Chamber Focused on the Future of Los Angeles
The Chamber’s 2025 Annual Board Retreat, themed Playmakers: Big Plays, Bold Moves & a Bright Future, captured Los Angeles’ moment on the global stage. With a spotlight on the global reach of the 2026 World Cup, the retreat set the stage for the opportunities ahead, the city’s growing influence in the sports economy, and the powerful intersection of business, sports, and community. First Vice Chair Andy Park, Office Managing Partner, EY, helped shape a compelling agenda and lineup of thought-provoking speakers who challenged the Board to think big about the future of Los Angeles. Board Chair George L. Pla reflected on a year that had tested Los Angeles in many ways. He noted the Chamber’s bold leadership in policy, leading with purpose and continuing to foster a resilient Los Angeles.
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Chamber Board Retreat Highlights: Inspiring Conversations
The 2025 Board Retreat featured an inspiring lineup of panels and keynotes, providing actionable insights for Los Angeles’ future. Kathryn Schloessman (LA Sports & Entertainment Commission) shared plans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and its impact on jobs, tourism, and communities. A.G. Spanos (Los Angeles Chargers), with Larry Freedman (LAFC) and Julie Uhrman (Angel City FC), discussed the city’s global sports leadership and economic benefits of major events. Crystal Shen (New York Stock Exchange) discussed the importance of the capital markets and the Los Angeles economy. The Chamber Board heard from two companies at the frontlines of innovation: Travis Kalanick (CloudKitchens) highlighted new concepts in food delivery, while April Mims (Metropolis) discussed the future of urban mobility and smart infrastructure in parking and transportation. It was a full agenda with insight from entrepreneurs shaping the economy and big moments for L.A.
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Councilmember Monica Rodriguez Shares Insights at Pancakes & Politics
This week’s Accenture Pancakes & Politics session featured a fireside chat with Los Angeles City Councilmember Monica Rodriguez, District 7. Joined by the Chamber’s Chief Policy Officer, Carlos Singer, Councilmember Rodriguez shared her insights on critical issues, including housing and homelessness, Charter reforms, fiscal responsibility, and federal engagement. She continues to be a trusted champion for balanced leadership and responsible governance.
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November 4 Special Election
This November, California will have a special election to decide on one item on the ballot, Proposition 50. This measure proposes temporary changes to congressional district maps, with new maps in effect through 2030. The Chamber supports Proposition 50 as it helps ensure that California businesses are not disadvantaged in federal policy debates, safeguarding critical investments in housing, transportation, and disaster relief. Read our full statement here. Find your nearest polling place here.
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Federal Shutdown Threatens Head Start, SNAP, and Local Economies
If the federal government shutdown continues beyond November 1, essential programs and local economies could face severe strain. The National Head Start Association warns that Head Start programs, which serve 750,000 children nationwide, may face closures or staffing shortages, disrupting childcare and workforce stability. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has indicated it will suspend November SNAP benefits, leaving 5.5 million Californians without $1.1 billion in critical food assistance. This week, Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration, citing the unlawful withholding of these benefits.
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Insights into Navigating Uncertain Waters: Trade, Tariffs, and Business
This week, the Chamber hosted a discussion titled Insights into Navigating Uncertain Waters: Trade, Tariffs, and California Business, featuring Sharmistha Das, Partner at Crowell & Moring LLP and former Deputy Chief of Staff and Deputy General Counsel at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Vince Iacopella, Executive Vice President of Growth and Strategy at ALBA Wheels Up International Inc. Sharmistha and Vince shared valuable perspectives on tariff policy, the upcoming Supreme Court ruling, and the broader impact of tariffs, sanctions, and regulations on economic certainty and business growth. The Chamber thanks Global Initiatives Council Chair Nicole Simonian and Co-Chairs Brian Peck and Kevin Klowden for their leadership in organizing this important discussion.
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Last Chance: Register for the Get in the Game Procurement Fair – November 6
Don’t miss the Get in the Game Procurement Fair on November 6! Connect with buyers, network with suppliers, and discover valuable contracting opportunities. Hear from industry experts and learn strategies to grow and scale your business. Register here.
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Hensel Phelps Small Business Training: Managing a Profitable Business - A Seven Session Webinar Series
Join Hensel Phelps Small Business Training Series to strengthen your business for contracting success. From October 1 to November 12, sessions cover the 5Bs of Project Business: business development, estimating, construction accounting, financial capacity, and human capital. Gain expert guidance, build capacity, and prepare for real procurement opportunities. To register, visit here.
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Crafting Winning Proposals Webinar with Los Angeles County Health Services
Join Los Angeles County Health Services on Thursday, November 20, at 1:00 p.m. for a free webinar, Crafting Winning Proposals. Learn strategies to strengthen your proposal writing skills and boost your chances for LA County contracting opportunities. Spread the word and reserve your spot today by emailing here.
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LA Times Inspirational Women Forum & Leadership Awards
On November 13, the Los Angeles Times will host its 5th Annual Inspirational Women Forum & Leadership Awards at the Fairmont Miramar in Santa Monica. This exclusive event features engaging panels, networking opportunities, and an awards ceremony celebrating outstanding women leaders in the corporate and nonprofit sectors. Don’t miss this dynamic platform for storytelling, innovation, and community impact. Learn more here.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Energy, Water, & Environmental Sustainability Policy Council
Wednesday, November 5, 10:00 a.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Please join the next Energy, Water, and Environmental Sustainability (EWE) Policy Council for a special session on legislative updates impacting the business community.
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Innovation and Technology Policy Council
Tuesday, November 11, 2:00 p.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join the Innovation & Technology Policy Council for the last meeting of the year on technology and legislative updates impacting the business community.
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Land Use, Construction & Housing Policy Council
Wednesday, November 12, 9:00 a.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join the Land Use, Construction & Housing Council for the last meeting of the year to hear legislative updates that could affect the region in 2026.
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