Economic Mobility Initiative
Powering Businesses, Empowering Our Communities
The LA County Economic Mobility Initiative (EMI) expands the Department of Economic Opportunity’s Office of Small Business (OSB) by partnering with community partners to reach and support the region’s entrepreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits—especially those in historically disinvested communities. In addition to OSB’s Small Business Concierge and Certification and Contracting services, EMI offers assessments and referrals for education, training, technical assistance, access to capital, and commercial space through DEO and trusted organizations. These supports help diverse local businesses and nonprofits start, grow, participate in inclusive development, and build generational wealth. EMI’s programs, services, and resources will continue to evolve with the needs of the small business and nonprofit community and the region’s economy.
This program is made possible by the American Rescue Plan Act, Care First Community Investment, and a June 2021 motion introduced by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors that aimed to support BIPOC, women, and other historically disinvested communities in overcoming barriers to small business start-up and growth.
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Entrepreneurship Academies
The LA County Entrepreneurship Academy provides early‑stage business owners and entrepreneurs with cohort-based and one‑on‑one instruction delivered by partners across all five Supervisorial Districts. Participants learn foundational business practices, receive mentorship, and graduate with a completed business plan and continued support for capital and growth opportunities.
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Technical Assistance and Training
EMI offers a range of training and technical assistance programs—both cohort-based and one‑on‑one—that help reduce barriers and expand opportunities for small businesses and nonprofits. Support includes legal guidance, new organizational and revenue models, and assistance with certification and contracting.
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Access to Capital and Commercial Space
Grants and loans for small businesses and nonprofits to strengthen operations and impact, including support for predevelopment, acquisition, commercial corridor revitalization, façade and tenant improvements, business formalization, transition to commercial spaces, and marketing.
How to Apply
Step 1: Complete the common intake form to connect with all applicable programs, or submit a program-specific application as directed on individual program pages.
Step 2: Get connected with an EMI team member and complete an initial assessment
Step 3: Participate in and benefit from one or more EMI programs!
Initiative Highlights
Kelly LoBianco
By partnering with community-based organizations and leveraging their expertise, the Economic Mobility Initiative is poised to offer personalized business assistance from the concept stage to growth. This comprehensive support system is designed to catalyze sustainable, multi-generational economic growth.