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.
At this media briefing, the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) will provide an economic recovery update, outlining the latest resources available to help businesses navigate financial recovery, access legal help, and receive free business development consultancy. The briefing will also highlight innovative programs like the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) initiative, which provides home-based food entrepreneurs with a pathway to legally operate and grow their businesses.
Two small business leaders will also share their firsthand experiences on the challenges they’ve faced in today’s economy and the resources they’ve found to help support their operations. The briefing will offer essential information for business owners seeking assistance and for media outlets covering the ongoing recovery efforts.
Livestream | Friday, Mar 13, 2025 | 12 PM PT
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
Presented by Ethnic Media Services
Cover Image Credit: Canva Photos
