City of Commerce to Host Small Business Expo for Local Entrepreneurs Sept. 2

COMMERCE — The City of Commerce Community Development Department, in collaboration with the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation, will host a Small Business Expo Tuesday, Sept. 2, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Commerce Senior Center, 2555 Commerce Way.

Centered on the theme “Commerce is Open for Business,” the event will give local entrepreneurs, emerging startups and established companies access to business-growth resources, microbusiness loan information and government support programs.

A key focus of this year’s expo will be the newly established Commerce Advantage Business Grants Program. Supported by a $1,437,500 appropriation from the Food & Brewery District Fund, the program provides financial assistance intended to encourage economic development and strengthen local businesses.

Under program guidelines, eligible existing small businesses operating in Commerce before Jan. 1, 2025, with fewer than 20 full-time equivalent employees may apply for grants of up to $50,000 for business retention, building improvements, equipment purchases and expansion.

Qualifying startup businesses established on or after Jan. 1, 2025, as well as businesses seeking to open a location in Commerce, may qualify for seed-funding grants of up to $25,000.

Expo attendees will be able to speak directly with city
representatives about eligible activities, priority commercial corridors along Washington and Atlantic boulevards and the grant application process.

Mayor Kevin Lainez will serve as the keynote speaker. The expo will also feature a resource fair where participants can learn about upcoming city initiatives supporting local businesses.

Representatives from government agencies, utility providers, financial institutions and business-support organizations will be available to provide one-on-one guidance on access to capital, regulatory requirements and strategic planning.

“The City of Commerce is committed to being a business-friendly community that supports and encourages local entrepreneurs at every stage,” Lainez said. “This expo provides our business owners with direct access to practical resources, ensuring our local commercial sector has the foundation it needs to succeed.”

The evening will also include a networking mixer connecting local business owners with regional partners and civic leaders.
Complimentary hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, music, raffles and giveaways will be offered.

“Our goal is to ensure this event is accessible and welcoming for emerging and established businesses alike,” Community Development Director Jessica Serrano said. “Providing direct access to regional agencies and economic development tools reinforces our ongoing commitment to strengthening Commerce’s economy.”

The Small Business Expo is free to attend. Registration is available through Eventbrite. Additional information is available on the City of Commerce Small Business Expo page.