City of Long Beach Business Brief
September 17, 2021
Welcome to the Economic Development Department's Business Brief! We are continuing to ensure you are updated on the latest business resources and news.
City of Long Beach Health Order on Large Events and Bars
The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department) will align with Los Angeles County and require proof of vaccination at indoor bars, wineries, breweries and distilleries that do not serve food (establishments that are 21+). While not required, the Health Department also strongly recommends that restaurants establish similar proof of vaccination requirements for the safety of its staff and patrons.

Outdoor mega events of 10,000 or more people will require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours prior to attending. Attendees at indoor mega events are already required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test result prior to entry. The City has already proactively implemented this protocol for the largest outdoor event in California, the Acura Grand Prix which is scheduled for Sept 24-26, 2021.

The Department will issue a revised Health Order by the end of the week. To allow time for compliance, patrons and employees will be required to be partially vaccinated by Oct. 7 and fully vaccinated by Nov. 4.
You're invited to the upcoming Long Beach Economic Partnership Quarterly Forum: Accelerate Long Beach // Healthcare & Wellness, on Wednesday, September 22, 2021, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. During this forum you'll hear from the CSULB Office of Economic Research regarding the Long Beach economic picture, and how the healthcare industry strengthens not only our bodies and minds but the community, too. We'll also hear from healthcare industry leaders on how those looking for a career in healthcare can find opportunity, success, and a lifestyle of wellness in Long Beach. Registration and participation are free of charge. Details regarding the 2021 Long Beach Quarterly Economic Forum is provided below:

  • Date: Wednesday, September 22, 2021
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Venue: Virtual online event (Register Here!)
  • Cost: Free
Steve's KIVA Loan
The City of Long Beach Economic Development Department is thrilled to announce the KIVA campaign for Steve's, The Short Company LLC loan is LIVE! Steve's loan will provide the financial resources to work with a world-class marketing agency. Steve's executive coaching and online coursework help's visionary leaders transform their frustrations into movements of change. Currently, the campaign is 39% and is 9 days away from closing!

Check out Steve's KIVA campaign:

Long Beach entrepreneurs can access 0% interest rates, no-fee loans, and up to $15,000 through KIVA (www.kiva.org), a nonprofit organization focused on expanding financial opportunities to small businesses in the community. The City of Long Beach has partnered with LISC-LA to ensure that the business owners, that may be unable to access traditional commercial loans from a bank, can find KIVA loans to be a successful tool to sustain or grow their business.

KIVA Requirements for to business owners:
  • Must be 18 years and older
  • Business must be based in the United States
  • Food, farming, social services, fashion, or retail-based businesses are ideal

The City of Long Beach is now accepting applicants to endorse through the KIVA process. To learn more, call (562) 570-4249.

  • To learn more about other City of Long Beach loan programs click here.
Downtown Long Beach Alliance Woman-Owned Business Accelerator Grant Now Accepting Applications
The Downtown Long Beach Alliance’s (DLBA) Woman-Owned Business Accelerator, in partnership with the Institute for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at California State University Long Beach, and powered by Farmers & Merchants Bank is designed to assist existing women-owned businesses in Downtown Long Beach. The WOBA program provides targeted business assistance and grant funds to support costs associated with recruiting, retaining, or expanding – creating more jobs in Downtown Long Beach.
 
The program will award up to five women-owned businesses, not to exceed $10,000 in total award money. Companies that are “pre-revenue” will be considered and encouraged to apply. Preference is given to businesses supporting online/digital customer acquisition strategies.
Latinx Heritage Month Entrepreneur Panel
Join the Institute for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at California State University Long Beach next week for their Innovation Hour: Latinx Entrepreneurs! Hear from our panelists Noramay Cadena and Sergio Rosas as they explore the intersections of Latinx identity and entrepreneurship. There will be a Q&A session with a networking opportunity. Panel is open for all, reservations are required.
Goldman Sach's 10,000 Small Businesses Fellowship Program
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses provides business education, support services, and access to capital for growth-oriented entrepreneurs. FREE TUITION for qualified candidates. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to growing their business and creating jobs within their community. Applicants should meet the following general guidelines:
  • Applicant must be an owner or co-owner of a business
  • Business in operation for at least one year
  • Business revenues of at least $100,000 in the most recent fiscal year
  • At least 2 employees (including the owner)
Round 9 of the California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Deadline is September 30, 2021
Round 9 of the California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant is now open through Thursday, September 30, 2021. Eligible applicants are current waitlisted applicants from certain previous rounds and new applicants that meet eligibility criteria, eligibility criteria can be found at CAReliefGrant.com. Businesses may be eligible for a grant award between $5,000 – $25,000
Need further assistance applying? Contact the COVID-19 Relief Fund Call Center at (888) 612-4370, Monday through Friday 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM PST.
Contact the City of Long Beach BizCare Hotline for Immediate Assistance:

Phone number: 562-570-4BIZ (4249)
Days: Monday - Friday
Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.

City staff will respond to voicemails made after business hours within 24 hours.