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 second cohort of its Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant Program. This program, launched by the City's Economic Development Department, aims to provide essential support and resources to entrepreneurs in order to help them achieve success and sustainability.

According to Mayor Rex Richardson, small businesses are a vital part of Long Beach's economy, making up 52% of jobs in the city. He believes that the continuation of the Level Up LB Program reflects the city's dedication to supporting these businesses and fostering job creation, innovation, and economic growth.

The program will select 20 small business owners who will receive a variety of support services, workshops, and a grant of $10,000 to help take their business to the next level. The Department will lead the program with assistance from local partners.

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Selected entrepreneurs will have access to resources such as business support services and comprehensive workshops focused on developing new business and marketing plans. After completing a ten-week course, they will receive $10,000 in grant funding to help grow their business.

The application process for Level Up LB is now open until 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 20th, 2025. Businesses will be evaluated based on their need and readiness to participate in the program as well as the potential impact it can have on their business. More information about eligibility requirements can be found on longbeach.gov/levelup.

To assist with the application process, BizCare staff from the Economic Development Department will provide in-person technical assistance on Tuesday, Feb. 11th from 1-4 p.m. and Thursday, Feb. 13th from 8-11 a.m. at the Long Beach Workforce Innovation Network Adult Career Services site (4811 Airport Plaza Dr.). Additional times and locations will be announced on the Level Up LB webpage.

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Bo Martinez, Director of the Economic Development Department, believes that Level Up LB is a direct investment in the dreams and hard work of local entrepreneurs and small businesses. He is proud to provide the necessary support and resources to help these businesses grow and contribute to the community. Martinez also notes that when small businesses succeed, the entire city succeeds.

Last year, 29 small businesses were awarded a total of $266,000 through Level Up LB. As part of the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, the Long Beach City Council has approved a one-time funding of $500,000 to support business improvement districts and small businesses. Of this amount, $250,000 will be allocated towards continuing the Level Up LB 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 4Biz@longbeach.gov. The City is dedicated to helping small businesses thrive and contribute to the economic success of Long Beach.

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