Santa Monica Named Business-Friendly City Finalist
The city has been shortlisted for the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation honor.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Santa Monica has been named a finalist for the Most Business-Friendly City award for the second consecutive year. The city will compete against six other municipalities at a ceremony scheduled for November 4.
Why it matters
The Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation selects finalists based on strategic actions taken to support local businesses and strengthen regional economies. This recognition highlights the city's efforts to simplify regulations and foster a more welcoming environment for commercial growth.
The city invested $60 million into its Realignment Plan, which generated $29 million in new programmatic revenue during its first year. Additionally, 17 new businesses have committed to opening in Santa Monica following these administrative updates.
The players
Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation
This organization manages the EDDY Awards and promotes economic development across the region.
The details
Santa Monica improved its economic environment by updating zoning laws, lowering fees, and eliminating its portion of the wastewater capacity charge for businesses. The city also implemented a new Business Concierge service and commercial activation efforts to streamline permit processes.
Timeline
October 2025: City adopted the Realignment Plan.
November 14, 2025: Glendale won the business-friendly award.
Summer 2026: City hosted FIFA World Cup community programs.
November 4, 2026: Award winners announced at Rose Bowl ceremony.
February 2027: ESPN broadcast center opens for Super Bowl.
Market Landscape
This award process tracks a broader regional push for municipalities to streamline business regulations to attract commercial investment. Santa Monica is currently vying for the title previously held by the 2025 winner, Glendale.
Local businesses may see continued improvements in permit processing times and reduced administrative fees due to the city's ongoing Realignment Plan. These policy shifts are designed to lower operating costs for local entrepreneurs and retailers.
The takeaway
Santa Monica's focus on simplifying business regulations has translated into measurable revenue growth and new commercial commitments. Other local business owners should watch for continued updates to city zoning and fee structures that could further impact their bottom lines.
What happens next
The winners of the Most Business-Friendly City award will be announced during a ceremony at the Rose Bowl on November 4, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest commercial developments and business shifts in the Openings & Closings section.
Live Poll
Is your local government doing enough to make the area business-friendly for new shops and restaurants?
