The City of Long Beach Economic Development Department recently rolled out the names of the local small businesses that will benefit from the Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant Program. This initiative is designed to fully support and to potentially catapult participating entrepreneurs toward greater triumphs and enduring stability. According to the city's announcement, the included businesses will be connected with crucial business support resources and attend workshops aimed at honing business and marketing plans. Success in the program will culminate in a $10,000 grant aimed at bolstering their operations.
"Long Beach is committed to supporting its small businesses and fostering an environment where every entrepreneur has the opportunity to thrive," Mayor Rex Richardson said in a statement. This commitment is reflected in the eclectic array of businesses chosen to partake in this program, which is touted to potentially expand the city’s job market, spur innovation, and enhance Long Beach's fiscal robustness. From the start of this initiative, the city was flooded with 183 applications, narrowed down by the Department and its partners to 95 for in-depth analysis by a panel made up of city staff, and local stakeholders.
Notable among the selected businesses encompass a diverse group ranging from culinary artisans like Feel Good Sailing Kitchen and Sal's Gumbo Shack to educational outfits such as Back to Basics Learning Programs, and even niche retailers like Pigeon's Roller Skate Shop. The selection panel prioritized applicants based on their demonstrated need, readiness for program participation, and the anticipated impact of assistance, with an emphasis on creating a diverse mosaic of industries from all regions of the city.
"Small business is big business—they serve as cultural hubs in our neighborhoods and are essential to the economic prosperity of Long Beach," said Economic Development Department Director Bo Martinez. Long Beach aims to notably animate its commercial and community landscape by pitching in to help these businesses flourish while indirectly lifting the broader economy. The city is actively encouraging more small business owners to engage with the Inclusive Business Navigators Program, which will continue to help facilitate the implementation of the makeover and grant program via workshops, personalized support, and additional points of assistance. Interested businesses can reach out via the BizCare Hotline or by email for more guidance.
With a substantial fund allocation north of $20 million, Long Beach continues to enhance not only its local economy but also the destiny of its small entrepreneurs and the diverse communities they serve.
