City Awards $220,000 to Level Up Small Businesses

The City received 229 applications for the program, of which 121 qualified for review by a selection panel. Panelists consisted of City staff and representatives from the City’s Economic Development Commission, local business organizations and small businesses. Businesses were scored and selected for their need and readiness to participate, the potential impact of the program to their business and diversity of representation across all parts of the city and multiple industries. Twenty-four businesses, which include a mix of restaurants, retail shops and health and wellness facilities throughout the city, were selected to participate. 

In May, Level Up LB was recognized by the California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED) with an Award of Merit in the category of programs and promotions.

Participating entrepreneurs completed a series of workshops, received personalized business counseling and established comprehensive business plans over the course of the 10-week program. Twenty small businesses have been awarded $10,000 in grant funding. Additionally, four more businesses that were selected as alternates and successfully completed the program were each awarded $5,000 grants. Businesses also received a one-year membership to the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and a marketing package from Visit Long Beach.