Long Beach Awarded Grants to 25 Small Businesses

The city distributed $205,000 to local entrepreneurs following a 10-week development program.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Isometric editorial illustration of a generic urban block of shopfronts, representing the support of local small businesses in Long Beach. — The city of Long Beach awarded $205,000 in grants to 25 local small businesses following a 10-week professional development program. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Long Beach officials awarded $205,000 in grants to 25 small businesses as part of the third cohort of the Level Up LB program. The initiative aims to support local enterprises through specialized training and direct financial assistance.

Why it matters

The program helps local businesses build sustainable operations and refine marketing strategies to ensure long-term success. By providing both funding and education, the city aims to foster a more resilient local economy.

The city awarded $10,000 each to 25 primary businesses, while five alternate businesses received $1,000 each. This cohort was selected from 219 total applicants, with 95 applications qualifying for formal panel review.

The players

Economic Development and Opportunity Department

This city agency facilitates growth initiatives and manages resources for small business support in Long Beach.

The details

The Economic Development and Opportunity Department facilitated the program, requiring participants to complete 10 weeks of workshops and business counseling. Through this process, entrepreneurs created comprehensive business and marketing plans to prepare for growth.

September 29, 2026: The culmination ceremony for the third cohort was held.
Fiscal Year 2026: The City Council approved the budget funding for the program.
2025: The city previously awarded $220,000 to 24 small businesses.

Market Landscape

This program reflects a broader trend of municipal investment aimed at stabilizing the local business environment. By prioritizing cohort-based development, the city positions itself to strengthen local economic infrastructure against regional market volatility.

Small business owners can utilize these grant funds to bolster their marketing reach and operational capacity. The program provides a blueprint for local entrepreneurs to refine their business plans and secure essential capital for growth.

The takeaway

The program emphasizes that sustainable business success requires a balance of financial support and professional education. Interested entrepreneurs should monitor future city budget cycles for upcoming funding opportunities and application windows.