L.A. Area Chamber's Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund
Donate to the L.A. Area Chamber Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund to support small businesses impacted by the recent regional wildfires. We remain committed to helping small businesses through this crisis and to ensure they can build back stronger than before. The fund has raised over $1 million to provide critical relief. Although applications are not yet open, help us support our small business community. To learn more visit: lachamber.com/donate.
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L.A. Mayor Bass Extends City Business Tax Filing Deadline
Mayor Karen Bass has extended the city business tax filing deadline from February 28 to April 14 for businesses impacted by the L.A. County wildfires. This extension supports recovery efforts for affected businesses. The Chamber will continue to collaborate with the City of L.A., county and state to advocate for small business support as our region begins the long journey towards recovery. For more information read the full press release.
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California Passes $2.5 Billion Wildfire Relief Package
Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a landmark $2.5 billion wildfire relief package into law, following unanimous approval by the California Legislature. The funding will support recovery efforts for communities affected by recent wildfires, with resources allocated to areas identified in the declared state of emergency. This legislation ensures swift aid for impacted regions, helping to rebuild homes, infrastructure, and communities.
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Chamber Board Receives L.A. County Wildfire Data & Impacts
The L.A. Area Chamber's first Board meeting of the year, addressed the significant impacts of the L.A. County wildfires. Stephen Cheung, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation shared initial assessments for the Palisades and Eaton areas, estimating 20,218 affected parcels and 1,863 impacted companies. Joanne Nowlin, CEO of the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region, shared immediate response and relief efforts for victims of the disaster, highlighting the need for business community collaboration. The Board discussed the immediate response efforts and the important role for the Chamber in rebuilding.
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Assemblymember Caloza Introduces Wildfire Legislation
California Assemblymember Jessica Caloza introduced Assembly Bill 265, the Small Business Recovery Fund Act, to provide critical support for wildfire-impacted communities. The bill establishes a $100 million fund from the General Fund to help small businesses and nonprofits recover and rebuild. Under AB 265, the Office of the Small Business Advocate (OSBA) would administer the fund and distribute grants to those directly affected by the state of emergency declared by Governor Newsom.
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L.A. City Councilmember Park Steps Down as Olympic Committee Chair
Councilmember Traci Park of CD 11 has decided to step down as Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She will now lead the newly established Ad Hoc Committee for L.A. Recovery, focusing on the city's efforts to recover from the recent wildfires. Councilmembers are working together to identify solutions for a quick and effective rebuild process. The Chamber will keep its members informed on the progress of this new committee.
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Port of L.A. Holds 11th Annual ‘State of the Port’
The Port of Los Angeles, a leading gateway for international trade in North America, hosted its 11th annual ‘State of the Port’ this week. Executive Director Gene Seroka outlined key priorities for the organization for 2025, including sustainability, community investment, workforce development, cargo efficiency, and supply chain digitization. Proceeds from the event were raised to support two local nonprofits: EXP and the International Seafarers Center.
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California Competes Tax Credit
The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) program is accepting applications until January 27. This initiative offers tax credits to businesses expanding and creating jobs in California. It supports companies of all sizes by providing financial incentives for growth and investment. If you're looking to expand your operations, now is a great time to apply for funding that can help you achieve your business goals. Learn more and apply here.
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Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund
Small businesses can now apply for the DoorDash Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund, offering $10,000 grants to help restaurants recover from natural disasters. This grant program aims to provide financial assistance to eligible businesses facing unexpected challenges, helping them rebuild and continue serving their communities. Don’t miss this opportunity to secure funding and support your business’s recovery. Learn more and apply here.
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California Insurance Commissioner Hosts Support Workshop
California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara is hosting an insurance support workshop on January 25-26 to assist residents impacted by the recent wildfires. The workshop will offer guidance on navigating insurance claims, understanding coverage options, and accessing available resources. For more information, register to attend the workshop.
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Don't Miss the 2025 Inaugural Reception
With the devastation our community is facing following the wildfires, we come together as a united business community to stand strong for Los Angeles. Join us at the Chamber's annual Inaugural Reception on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 to make a meaningful impact together. For more information, contact Chris Luna here.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Transportation & Goods Movement Council
Please join the Transportation & Goods Movement Council for the first meeting of the year. We will be joined by Marlon Regisford, Deputy District Director for Planning and Local Assistance, District 7 for Caltrans.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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