Innovation, Creativity & Entrepreneurship: The Engines of L.A. Success

by Maria S. Salinas

The Los Angeles region’s growth is a story of vision, creativity and innovation at play. And since its inception in 1888, the Chamber has played an integral role in shaping L.A.’s future and fostering the entrepreneurial spirit.

As a leading global city and a major technology hub, L.A. remains a place where art, technology and business come together in unique ways to fuel the economy. Once known primarily for filmmaking, L.A. is now also known for its robust manufacturing sector, as a thriving technology hub and as one of the nation’s top areas for startups.

The Chamber has been playing an integral role in fostering entrepreneurship. With our Center for Small Business Success, our small business members look to us for a variety of business and professional development programs. From referrals, to networking functions, to business matchmaking, the Chamber provides support and opportunities to make connections, build relationships, and help entrepreneurs and small businesses grow throughout the year.

Through the Chamber’s Center for Innovation & Technology and its Bixel Exchange program, we seek to bridge the technology skills gap with our vision of a prosperous and inclusive tech sector. Our Startup Launch incubator supports more than 250 tech entrepreneurs annually, more than any other organization in L.A. And since our launch of the LA Tech Talent Pipeline partnership with L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti last year, more than 4,000 young people, mostly from local community colleges, have participated in an activity with one of the 60+ tech companies with which we partner. Of those, more than 200 have been placed in paid tech internships, including at some of L.A.’s top tech companies, such as Snap Inc, Cornerstone OnDemand and Boingo Wireless. Next month, we will present our T3: State of Tech Talent Today, highlighting the hidden tech talent here in the area, and release a report, in partnership with Deloitte, that speaks to expanding the talent pipeline in L.A.

With all this innovation and growth throughout L.A. comes a dynamic business landscape, and ever-changing opportunities and challenges. As the region continues to evolve, and as the technological revolution continues to impact every sector, the L.A. Area Chamber is well-positioned to continue our crucial role in helping advance L.A.’s economy, as well as helping you and your business thrive.

That’s the Business Perspective.

REGISTER NOW for T3: The State of Tech Talent Today.

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