L.A. City Council Economic Development Committee Discusses Living Wage Ordinance
On Wednesday, the Los Angeles City Council's Economic, Community Development, and Jobs Committee held a special meeting to discuss the Tourism Living Wage Ordinance. L.A. Area Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas, representing the business community testified and shared concerns, during public comment, emphasizing the negative impact the current ordinance could have on small businesses. Salinas also highlighted key gaps in the recently released ordinance economic study. The Chamber will continue to monitor this issue closely and keep its members informed.
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Paris Delegation Shares Key Insights with L.A. Ahead of 2028 Olympics
This week, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass welcomed a delegation of Paris officials for the “Paris 2024 Olympic & Paralympic Games After Action Summit.” The delegation shared valuable insights through a series of panel discussions on business procurement, sustainability, transit, and accessibility as L.A. prepares for the 2028 Olympics. A key discussion moderated by Council President Emeritus Paul Krekorian, Paris officials and Deputy Mayor Rachel Freeman, focused on the Paris Games collaboration with the private sector. The Chamber will continue to participate in LA28 preparation efforts with the City of Los Angeles.
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Chamber Discusses 2028 Olympic Opportunities
L.A. Area Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas authored an op-ed in C-Suite Quarterly on how Los Angeles businesses can prepare for the opportunities presented by the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She emphasized the importance of collaboration to ensure that LA28 highlights L.A.'s strengths while creating a lasting legacy of opportunity, innovation, and prosperity for all Angelenos. Read the op-ed here.
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Are you prepared for the November Election? Review the Chamber's Voter Guide
Elections play an important role in shaping the future of our nation, state, and region. With the November 5 General Election fast approaching, the L.A. Area Chamber has released an informative Voter Guide. This guide offers our recommendations to ballot propositions, measures, and candidates. The Voter Guide reflects the Chamber’s comprehensive review and analysis. View, print and share the guide.
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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Shares Employment Projections
The Chamber hosted an exclusive presentation with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) on employment projections for the next decade. Chamber members had the opportunity to engage with BLS staff to discuss how these trends may impact the regional workforce and how education institutions and skill-based training programs can best prepare for the changes ahead. To view the BLS Employment Projections visit here.
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Ad Hoc Committee on Homelessness Discusses Leadership Table Initiatives
This week, the Chamber's Ad Hoc Committee on Homelessness convened and heard from Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO of the L.A. Area Chamber, regarding the County's Leadership Table's ongoing efforts. This coalition of L.A. County leaders is focused on developing a unified action plan to address and prevent homelessness. Additionally, the committee reviewed Measure A and discussed the Chamber's future involvement in these critical efforts.
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City Council Advances Overhaul of Business Tax System
On October 15, the L.A. City Council passed a motion directing the Director of Finance to update the city's outdated business tax system, which currently includes obsolete classifications like bookbinding and coin-operated jukeboxes. The goal is to modernize the tax code, enhance transparency, and better support small businesses. The proposed roadmap will outline changes the council can enact and broader reforms that may require voter approval in 2026. The Chamber is actively engaging to ensure these reforms support a competitive business environment while encouraging the city's long-term financial stability.
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Polish Investment and Trade Agency Discusses Procurement Opportunities with Chamber
The Polish Investment and Trade Agency S.A. visited the L.A. Area Chamber to explore possible procurement opportunities for Polish businesses in relation to the upcoming global sporting events in Los Angeles, with a particular emphasis on the 2028 Olympic Games.
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Port of Long Beach Hosts Harbor Tour for Diplomatic and Economic Officials
The L.A. Area Chamber and the Port of Long Beach hosted a harbor tour for the Diplomatic & Commercial Officers Group, the Los Angeles Regional Export Council, and several economic development officials. Participants enjoyed an up-close look at the Port of Long Beach, and gained insights into its daily operations, environmental initiatives, and the ports innovative projects.
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OneLA Procurement Fair: Meet the Buyer Training Workshop
Want to meet with buyers at the OneLA Inclusive Procurement Fair? Sign up today for a matchmaking appointment to help your business get in the game and qualify for a one-on-one "Meet the Buyer" workshop happening on October 21. This workshop will prepare your organization, provide valuable insights on securing government contracts, and help expand your business network. Register here.
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Get in the Game with Chamber's Economic Mobility Initiative
Get ready to "Get in the Game" and seize incredible opportunities in Los Angeles as the 2028 Olympics fast approaches! Join the Chamber's Economic Mobility Initiative (EMI) free training program, designed to support small businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits across L.A. County. Powered by the OneLA Inclusive Procurement program, EMI offers tailored guidance on navigating contracts, certifications, and more. This comprehensive resource hub is your key to building a stronger business for long-term success. Sign up here.
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L.A. County Second District Business Interruption Fund
Don't miss the chance to apply for the Business Interruption Fund (BIF) grant! This program offers up to $10,000 in funding to help businesses affected by disruptions like natural disasters, construction, or civil unrest. Applications are open until November 7, 2024. Apply today to strengthen your business! For details and eligibility, visit here.
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South Bay Economic Forecast
Join the 10th Annual South Bay Economic Forecast at California State University, Dominguez Hills! This event will offer insights into the region’s economic trends, emerging industries, and cutting-edge technologies. Connect with influential business, education, civic, and government leaders as they discuss the future of the South Bay and explore growth and collaboration opportunities. Don’t miss this event, stay informed and engaged. Register here.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Diplomatic & Commercial Officers Group
Wednesday, October 23, 8:30 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join us for the next Diplomatic & Commercial Officers Group meeting, where we will explore the EU AI Act, the world's first comprehensive legal framework for artificial intelligence (AI). The conversation will explore what this means for businesses and examine similar efforts taking place in the U.S.
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Travel, Tourism & Sports Council
Wednesday, October 16, 9:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the Travel, Tourism, and Sports Council meeting for updates impacting the region.
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Women's Policy Council
Wednesday, October 23, 4:30 p.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the Women Policy Council for a policy discussion on technical assistance for women entrepreneurs at various levels of government. Attend an exclusive briefing from L.A. County Supervisors staff regarding county efforts to support women entrepreneurs through technical assistance.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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