The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity and the Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment have reopened their $100,000 Economic Opportunity Grant Program for Chambers of Commerce, offering increased funding to help small chambers maintain operations and support local businesses.
Applications are being accepted through Oct. 31 at 11:59 p.m., with grants now available up to $7,000 — an increase from the previous $3,000 to $5,000 range when the program first launched in August.
The program targets small, hyperlocal chambers struggling with economic disruptions including pandemic recovery, fire damage and immigration enforcement impacts. Chambers that previously applied will automatically be reconsidered for the increased funding without resubmitting applications.
"Our Chambers of Commerce have worked tirelessly to support small businesses through crisis after crisis," said Kelly LoBianco, director of the Department of Economic Opportunity. "This grant program is a way for the County to directly invest in those organizations that have been the frontline champions of recovery and resilience in every corner of our region."
Eligible chambers must be nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3), 501(c)(6) or 501(c)(19) status serving small businesses in Los Angeles County. Chambers with operating budgets under $1 million may receive up to $5,000, while those with budgets between $1 million and $5 million may receive up to $7,000.
Grant funds can cover operating expenses, payroll, technology upgrades and other COVID-19-related costs. Chambers must have operated prior to Dec. 30, 2021, maintain a commercial location and demonstrate continued service to pandemic-affected small business communities.
Complete applications with required documentation must be submitted online. Grant recipients are expected to be notified and awarded by the end of November.
New applicants can apply at bit.ly/EOGforChambers2025. Full eligibility guidelines, application instructions and frequently asked questions are available at the same link.
Edited by SMDP Staff