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“Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant Program Now Accepting Applications for Long Beach Small Business Owners”
Long Beach small business owners have a new opportunity to level up their companies with the launch of the Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant program. This initiative aims to provide entrepreneurs with the support and resources they need to succeed and be sustainable in today’s competitive market.
The program offers 25 business owners the chance to connect with essential business support resources and participate in comprehensive workshops focused on crafting new business and marketing plans. In addition to the workshops, participants will also receive $10,000 in funding to continue improving their companies.
Mayor Rex Richardson expressed his support for the program, stating that “supporting our small businesses will advance inclusive economic growth for our city.” He encouraged Long Beach small businesses to take advantage of the resources, tools, and programs available through the city and local partners.
The Department of Economic Development will lead the Level Up LB program, with coordination support from local partners within the Inclusive Business Navigators program. This partnership will provide inclusive business outreach, program application assistance, workshops, and one-on-one support for participating businesses.
Businesses selected to participate in the program will receive technical assistance and resources to evaluate their business plans, financials, sales metrics, and growth strategies. Upon completion of the workshop series and business and grant investment plans, participants will be eligible to receive $10,000 in funding, which can be used for equipment upgrades, employee training, facility improvements, and marketing.
The Level Up LB program aligns with the goals of Long Beach’s Racial and Reconciliation Initiative, which aims to facilitate business navigation services through inclusive, neighborhood-based business centers. The program is also made possible by the Long Beach Recovery Act, a plan to fund economic and public health initiatives for residents, workers, and businesses impacted by the pandemic.
Director of Economic Development Bo Martinez emphasized the importance of supporting small businesses, stating that “by shopping and investing in small businesses locally, we are investing in the vibrancy and expansion of our neighborhoods, jobs, and local economy.”
For more information about program eligibility requirements and how to apply, interested small business owners can visit longbeach.gov/levelup. Don’t miss this opportunity to level up your small business and take it to the next level of success!
