Los Angeles, CA, January 2, 2026
Los Angeles County has launched a $1.53 million grant initiative to support 367 small businesses facing financial challenges due to federal immigration enforcement actions. The funding, part of the Small Business Resiliency Fund, aims to help affected enterprises recover and thrive amidst economic difficulties while emphasizing the critical role of small businesses in the local economy. Additional funding rounds are planned to assist even more businesses struggling in the current climate.
Los Angeles County Supports Small Businesses with $1.53 Million Grant
Aiding Local Enterprises Amid Immigration Enforcement Challenges
Los Angeles, CA – In a timely response to the difficulties posed by federal immigration enforcement actions, Los Angeles County has allocated $1.53 million in grants to assist 367 small businesses. This initiative, championed by county officials, highlights the importance of small businesses in maintaining a vibrant local economy and seeks to alleviate the financial strains that have emerged due to these federal actions.
The grants, part of the Small Business Resiliency Fund, represent a significant investment in the community. With the entrepreneurial spirit robust in Los Angeles, this support aims to bolster resilience among small enterprises facing unprecedented challenges. By facilitating access to funding, the county demonstrates its commitment to fostering an environment conducive to business growth, despite regulatory hurdles.
Grant Details
The Small Business Resiliency Fund is designed to help businesses recover from financial disruptions attributable to immigration enforcement. Eligible businesses can use the funds for essential expenses including rent, payroll, inventory purchases, marketing efforts, and debt repayment. Following the first round of funding, plans for additional rounds are already underway to assist a broader range of enterprises in the future.
Assessing Economic Impact
According to an economic analysis by the Department of Economic Opportunity, from June to December 2025, Los Angeles County experienced significant economic ramifications attributed to the federal immigration enforcement activities. The county saw an estimated reduction of about 11,730 jobs, leading to a loss of approximately $932 million in labor income and a staggering $2.5 billion decline in overall economic output. Local governments were not spared, facing fiscal losses of roughly $379 million during this period. These findings underscore the importance of initiatives like the Small Business Resiliency Fund in mitigating adverse economic impacts.
Community Response
Local leaders, including Los Angeles County officials, have expressed deep concern regarding the detrimental effects that federal immigration raids have imposed on communities and small businesses. Notably, these officials emphasize that small businesses are fundamental to the local economy, providing not only employment but also essential services that bolster community cohesion. This sentiment lays the foundation for continued support initiatives aimed at empowering small business owners to persevere through these trials.
Future Funding and Program Expansion
The Small Business Resiliency Fund originated from the county’s Care First Community Investment program. In light of the high demand for support, the Board of Supervisors has approved an additional $3.33 million for future grant rounds, projected to assist over 650 more businesses. Those businesses that were not selected in the first round have been placed on a waitlist and will have the opportunity to apply for funding in subsequent distributions planned for early 2026.
Context and Ongoing Support
Los Angeles County has a track record of implementing relief programs aimed at supporting small businesses during times of adversity, such as natural disasters or economic downturns. The current initiative is a continuing effort to provide timely and relevant financial assistance to enterprises adversely affected by federal actions. This approach reinforces the county’s recognition of the crucial role small businesses play in economic revitalization and community stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Small Business Resiliency Fund?
The Small Business Resiliency Fund is a program established by Los Angeles County to provide financial assistance to small businesses affected by federal immigration enforcement actions. The fund offers grants to help businesses cover essential expenses such as rent, payroll, inventory, marketing, and debt repayment.
How much funding has been allocated to the Small Business Resiliency Fund?
Los Angeles County has allocated $1.53 million in grants to 367 small businesses in the first round of the Small Business Resiliency Fund. Additional funding rounds are planned to support more businesses in the future.
What are the eligibility criteria for the grants?
Eligible businesses must be located and headquartered in Los Angeles County, have annual revenue of $6 million or less, and employ fewer than 100 individuals. The grants are intended for businesses that have experienced financial hardships due to federal immigration enforcement actions.
How can businesses apply for the grants?
Businesses can apply for the grants through the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity. The application process involves submitting necessary documentation to demonstrate eligibility and the impact of immigration enforcement actions on the business.
When is the next round of funding expected?
A second round of funding is planned for early 2026, depending on available resources. Businesses that were not selected in the first round have been placed on a waitlist for this upcoming round.
Key Features of the Small Business Resiliency Fund
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | $1.53 million allocated in the first round |
| Number of Businesses Supported | 367 small businesses |
| Eligible Expenses | Rent, payroll, inventory, marketing, debt repayment |
| Eligibility Criteria | Businesses located in Los Angeles County with annual revenue of $6 million or less and fewer than 100 employees |
| Future Funding | Additional $3.33 million approved for future grant rounds |
In summary, Los Angeles County’s $1.53 million investment in small businesses not only addresses immediate financial crises but also contributes to long-term economic recovery and innovation. By supporting our local enterprises, we fortify the backbone of our economy. It is essential for community members to recognize the importance of small businesses and consider ways to support them, whether through patronage or advocacy for continued investment in their growth.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
California’s Population Growth Reflects Resilience and Potential
TSA Implements New $45 Fee for Non-REAL ID Air Travelers
Maná Expands ‘Vivir Sin Aire Tour’ with New Dates in LA
Los Angeles Commemorates Juneteenth with Diverse Celebrations
Local Businesses Rally for Recovery in Los Angeles County
California Faces $18 Billion Budget Deficit
Antonio Gates Linked to Alleged Rigged Poker Games
Impact of ICE Raids on Local Businesses in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Declares State of Emergency for Tenants Amid Immigration Raids
Los Angeles County Declares State of Emergency for Immigration Raids
Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER
The LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELosAngeles.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and beyond, specializing in "news you can use" with coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while delivering top reporting on high-value events like the Academy Awards, LA Auto Show, and Los Angeles Marathon, extending coverage to key organizations such as the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, plus leading businesses in entertainment and technology like Warner Bros. and SpaceX, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREAnaheim.com , HERECostaMesa.com , HEREHuntingtonBeach.com , and HERESantaAna.com , providing comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape. HERE Anaheim HERE Beverly Hills HERE Coronado HERE Costa Mesa HERE Hollywood HERE Huntington Beach HERE Long Beach HERE Los Angeles HERE Mission Viejo HERE San Diego HERE Santa Ana
