Long Beach small business owners have the opportunity to apply for a new program designed to support their success and sustainability.
The Level Up LB: Micro-Small Business Transformation and Grants Program provides entrepreneurs with the opportunity to connect with critical business support resources and receive comprehensive workshops aimed at creating new business and marketing plans. Applications are due by 5pm on May 21st.
The program provides 25 business owners with support services, workshops, and $10,000 in funding to continue improving their companies.
“Supporting small businesses fosters inclusive economic growth in our city,” Mayor Rex Richardson said in a statement. “With one-on-one coaching and a $10,000 grant, Level Up LB is taking our business support to the next level. Long Beach small businesses have access to all the resources, tools, and tools available to them through the city and local partners. We recommend that you take advantage of the program.”
According to a press release, the Department of Economic Development will lead the Level Up LB program, with coordination support from local partners within the Inclusive Business Navigator program.
The Inclusive Business Navigator program supports the Level Up LB program by conducting inclusive business outreach, providing program application assistance, conducting program workshops, and providing one-on-one support to businesses participating in the program .
According to a recent press release, companies selected to participate in the program will be provided with technical assistance and resources to evaluate their business plans and finances, sales metrics and benchmarks, and growth strategies.
Once business owners complete the workshop series and business and grant investment plan, they will be eligible to receive $10,000 in funding. Level Up LB grants can be used for equipment and technology upgrades, employee training and retention, facility improvements, and marketing.
Level Up LB: The Small Business Transformation and Grants Program aligns with one of the goals of Long Beach’s Race and Reconciliation Initiative. The initiative is to partner with local organizations to promote business navigation services through comprehensive neighborhood-based business centers.
This was also made possible by the Long Beach Recovery Act, a plan to fund economic and public health efforts for Long Beach residents, workers, and businesses affected by the pandemic.
“Our small businesses are essential to the economic prosperity of our city,” said Economic Development Director Beau Martinez. “By shopping local and investing in small businesses, we are investing in neighborhoods, jobs, and the vitality and expansion of our local economies.”
For more information on program eligibility requirements, visit longbeach.gov/levelup.
