Chamber Leads Delegation to Washington, D.C.
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce is leading its annual advocacy trip to Washington, D.C., to champion policies that strengthen industries and drive job creation. This year, the Chamber is prioritizing federal support for rebuilding Los Angeles following the wildfires, preparations for global sporting events, and stimulating economic growth and the workforce of the future. Delegates will meet with congressional leaders, federal agencies, and administration officials to foster collaboration for our regional economy. Stay tuned for updates.
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Botswana President Boko Joins Roundtable Marking Satellite Launch
The L.A. Area Chamber, in collaboration with the Botswana Embassy in the U.S., Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation, World Trade Center Los Angeles, the City of Los Angeles, and Global LA, hosted a roundtable discussion with President H.E. Duma Boko of Botswana to commemorate the historic launch of the African nation's first satellite, BotSat-1. During the event, President Boko shared his vision for Botswana’s economic diversification and highlighted key sectors open for foreign investment. The discussion offered a valuable opportunity to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties, further establishing Los Angeles as a global business hub.
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HUD Secretary Turner Visits Union Rescue Mission
U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner visited Los Angeles this week. He toured burn areas in the Palisades and Altadena and met with the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles. His visit also included a Union Rescue Mission—Los Angeles (URM) tour, where President and CEO Marc Hood guided him through the downtown Skid Row facility. During the visit, the Secretary met with residents, medical and dental teams providing critical services. The Chamber was pleased to join the visit at URM and engage with the Secretary.
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Announcing Paula Natoli as World Trade Week Featured Keynote
Join us for World Trade Week, A New Horizon: Reimagining Trade with Innovation, on Thursday, May 1, as we welcome Paula Natoli, Head of Global Supply Chain Strategic Industries at Google, as the featured keynote speaker. With deep expertise in supply chain innovation and technology, Natoli will provide key insights on global trade trends, innovation and the future of supply chain management. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from industry leaders shaping the future of global commerce. Register today!
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Governor Issues Return-to-Work Order for State Agencies
Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order directing state agencies to update telework policies to four days per week, effective July 1, 2025. The order aims to enhance communication, collaboration, and decision-making while improving service delivery and strengthening oversight and accountability. It may also affect coordination between businesses and agencies, as well as with independent constitutional offices.
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Permitting Reform Report Released by Assembly Select Committee
The California Assembly Select Committee on Permitting Reform, chaired by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, has published its final report examining systemic permitting challenges affecting housing and climate infrastructure projects in California. Over the past year, the Chamber engaged with Assemblymember Wicks to address barriers and solutions to permitting challenges and participated in committee hearings to inform the committee's work. The Chamber will continue collaborating with the committee and partners throughout the legislative session to pursue solutions.
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Trade and Tariffs: Impact on the Los Angeles Economy
Join the L.A. Area Chamber's Global Initiatives Council for an insightful discussion on navigating tariffs and trade regulations, and mitigating their impact on the supply chain and business costs. Register here.
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Department of General Services: Contracting Certifications Workshop
In partnership with the California Department of General Services, the Chamber is hosting an in-person state certification workshop to provide guidance on Small Business, Small Business for Public Works, and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise certifications. This workshop shares how certification can help your business access contracting opportunities and gain a competitive edge to grow your business. The event will take place on March 12 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Register here.
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Together for LA: Resources for Small Businesses Impacted by the L.A. Fire
Small businesses affected by the January 2025 wildfires are invited to participate in a weekly webinar to stay informed about the latest resources available for economic recovery. These sessions will provide important updates on funding opportunities and support for those impacted by the fires. The next webinar is scheduled for March 14. Register here.
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LAUSD: Spring 2025 Small Business Bootcamp
Registration is now open for LAUSD’s Spring 2025 Small Business Bootcamp! This 9-week training program equips small businesses with the knowledge and tools to secure construction contracts with LAUSD. Sessions will be held every Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., from March 19 to May 14. Learn more here.
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Regional Export Training and Assistance Program (RETAP)
Small businesses looking for expert guidance and resources to grow and expand are invited to join the Regional Export Training and Assistance Program (RETAP), launching on March 12, 2025. Hosted by the L.A. Area Chamber, this program provides valuable insights, training, and resources to help businesses navigate global trade and economic opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to gain the tools and support needed to take your business to the next level. Learn more and access program details here. Complete your registration intake here.
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Celebrating Black History Month:
Gerald Thomas, American Red Cross
Gerald Thomas was appointed COO of the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region in 2021, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Red Cross L.A. workforce, including staff and volunteers. A former infantry officer in the U.S. Marine Corps, Thomas led Marines in two combat theaters during his 21 years of service. His career also included roles as a congressional fellow, Marine Corps liaison to the Joint Staff, and Deputy Director of the Marine Corps Congressional Liaison Office to the U.S. House of Representatives. He joined the Chamber’s Board of Governors in 2023.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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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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