Was Live Thu, Mar 13, 2025 | 12 PM PT
Related Coverage
- Story | LA County Launches Help for Small Businesses After Fires, Pandemic
- YouTube Playlist | Highlights from this Briefing
Guest Speakers
- Kelly LoBianco, Director of the LA Dept of Economic Opportunity
- Ms. Liana Austin, Director of Discovery World Schools
- Mr. Richard Gomeztrejo, owner of WRAPS-TO-GOmeztrejo
- Patrick Nye, Regional Director for the LA/SoCal Small Business Development Center and partner of the LA Dept. of Economic Opportunity
Event Overview
LA County is home to over 1.3 million small businesses with more women and BIPOC-owned businesses than any other US county. While a thriving community, these small businesses continue to recover from the lasting economic setbacks of COVID-19, only to face new challenges brought by the 2025 LA wildfires. To address these hardships, LA County is stepping up efforts to support small and minority-owned businesses with relief funds, legal assistance, and insurance guidance.
The briefing will offer essential information for business owners seeking assistance and for media outlets covering the ongoing recovery efforts. The Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) will provide an update on economic recovery efforts, highlighting key resources available to help businesses navigate financial challenges, access legal assistance, and receive free business development support. The briefing will also introduce innovative programs like the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) initiative, which empowers home-based food entrepreneurs to operate legally and expand their businesses. Additionally, two small business leaders will share firsthand experiences on overcoming economic hurdles and utilizing available support.
Presented by Ethnic Media Services
Cover Image Credit: Canva Photos
