City of Long Beach to Open Applications for Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant Program
The Californer/10339504

Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The City of Long Beach is once again showing its commitment to supporting small businesses with the announcement of the opening of applications for the third cohort of its award-winning program, Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant Program (Level Up LB). This program, led by the Long Beach Department of Economic Development & Opportunity (EDO), aims to assist 20 small business owners in taking their businesses to the next level through supportive services, workshops, and a $10,000 grant.

Mayor Rex Richardson emphasized the importance of small businesses in driving the local economy and providing jobs for the community. He stated, "With another round of Level Up LB, we're reaffirming our commitment to the entrepreneurs who create jobs, spark innovation and help shape a stronger, more connected economic future for our city."

Selected entrepreneurs will have access to essential business support and resources as well as comprehensive workshops focused on strengthening their business and marketing plans. Upon completion of an eight-week course, they will receive grant funding to help grow their small business. The EDO will lead this program with support from local partners such as Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, Long Beach SBDC, SCORE Long Beach/South Bay, and Visit Long Beach.

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Applications for Level Up LB will be open until Tuesday, Mar. 31, 2026. Interested individuals can find information about eligibility requirements on longbeach.gov/levelup. In-person technical assistance with the application process will also be provided by EDO's BizCare staff on Thursday, Feb. 19 from 9 a.m. to noon and Tuesday, Feb. 24 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Long Beach Workforce Innovation Network Adult Career Services site.

EDO Director Bo Martinez highlighted that Level Up LB is not just about providing financial support but also investing in the people behind these small businesses. He stated, "We are proud to support local entrepreneurs with the resources they need to grow and succeed, because when small businesses thrive, Long Beach thrives."

Last year, 24 small businesses were awarded a total of $220,000 through Level Up LB. This year, as part of the Mayor's Small Business Rebound Initiative, the Long Beach City Council has approved one-time funding of $230,000 for the continuation of this program.

For more information about Level Up LB and other assistance for small businesses, interested individuals can visit longbeach.gov/bizcare or contact the City's BizCare Hotline at 562.570.4BIZ (4249) or email BizCare@longbeach.gov.

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