City of Long Beach Awards $85,000 to Local Startups and Micro-Entrepreneurs
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~ Long Beach, CA - The City of Long Beach is proud to announce the success of its Inclusive Business Navigators Microgrant Program, which awarded $85,000 in grants to 29 startups and micro-entrepreneurs on October 9, 2024. This program, funded through the Long Beach Recovery Act, aims to support small businesses and entrepreneurs in launching or growing their ventures.

Mayor Rex Richardson expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating that "Long Beach welcomes and supports micro-entrepreneurs and startups across all industries and professions." He believes that by providing resources and access to capital, the city can foster a vibrant local economy built on creativity and collaboration.

The application period for the Microgrant Program ran from July 29 to August 26, 2024. Out of 167 applications received by the City's Economic Development Department (Department), 115 qualified for review. After careful consideration, 29 businesses were selected based on the strength of their business plans and potential for growth. Of these awardees, 24 received $2,500 grants while five received $5,000 grants.

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Some of the selected businesses include Catalina Reynoso Law, Dreamy Vegan, Green Essence Cleaning, Modern Noble International, Pop! Art Studios and The Counseling Clinic. These diverse businesses represent a range of industries and professions in Long Beach.

Bo Martinez, Director of the Economic Development Department, emphasized the city's commitment to investing in local entrepreneurs. "We're dedicated to providing essential tools and funding to help launch and grow small businesses," he stated. "We congratulate the 29 recipients of our Microgrant Program and look forward to their continued success in Long Beach."

This program aligns with Goal 4 Strategy 2 of Long Beach's Racial Reconciliation Initiative which aims to partner with local organizations to provide business navigation services through inclusive neighborhood-based centers. It also supports Goal 1 Strategy 8, which focuses on increasing access to capital for business ownership.

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The Microgrant Program is just one of the many initiatives under the Long Beach Recovery Act, a plan to fund economic and public health initiatives for residents, workers, and businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Over $20 million has been allocated to provide direct business support, with a focus on small businesses and nonprofits heavily affected by the pandemic.

In addition to the Microgrant Program, the Department has also awarded $266,000 in grants to 29 small businesses citywide through its Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant Program. These efforts demonstrate the City's dedication to creating economic opportunities for workers, investors, and entrepreneurs.

For those interested in learning more about programs and resources for small businesses in Long Beach, they can contact the City's BizCare Hotline at 562.570.4BIZ (4249) or email 4Biz@longbeach.gov. The City remains committed to supporting its local businesses and helping them thrive in these challenging times.

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