Empowering L.A.’s Small Businesses Through Access, Opportunity & Resilience

by Maria S. Salinas

Small businesses are the backbone of Los Angeles’ economy—driving innovation, creating jobs, and economic anchors in every neighborhood. At the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, we understand that when small businesses thrive, our entire region prospers. That’s why we are committed to more than just advocacy—we are taking action to open new pathways for opportunity and to strengthen the resilience of our small business community.

From access to corporate contracts to training to disaster recovery support, the Chamber is advancing a comprehensive strategy built around access, opportunity, and resilience.

Building Capacity for Contracting Success
Access alone is not enough; preparation is critical. That’s why our OneLA Regional Collaborative offers cohort-based, hands-on training to help small businesses become competitive, contract-ready suppliers. Led by procurement professionals and industry experts, OneLA is more than a program—it’s a regional partnership, a movement focused on building a more inclusive economic future.

Responding When it Matters Most
When disaster strikes, small businesses are often the most vulnerable. The recent wildfires, the recovery and rebuilding efforts exposed our regions’ vulnerability. In response, the Chamber launched the Small Business Disaster Relief Fund to help impacted small businesses with financial relief and technical support.

Get in the Game Initiative: Opening Doors to Supplier Diversity
Many small businesses—particularly those owned by women, people of color, immigrants, and veterans—face steep hurdles when trying to enter high-value supply chains. The Get in the Game resource hub addresses this head-on by connecting diverse suppliers directly with decision-makers from Fortune 500 companies, public agencies, and large contractors. This initiative is part of a larger commitment to advance inclusive procurement throughout Southern California.

The L.A. Area Chamber is proud to stand with our small business community—providing leadership, partnership, and solutions. Together, we’re building a more equitable, inclusive, and resilient economy.