City of Long Beach Launches Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant Program
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Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach Launches Program to Support Small Businesses

The City of Long Beach has announced the launch of a new program aimed at helping small businesses thrive and succeed. The Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant program offers entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to connect with essential business support resources and undergo comprehensive workshops to improve their business plans and marketing strategies. This initiative is part of the city's efforts towards inclusive economic growth.

Mayor Rex Richardson expressed his support for the program, stating that it will take business support in Long Beach to the next level. He encouraged small business owners in the city to take advantage of all the resources, tools, and programs available through the City and its local partners.

The Department of Economic Development will lead the Level Up LB program and oversee all its activities, with support from local partners within the Inclusive Business Navigators program. The selected businesses will receive technical assistance and resources to evaluate their business plans, financials, sales metrics, and identify strategies for growth.

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Participants in the program will have access to a series of no-cost training sessions covering various topics such as one-on-one coaching, connecting with city and local business support resources, strategic planning, marketing, social media promotion, business finance, and government procurement opportunities.

Moreover, businesses that complete their workshop series and submit their business and grant investment plans will be eligible for $10,000 in Level Up LB Grants. These grants can be used for equipment upgrades, technology upgrades, employee training and retention, facility improvements, and marketing.

Bo Martinez, Director of Economic Development for Long Beach emphasized the importance of small businesses in driving economic prosperity in the city. He urged residents to shop locally as it would contribute to job creation and boost the local economy.

Applications for the Level Up LB program are now open until May 16th at 5 p.m. Interested businesses can visit longbeach.gov/levelup for more information on eligibility requirements. The City has also launched the Inclusive Business Navigators program to support the implementation of Level Up LB. This program will provide outreach, application assistance, workshops, and one-on-one support for participating businesses. More information on this program can be found at longbeach.gov/biznavigators or through the City's BizCare Hotline.

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The Level Up LB program aligns with Goal 4 Strategy 2 of Long Beach's Racial and Reconciliation Initiative, which aims to partner with local organizations to provide business navigation services through inclusive, neighborhood-based business centers.

Funding for this program is made possible by the Long Beach Recovery Act, a plan to support economic and public health initiatives for residents, workers, and businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Over $20 million has been allocated for direct business support, with a focus on small businesses and nonprofits heavily affected by the pandemic. More information on the Long Beach Recovery Act can be found at longbeach.gov/recovery.

The Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant program is a valuable opportunity for small businesses in Long Beach to receive support and resources to take their business to the next level. With the city's commitment towards inclusive economic growth and recovery from the pandemic, this program is set to make a positive impact on the local business community.

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