Chamber Celebrates 138 Years with Inspiring Inaugural Dinner
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce marked its 138th year with a memorable Inaugural Dinner at the iconic Ray Dolby Ballroom. President & CEO Maria S. Salinas reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to advancing opportunity and strengthening the regional economy. The evening featured the formal “Passing of the Gavel,” as 2025 Board Chair George L. Pla, President & CEO of Cordoba Corporation, passed leadership to 2026 Board Chair Andy Park, Los Angeles Office Managing Partner at EY, who emphasized deepening civic engagement and moving Los Angeles forward. View photos here.
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Civic Medal of Honor Presented to George Kieffer at Inaugural Dinner
At the Chamber’s 2026 Inaugural Dinner, George Kieffer was given the Civic Medal of Honor for his lifelong dedication to public service and civic leadership. A distinguished legal and civic leader, George has shaped policy, strengthened institutions, and championed initiatives that benefit the Los Angeles region. His work embodies the Chamber’s belief that principled, engaged leaders are essential to building a stronger, more resilient community, today and for generations to come.
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Chamber Advocates for Regional Infrastructure Priorities in Sacramento
This week, the Chamber participated in Mobility 21’s annual Sacramento delegation to advocate for regional transportation and infrastructure priorities. As a founding member of the coalition, the Chamber met with legislators following a briefing from CalSTA Secretary Toks Omishakin on statewide initiatives. Delegates emphasized the importance of protecting transportation funding, streamlining project delivery, removing barriers to safe and sustainable mobility, and strengthening the region’s freight and goods‑movement corridors.
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ACCESS D.C.: Early Bird Registration Ends February 13
The Chamber invites members to join ACCESS D.C. – March 15–17, 2026, our premier annual advocacy event in Washington, D.C. Delegates will meet with members of Congress, federal agencies, and administration officials to advance policies that support job creation, economic growth, and opportunity in the L.A. region. This is a unique chance to amplify Los Angeles’ voice on national priorities, including infrastructure, workforce development, small business support, disaster recovery, and global competitiveness. Early bird registration ends this Friday, Feb. 13. Register here today.
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Chamber Monitors Vincent Thomas Bridge Closure
On Tuesday, the City of Los Angeles Trade, Travel, and Tourism Committee voted on a motion to assess the resources and costs associated with the upcoming Vincent Thomas Bridge closure, scheduled for late 2026, for seismic retrofitting and major repairs. The Chamber is closely monitoring the planned closure and will keep members informed about its potential impacts on the region.
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County Board of Supervisors Places Health Care Sales Tax on June Ballot
This week, the County Board of Supervisors voted to place a measure on the June ballot asking voters whether to approve a half-cent sales tax to fund local health programs. In response to federal funding reductions under H.R. 1, the measure is designed to raise approximately $1 billion annually for five years to support County health departments and other critical programs. The Chamber is actively monitoring the proposal and encourages members to share their perspectives on its potential impact.
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House Rejects Bid to Block Tariff Votes
The U.S. House rejected Speaker Mike Johnson’s attempt to block votes on resolutions challenging federal tariffs, clearing the way for decisions that could reshape trade policy. These upcoming votes may impact Los Angeles businesses that rely on global supply chains and imported materials, influencing costs, pricing, competitiveness, and long-term planning.
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Sponsor Today - World Trade Week Centennial Celebration
Celebrate 100 years of global trade leadership with the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce! World Trade Week 2026 brings together business, civic, and international leaders to honor a century of trade and chart the path forward for Los Angeles as a global economic hub. Sponsorship opportunities provide high-visibility engagement, recognition, and the chance to connect with regional, national, and international stakeholders. Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your organization at this historic milestone. Become a sponsor today.
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From LA Streets to the Super Bowl: Villa’s Tacos Represents Local Small Business
Villas Tacos put Los Angeles small businesses in the national spotlight, a proud moment showcasing the creativity, resilience, and grit of our city’s entrepreneurs. The Super Bowl Halftime Show highlighted what Angelenos already know: immigrant-founded, community-rooted businesses don’t just serve great food, they build culture, create jobs, and strengthen neighborhoods. As Los Angeles heads into a landmark year, let’s continue supporting the local businesses that make our city vibrant every day.
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Partnering with Los Angeles County: Open Bids & Vendor Registration
Los Angeles County provides a current listing of open bids for suppliers. To do business with the County, vendors must first complete a quick online registration, a process that takes just a few minutes and helps the County identify the products and services your business offers. Registration can be completed electronically with internet access—available at home, office, or public libraries—and includes clear, step-by-step instructions. For more information and to register, visit here.
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Los Angeles: Are You Ready for Super Bowl LXI?
Los Angeles businesses are invited to participate in the NFL’s Super Bowl LXI Source Program, which provides subcontracting and capacity-building opportunities in advance of the 2027 game. Eligible firms must be headquartered in L.A. County, in good standing, and the direct source of their goods or services. Both diverse and established businesses are encouraged to apply, and all businesses may participate. Apply here through the NFL’s portal by February 28.
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Celebrating Black History Month
Everett K. Sands is the Chief Executive Officer of Lendistry, bringing over 20 years of experience in lending across national and community banking. In 2024, he was recognized as an Entrepreneur Of The Year® Greater Los Angeles award winner and national finalist. Everett also serves as a member of the Chamber Board.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Global Initiatives Policy Council
Wednesday, February 18, 9:00 a.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join the upcoming Global Initiative Council meeting for a special USMCA session with Ambassador Carlos González Gutiérrez, Consul General of Mexico in Los Angeles.
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Joint: Innovation & Technology / Health Care Policy Councils
Wednesday, February 18, 1:00 p.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join the joint meeting of the Innovation & Technology and Health Care Policy Councils for a special session on legislative updates affecting the business community.
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Pancakes & Politics
Thursday, February 19, 8:30 a.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join the L.A. Area Chamber for our next Pancakes & Politics Speaker Series, where we will discuss FIFA World Cup 2026 Activations with L.A. Tourism CEO Adam Burke and City of Los Angeles Deputy Mayor Dilpreet Sidhu.
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