L.A. Area Chamber Testifies on L.A. Convention Center Expansion at City Hall
This week, the Chamber continued working with partner business associations and labor to voice strong support for the modernization of the Convention Center. Not only would an expanded facility benefit our tourism sector, but by bringing significant second and third-order economic benefits to Los Angeles, this project should be a top priority for a City government facing a historic fiscal crisis. Despite being the second-largest city in the country, Los Angeles currently ranks in the twenties in the nation for events at our Convention Center. We need the investments to drive long-term success, increase revenue for the General Fund, and create support for over half a million jobs.
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Los Angeles Legislators Push for Transit Funds
Members of the Los Angeles County delegation of state legislators have begun an effort to earmark funds from the state's cap-and-trade program. In a letter to Governor Newsom, the legislators requested an annual allocation of $3.3 billion for L.A. County transit projects. The request is likely a response to efforts to dedicate some of the funds to the California High-Speed Rail project. The Chamber will monitor these developments as the Legislature closes out its session in the coming days.
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L.A. Area Chamber, Bank of America, & Lendistry Review the Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund’s Progress
The Chamber’s Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund has provided grants to small businesses in the wildfire disaster impact zone, supporting 230 businesses to date. Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas and Everett Sands of Lendistry met with Raul A. Anaya of Bank of America and his team to review the fund’s progress and impact from this initial round. As the inaugural funder, Bank of America has played a pivotal role in launching the fund. Together with the Chamber, they are committed to strengthening the small business ecosystem. Looking ahead, the Chamber will continue its efforts with Lendistry to bring additional capital resources to the fund, addressing the ongoing needs of small businesses impacted by the wildfires.
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Los Angeles Philharmonic’s Economic Report Highlights Significant Impact
As the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s summer season at the Hollywood Bowl wraps up, a new report highlights its remarkable cultural and economic impact. While rooted in the belief that music can connect, inspire, and remain accessible to all, the LA Phil also plays a key role in our regional economy. In 2024, the LA Phil generated $947.4 million for California’s economy, supported 4,600 jobs throughout LA County, and produced $56.5 million in state tax revenue. The study also cites $370 million in labor income, $570 million in added regional value, and 1.7 million attendees across its three primary venues. Beyond its artistic contributions, the LA Phil stands as a vital force in Los Angeles’ creative economy and community resilience. Read the full report here.
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Make The Chamber’s Voice Heard on Broadband Access
As part of the Chamber’s ongoing support of Verizon’s proposed acquisition of Frontier, which will improve the availability of affordable broadband in our region, we have delivered public comment in proceedings before the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). We invite you all to amplify our advocacy by taking this brief survey to share your perspective and send a personalized letter to the key decision makers.
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Port of Long Beach Seeks Nonprofits for Community Sponsorships
The Port of Long Beach is now accepting applications for its Community Sponsorship Program through September 30. Nonprofit organizations are invited to apply for funding for events focused on education, arts, the environment, social justice, or historic preservation. This is a great opportunity to get support for your events while helping the Port inform the community about its vital role in the city. To apply, visit here.
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LA28 Provides Updates to Small Business Advocates and Community Leaders
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce participated in a City Hall meeting with the Mayor’s team, during which LA28 shared key supplier updates for the upcoming Olympic & Paralympic Games, including a 75% local-spend goal and a 25% small-business participation target, as well as unbundled scopes and micro-purchases to widen access. Additional opportunities will roll out in phases. Click here to view the brief of the meeting.
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Fueling Small Business Growth with SCALE
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s SCALE program is designed to help small businesses access the capital they need to succeed. Through low-interest loans, credit enhancements, and hands-on guidance, SCALE equips entrepreneurs to build strong loan packages and overcome financing challenges. Learn more here. To provide even more support, the Chamber is hosting a free webinar, “Small Business Financing – What You Need to Know to SCALE!” on Wednesday, September 17, at 10:00 a.m. This session will cover practical strategies for securing startup capital, working capital, and other financing solutions. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your business. Register here today.
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Apply to the City of Santa Monica’s Small Business Matching Grant Program
Santa Monica’s Small Business Matching Grant Program provides up to $10,000 to help Pico Boulevard businesses improve storefronts with upgrades like signage, lighting, and security. This dollar-for-dollar matching grant covers up to 50% of costs, with priority for minority-, women-, and LGBTQ+-owned businesses. Learn more and apply here.
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Your Health, Closer to Home: Kaiser Permanente Care at Target Clinics
Accessing convenient, same-day care for everyday ailments is now easier than ever. Kaiser Permanente has partnered with Target to offer on-site clinics for minor illnesses and injuries. Located inside select stores, these clinics provide fast, easy care for issues like sore throats and rashes. With most appointments lasting just 20 to 30 minutes, you can get the care you need quickly and without a Kaiser Permanente membership. This is a convenient alternative to traditional urgent care. Learn more or book an appointment here.
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Build Your Network, Influence Policy, and Grow with the Chamber
The Chamber's Membership Directory showcases the strength and diversity of the businesses that are driving our region forward. Now is a crucial time to engage and help shape L.A.'s future. Join us to build powerful networks, shape smart policy, and ensure our city remains a world-class destination for business. Learn more and become a member here.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Transportation & Goods Movement Policy Council
Tuesday, September 9, 8:30 a.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join the upcoming Transportation & Goods Movement Council to hear from featured speaker Gene Seroka, Executive Director, Port of Los Angeles.
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Pancakes & Politics
Thursday, September 18, 8:30 a.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join us for the next Pancakes & Politics session with featured speaker Hon. John Harabedian, California State Assemblymember for the 41st District, hosted at the City Club Los Angeles.
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Women in Leadership
Wednesday, October 1, 3:30 p.m.
Join the L.A. Area Chamber for our next Women in Leadership session, featuring a special presentation from McKinsey & Company on the Women in the Workplace: The 10th-Anniversary Report.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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