LA County Boosts Local Economy with $140,000 in Entrepreneurship Grants

The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) has officially launched a new wave of financial support for local entrepreneurs. As part of a broader commitment to economic mobility, the county has awarded $140,000 in Entrepreneurship Academy Grants to 70 small business owners across the region.

Investing in Local Small Business Growth

Announced on March 24, 2026, these grants are distributed through the Small Business Mobility Fund (SBMF). Each of the 70 selected recipients will receive $2,000 in direct capital. This funding is specifically intended to help entrepreneurs navigate the financial hurdles associated with launching or expanding a business.

The grants provide essential support for critical start-up and operational costs, including:

• Business licensing and permits
• Website development and branding
• Purchase of inventory and equipment
• Intellectual property protections
• Facade and tenant improvements

A Collaborative Effort for Economic Mobility

The SBMF Entrepreneurship Academy Grants Program, first announced on January 8, 2026, is a strategic partnership between the DEO and the Initiating Change in Our Neighborhoods Community Development Corporation (ICON CDC). The initiative is financed through the County’s Care First Community Investment (CFCI) initiative.

This program targets graduates of the DEO’s Entrepreneurship Academies. These academies serve as a foundation for the department’s Economic Mobility Initiative (EMI), which aims to lower barriers to entry for local businesses. By providing a combination of education, technical assistance, and direct capital, the county hopes to foster a more resilient and inclusive local economy.

Key Takeaways

• Direct Investment: $140,000 in total funding has been awarded to support 70 small business owners.
• Grant Amount: Each qualified entrepreneur receives a $2,000 grant.
• Program Purpose: The funding helps cover essential business expenses like branding, equipment, and licensing.
• Strategic Partnership: The initiative is administered by ICON CDC and supported by the county’s CFCI initiative.

Looking Ahead

By focusing on graduates of the Entrepreneurship Academies, Los Angeles County is creating a pipeline for business success. These grants represent a targeted effort to ensure that small businesses—the backbone of the regional economy—have the resources necessary to transition from the training phase to sustainable, long-term growth. As the DEO continues to refine its Economic Mobility Initiative, such partnerships remain vital for expanding access to capital in underserved communities.

For more information on county resources for small businesses, visit the official Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity website.