Carlsbad Chamber to Launch Family-Friendly Business Certification Program

CARLSBAD, CA — About 20 Carlsbad businesses will take part in a pilot program aimed at recognizing and encouraging businesses that create welcoming environments for families with young children.

The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce plans to launch the Carlsbad Family-Friendly Certified Program in the first quarter of 2027 following a July presentation to the city’s Economic Development Subcommittee. The committee voted to move forward with the pilot.

The voluntary program will be free for participating businesses. Businesses will complete a self-assessment of their operations and physical spaces and can earn one of three certification levels: Pathway, Certified or Gold.

The pilot will include businesses from seven industry categories. Participants will provide feedback on the certification process before the program is potentially expanded throughout Carlsbad.

The program is intended to give businesses a way to show their commitment to serving parents, children and caregivers while encouraging family-friendly practices across different industries.

"We're excited to help bring this vision to life," Carlsbad Chamber President and CEO Bret Schanzenbach said in a statement. "Carlsbad has long been known as a community that values families, and this program gives local businesses a meaningful way to demonstrate that commitment while creating more welcoming experiences for residents and visitors alike."

The chamber and city leaders will review participant feedback and consider expanding the program. They also will explore whether the program could serve as a model for other California communities.

Businesses can learn more about the program at carlsbad.org/cffc/.