Chamber Delegation Visits Washington D.C.
The L.A. Area Chamber led a dynamic delegation to Washington, D.C., bringing a diverse group of business, community and civic leaders to advocate for the Los Angeles region and California’s economy. Priorities included support for disaster recovery and rebuilding efforts, and federal support to help prepare the region for global sporting events. Discussions focused on infrastructure investments, workforce development, and federal investment for small businesses. With nearly 50 meetings on Capitol Hill, the delegation advocated for our region, which is a vital contributor to the nation’s economy.
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California's U.S. Senators Speak with ACCESS D.C. Delegation
ACCESS D.C. welcomed U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff for engaging keynotes about California’s most pressing economic challenges. L.A. Area Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas and San Francisco Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Rodney Fong led fireside chats with both senators to discuss securing federal support for infrastructure, expanding workforce development, addressing the housing crisis, and advancing policies that empower small businesses. The conversations also underscored the importance of the business communities “voice” in advocating for national policies to drive economic growth, job creation, and California’s global competitiveness.
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Chamber Meets with U.S. Departments of Transportation and Commerce
During an action packed ACCESS D.C., the delegation met with officials from the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Transportation, where agency leaders shared the Administration’s priorities. ACCESS D.C. delegation teams highlighted the critical need for federal support in transportation infrastructure and wildfire disaster recovery as Los Angeles prepares for major global sporting events. Both departments expressed interest in continued engagement with the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce.
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Chamber Attends White House Meeting with SBA Administrator and Interim FEMA Director
In a meeting at the White House, the Chamber met with U.S. SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler, who highlighted ongoing disaster recovery efforts in the Los Angeles region and shared that the disaster loan application deadline has been extended to March 31. Cameron Hamilton, Senior Official Performing the Duties of FEMA Administrator, reaffirmed FEMA’s commitment to supporting Los Angeles in the aftermath of the recent wildfires. Both officials engaged with the delegation to gather feedback on the region’s recovery needs and priorities.
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Chamber Responds to U.S. Department of Education Staff Cuts
The U.S. Department of Education announced severe staffing cuts this week. Critical programs which support students, educators, and workforce development training in California will be impacted. These cuts will potentially have a devastating impact on special education, and training initiatives, harming the most vulnerable students and families but also California's future competitiveness. The Chamber remains committed to working with local, state, and federal partners to advocate for continued investment in education and in developing the workforce of the future. Read our statement here.
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Tariffs and their Regional Impact on Businesses
This week several tariffs were announced against goods imported from Canada, China, and Mexico. Tariffs are a tax on goods which U.S. based businesses must pay, and ultimately the cost increase will be passed onto consumers. The L.A. Area Chamber calls for alternative solutions to the tariffs due to the economic impacts. These tariffs threaten key trade relationships, raise costs for manufacturing and retail, slow GDP growth, and could delay critical infrastructure projects in L.A, as it rebuilds and prepares for the 2028 Olympic games. The Chamber remains committed to policies that support economic growth and long-term stability. Read the full statement here.
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EMI OneLA Procurement Accelerator: Apply Now for Cohort III
Applications are open for the EMI OneLA Procurement Accelerator - Certification & Contract Training program. Cohort III provides attendees contracting opportunities, resources, and training to help small businesses prepare for procurement opportunities. Register now for an info session to learn about the bootcamp and training courses. Learn more and apply here.
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L.A. County Launches Small Business Grants
L.A. County's Department of Economic Opportunity has launched the Small Business Mobility Fund, offering grants from $500 to $5,000 to help eligible vendors purchase carts, equipment, and other essentials. Applications are open now—apply before the deadline on May 2. Learn more and apply today!
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Federal Assistance for L.A. Fires: Deadline Extended to March 31
The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance and Small Business Administration (SBA) Assistance has been extended to Monday, March 31. Homeowners and renters in Los Angeles County affected by the recent wildfires may be eligible. These programs provide financial support and resources to aid in recovery. Don’t miss out—apply before the new deadline.
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Join Dr. Thornberg for an Economic Overview
Join us on Tuesday, April 1 at 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. for a special session with economist and public speaker, Dr. Chris Thornberg, as he presents key economic data on the state of West Los Angeles communities. Register here.
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Register for the LABC Mayoral Housing, Transportation & Jobs Summit
Join the 23rd Annual LABC Mayoral Housing, Transportation & Jobs Summit on April 25, at the UCLA Meyer & Renee Luskin Conference Center. The event will bring together top policymakers, business leaders, and industry experts to discuss solutions for improving the livability and economic competitiveness of Los Angeles and California. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage in high-level discussions on housing, transportation, and jobs. Secure your spot today.
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Celebrating Women's History Month: Dana Debel, Delta Air Lines
Dana Debel, Managing Director, State and Local Government Affairs of Delta Air Lines. In her 16 years with Delta, Dana’s strong influence and communication skills have helped her lead numerous cross-functional initiatives to enhance the presence of Delta within its hub communities and improve the economic and operating climate for Delta’s customers and employees. Dana serves on the Board of Directors of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and is actively engaged at the Chamber.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Trade and Tariffs: Impact on the Los Angeles Economy
Monday, March 17, 9:00 a.m.
Join the L.A. Area Chamber's Global Initiatives Council for an insightful discussion on navigating tariffs, trade regulations, and strategies to mitigate their impact on the supply chain and business costs.
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World Trade Week
Thursday, May 1, 8:00 a.m.
Join us for the 99th World Trade Week: A New Horizon - Reimagining Trade with Innovation. World Trade Week has been dedicated to educating the public about the vital role and benefits of global trade in local, state, and national economies.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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