeking to navigate the government contracting process, from registrations and certifications to marketing and proposal development.
Published by External Relations & Strategic Communications