EDC CLIENT STORIES

Inspired by COVID-19’s isolation, Clinton Panton embarked on a mission to create a source of connection and social cohesion in the face of widespread separation. Seeking guidance to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship, Clinton turned to EDC SBDC, where he discovered the CA Dream Fund Grant Program. The program, administered by the state and run locally by the Los Angeles SBDC Network, supported California entrepreneurs in launching their ventures by offering a start-up training program with online workshops and personalized advising. Participants who completed the program requirements were eligible for a one-time grant.

Thanks to the CA Dream Fund and Clinton’s dedication, Gameland was created in 2021. Gameland is a mobile game business that provides comprehensive gaming equipment for events, creating a fun in-person experience that encourages connections. Throughout the process, Clinton received guidance from various EDC SBDC Business Advisors, including Sebastian De Vivo for start-up assistance, Erica Bristol for legal advice and Anthony Elliot for financial consulting. Clinton expressed his appreciation for his EDC SBDC Business Advisor Luisa Arzate, stating that she saw “me from not having a website and just the idea in my head to getting together my prices and my marketing materials to prepare for what was to come next.”

Reflecting on his support from EDC, Clinton emphasized, “The EDC cares about my successes, which is incredible, and they follow up. They are paying attention to their clientele and the people around us and their success. The caring part is the biggest to me.” Looking towards the future, Clinton envisions expanding Gameland into a statewide business and ultimately transforming it into a nationwide franchise with the potential for global reach. His journey exemplifies the power of entrepreneurship, community support and the transformative impact of programs like the CA Dream Fund in turning dreams into successful ventures.