Media Release: LA County Announces Economic Opportunity Holiday Grant Program to Support Small Businesses and Nonprofits with $584,000 in Grant Awards

The new Economic Opportunity Holiday Grants are part of DEO’s larger Economic Opportunity Grant (EOG) Program, which has already awarded $55.7 million in grants this year to 5,151 small businesses and nonprofits most affected by the pandemic and other economic disruptions. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the State Office of the Small Business Advocate, these grants have enabled businesses to stay open, retain staff, and invest in their recovery strategies – strengthening the foundation of LA County’s economy.  

“At DEO, we know how important our small businesses and nonprofits are to our economy. We also know how important capital is to small businesses and nonprofits – for recovery, for growth, and for innovation,” said DEO Director Kelly LoBianco. “We are happy to announce our Economic Opportunity Holiday Grant Program and continue to unlock capital opportunities for our amazing community of entrepreneurs.” 

“I cannot think of a better way to celebrate Small Business Saturday than by expanding access to funding for small businesses, which are the economic engine and cultural fabric of our communities," said Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. "Through the County's Economic Opportunity Grant Program, we are equitably distributing American Rescue Act dollars to help reach small businesses across Los Angeles, including women-owned businesses and businesses of color that have historically faced limited access to capital.” 

“We are excited to partner with the County leadership and the County Department of Economic Opportunity in launching the Economic Opportunity Holiday Grants program,” said William Chun, Chief Operating Officer for PACE. “With small businesses and non-profits still trying to survive after the pandemic, this program shows the County’s continuing commitment in helping those that need it the most.” 

According to the National Retail Federation, retail spending in the U.S. is projected to reach record highs this year, with consumers expected to spend an average of $25 per person higher than in previous years. In Los Angeles County, with 90% of businesses employing fewer than 20 people and representing the most diverse business community in the nation, the impact of the holiday shopping season can significantly boost local economies.  

In addition to the Economic Opportunity Holiday Grants, DEO is promoting the Shop Local LA County campaign, aiming to secure community members to support over a million small businesses throughout the County. DEO has teamed up with Microsoft and Align Organization on Digital Upskilling LA County, as part of the Shop Local LA County initiative, offering digital training to small businesses to enhance their online presence, marketing strategies, and e-commerce capabilities. Over 350+ have already participated in workshops, with 50 receiving one-on-one consultations to improve their digital platforms.  Join DEO in shopping local this season by making the pledge or signing up to learn more about our Digital Upskilling LA County offerings: shoplocal.la

To learn more and apply to the Economic Opportunity Holiday Program, eligible small businesses and nonprofit organizations are encouraged to visit here for detailed application instructions, eligibility criteria, and in-language support.