TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome from the 2025 Board Chair 6

Welcome from the President & CEO 8

Board of Governors 12

Diamond Investors 14

Centennial Club 18

The Chamber’s Focus 20

Industry and Policy Councils 24

What our Members say 28

Yearly Events 32

Creating the Workforce of the Future 36

Fund Offers Relief for Wildfire-Impacted Small Businesses 40

Vision 2028 44

Regional Economy 50

Get in the Game, Other Chamber Initiatives

Lead Small Business Support 54

Together for LA 58
Member Search 58

Welcome

LETTER FROM THE 2025 BOARD CHAIR

It is a privilege to be your 2025 Board Chair. What an incredible time for the Los Angeles region!

As we prepare to welcome the world to our doorstep with upcoming global events including the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, 2026 U.S. Women’s Open, 2027 Super Bowl, and 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games, we stand on the brink of a new era of excitement, unity, and opportunity.

Over the next few years, we will catalyze economic growth, revitalize our infrastructure, boost our local businesses, and invest in our future. We will ensure that the legacy of these world events benefit generations of Angelenos to come.

The Chamber’s storied history as a hub of innovation, creativity, and diversity has always set us apart. It has put us at the forefront of all the challenges and opportunities in our region, and this year is no different. We are locked in on our Vision for 2028 & Beyond and are ready to help the region Get in the Game!

Thank you again for joining our Board, and together, we will rise to the occasion and make the region shine for all!

George Pla

2025 Board Chair

President & CEO

Cordoba Corporation

Welcome

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO

The past year has been one of profound transformation and forward momentum for the Los Angeles region. At the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, we have remained steadfast in our mission to build a thriving region for all, ensuring that businesses across our diverse economy have the tools, resources, and advocacy they need to succeed.

From championing policies that spur economic growth to delivering innovative programs that empower businesses of all sizes, our work has been bold, strategic, and future-focused. Even as our region faced unprecedented challenges — including the devastating Eaton and Palisades Fires, two of the most destructive wildfires in California’s history — we rose to meet the moment. These fires ravaged more than 37,000 acres, destroyed over 16,000 structures, and claimed 29 lives. In the face of this tragedy, the Chamber mobilized quickly to support recovery efforts, promote resilience, and drive long-term economic vitality.

As rebuilding continues, Los Angeles moves forward with determination and purpose. The world is watching as we prepare to host a series of global sporting events over the next three years — including the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics—offering an extraordinary opportunity to showcase our region’s strength, diversity, and commitment to an inclusive and sustainable future.

Thanks to the leadership of our Board and the dedication of our team, we have advanced initiatives that strengthen our economy, foster innovation, and expand opportunity across all communities. Grounded in our core values—to be Bold, Transformative, Inclusive, and Responsible—we are helping shape a resilient, equitable, and prosperous Los Angeles.

To our Board, members, sponsors, and partners: thank you for your continued partnership and unwavering commitment. Together, we are building a stronger Los Angeles—today and for generations to come.

Maria S. Salinas

President & CEO

Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce

Board of Governors

Board Leadership

George Pla

2025 Board Chair

Founder & President

Cordoba Corporation

Andy Park

First Vice Chair

Managing Partner

Los Angeles Office, EY

Sean Burton

Second Vice Chair

CEO

Cityview

Greg T. Geyer

Treasurer

Partner

KPMG LLP

A.G. Spanos

Immediate Past Chair

President, Business Operations

Los Angeles Chargers

Maria S. Salinas

President & CEO

Los Angeles Area

Chamber of Commerce

Board MEMBERS

John Ackerman

CEO

Los Angeles World Airports

Paul Albarian

President, Greater

Los Angeles

Lockton Insurance Brokers, LLC

Raul Anaya

President - Greater

Los Angeles Region

Bank of America

Eduardo Angeles

Director State Local Government Affairs

American Airlines

Jeff Ball

President and CEO

Orange County Business Council

Christopher Barton Executive Vice President, Operations & Development

Hudson Pacific Properties

Ryan Bates

Los Angeles Regional Officer & Senior Counsel & Western Region Team Leader

Mitsui & Company (U.S.A.), Inc.

Rick Bechtel

EVP, Mortgage & Residential Lending

City National Bank

Erika Beck

President

California State University, Northridge

Rick Benbow

Regional Vice President

West Region

Western Governors University

Claudia Bodan

Los Angeles Region

Manager

BMO

Elizabeth Brink

Co-Managing Principal,

SW Region

Gensler

Troy Brown

Vice President of Recruitment &

Enrollment

University of West

Los Angeles

Elise Buik

President & CEO

United Way of Greater Los Angeles

Adam Burke

President & CEO

Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board

Sean Burton*

President & CEO

City View

Maria Camacho

Government Affairs

Los Angeles Rams

David Carey

President, Los Angeles/Nevada Market Unit

Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling Company

Jeff Carlin

Counsel

Alston & Bird LLP

Alberto Carvalho

Superintendent

Los Angeles Unified School District

Jesus Chaves

President and General Manager

TelevisaUnivision

Stephen Cheung

President

Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation

Larry Chung

Vice President for Local Public Affairs

Southern California Edison

Mario Cordero

Chief Executive Officer

Port of Long Beach

Salvatrice Cummo

Vice President

Pasadena City College

Joseph Dean

Vice President of Real Estate, Southern California

Clear Channel Outdoor, Inc.

Dana Debel

Managing Director, State & Local Government Affairs

Delta Air Lines

Juan De La Cruz

President, Charitable Foundation | Government Relations Executive

Adventist Health White Memorial

Karla Diaz Sayles

Vice President

Southern California Edison

Charlene Dimas-Peinado

President & CEO

Wellnest

Victor Dominguez

Executive Vice President & Chief Mission Advancement Officer

YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles

Darin Drabing

President & CEO

Forest Lawn Memorial

Park Association

Zoila Escobar

AVP, Development

AltaMed Health Services Corporation

Christine Essel

President & Chief Executive Officer

Southern California Grantmakers

Jeffery Etherington

Director Sales & Community Marketing

Alaska Airlines

Joel Farrier

Southwest Division General Manager

Mott MacDonald

Santiago Ferrer

Managing Director and Senior Partner

BCG

Wayne Feuerborn

President

HNTB Corporation, West Divison

Steve Finnegan

Manager, Public and Government Affairs

Automobile Club of Southern California

Andrew Fogg

Partner

Cox, Castle & Nicholson, LLP

Allen Fore

VP, Public Affairs

Kinder Morgan

Papia Gambelin

Managing Director – State & Local Government Affairs Western Region

United Airlines

Samuel Garrison

Senior Vice President, University Relations

University of Southern California

Greg Geyer*

Partner

KPMG LLP

Paul Granillo

President and Chief Executive Officer

Inland Empire Economic Partnership

Stephanie Graves

President/ CEO

Lee Andrews Group, Inc.

George Greene

President/CEO

Hospital Association of Southern California

Taylor Hathaway-Zepeda

Corporate Attorney

Gibson Dunn

Augustavia Haydel

General Counsel

L.A. Care Health Plan

Steven Hennessey

CEO

Pacific Maritime Association

Brian Hernandez

Vice President, LA Business Banking

Market Leader

U.S. Bank

Marty Hodgett

Office Managing

Director, Southern California Health and Public Service, West

Accenture

Allan H. Holzer

Senior Manager

Ernst & Young, LLP

Maria Pilar Hoye

Partner

Latham & Watkins LLP

Tom Hsieh

President and CEO

AC Martin Partners

Scott Hunter

Principal

HKS Architects

Phong Huynh

Principal - Government - Customer & Marketing

Deloitte LLP

Vincent Iacopella

EVP, Growth and Strategy-Alba Group

Alba Wheels Up International

Fran Inman

SVP, Corporate Development

Majestic Realty Co.

Trini Jimenez

Vice President, Public Affairs

Watson Land Company

Berenecea Johnson Eanes

President

California State University, Los Angeles

Cynthia H. Jordan

President Southern California Market

Comerica Bank

Ray Juman

Managing Director |

Market Executive

Wells Fargo

Ayla Kalani

President, LA & Central Coast Region, Wealth Management

Northern Trust

Jim (Dimitri) Kales

CEO

Braille Institute of America’s

Kevin Keane

Chief Operating Officer

Directed Action, Inc.

Darren Kettle

Chief Executive Officer

Southern California Regional Rail Authority (Metrolink)

Joone Kim-Lopez

General Manager

Moulton Niguel Water District

John Kiralla

Senior Vice President, Marketing, Communications, and External Relations

Loyola Marymount University

Bonny Kirin-Perez

Director of Operations

The Westin Bonaventure

Travis Kiyota

Senior Vice President, Head of Global Corp. Affairs

East West Bank

Kevin Klowden

Executive Director, California Center and Managing Economist

Milken Institute

John Laco

Partner

O’Melveny & Myers LLP

Deane Leavenworth

President

Leavenworth Endeavors

Hee-Won Lim

Vice President &

General Manager

Pacific Palms Conference Resort

Paul Little

President, Chief

Executive Officer

Pasadena Chamber of Commerce

Michael Lizarraga

President & CEO

TELACU

Mark Louchheim

Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Bobrick Washroom Equipment, Incorporated

Robert Lowe

Chairman & CEO

LOWE

Constantine Marantidis

Partner

Womble Bond Dickerson (US) LLP

Gregory McWilliams

President

FivePoint

Ali Mir

SVP, Southern California Transportation

WSP USA

Patrick Monroe

President and CEO

Rose Hills Los Angeles

Jerold Neuman

Partner

DLA Piper LLP (USA)

Deana Ng

Vice President, Chief Risk & Compliance Officer

Southern California Gas Company, A Sempra Energy utility

Steve Nissen

President and CEO

Hollywood Chamber of Commerce

Whitney O’Neill Englander

Senior Director, Government Affairs

Charter Communications

Michael Ochoa

Chief Executive Officer

Transcend Health, LLC

Gerard Orozco

Senior Vice President

JACOBS

Adán Ortega

Board Chair

Metropolitan Water District of Southern California

Andy Park*

Office Managing Partner

Ernst & Young, LLP

Lisa Pitney

Vice President, Government Relations

The Walt Disney Company

George Pla*

Chief Executive Officer

Cordoba Corporation

Karla Pleitez Howelll

Executive Director

First 5 LA

Jennifer Poulakidas

Government & Community Relations

University of California, Los Angeles

Thomas Priselac

President & CEO

Cedars-Sinai Health System

Janisse Quiñones

CEO & General Manager Los Angeles Department of Water & Power

Carlos Ramos

Senior Vice-President, Market Manager

Banc of California

Lourdes Ramos-Rivas

President & Chief Executive Officer

Museum of Latin American Art

Philip Recht

Partner

Mayer Brown LLP

Dennis Rodriguez

Vice President of California Growth Markets

Parsons

Alberto Roman

Interim Chancellor

Los Angeles Community College District

Jesús Román

State and Local Government Affairs

Verizon

Stephen Roseberry

President & Chief Marketing Officer

Kathy Ireland Worldwide

Alan Rothenberg

Chairman & CEO

1st Century Bank

Ali Sahabi

Chief Operating Officer/ Principal

Optimum Seismic Inc.

Juan Salazar

Director of Local Policy & Community Engagement

Meta

Maria S. Salinas

President & CEO

Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce

Frank Sanchez

McDonald’s Licensee

Sanchez Family Corporation dba McDonald’s

Ricky Sanchez

Director of Marketing & Programming

Los Angeles Athletic Club

Lupita Sanchez Cornejo

External Affairs

AT&T

Everett Sands

Chief Executive Officer

Lendistry

Martha Saucedo

Executive Vice President, Community Affairs

AEG

Jeff Sauls

Government and Industry Affairs

Farmers Insurance Group of Companies

Emma Schafer

Director

Los Angeles Current Affairs Forum

Eugene Seroka

Executive Director

Port of Los Angeles

Kelly Shupe

California Division Director, Business Banking

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

Nicole Simonian

Partner

Crowell & Moring, LLP

Renata Simril

President

LA84 Foundation

Rose Sorensen

Partner

Snell & Wilmer LLP

Brissa Sotelo-Vargas

Director, Community Relations & Government Affairs

Valero Energy Corporation

A.G. Spanos*

President Business Operations

Los Angeles Chargers

Phillip Tate

SVP, Development & Government Affairs

Kilroy Realty Corporation

Gerald Thomas

Chief Operating Officer

American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles

Francisco Uribe

Director, State, Local and International Government Relations

The Home Depot

Pep Valdes

Executive Vice President Parking Company of America

Dulce Vasquez

Asst. Vice President

Arizona State University

Alejandra Velazquez

Government Relations

DoorDash

Hrishika Vuppala

Senior Partner

McKinsey & Company, Inc.

Stuart Waldman

President

Valley Industry & Commerce Association

Linton White

Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer for Southern California and Hawai’i Markets

Kaiser Permanente

Stephanie Wiggins

Chief Executive Officer

Metro

Jeffrey Wilson

Manager, Corp Affairs

Chevron Corporation

Todd Wilson

Regional President

PNC Bank

Brandon Young

Partner

Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP

Ellen Zaman

Associate Vice President, Government and Industry Relations

Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

Gillian Zucker

CEO

Halo Sports & Entertainment

President of Business Operations

LA Clippers

THE CHAMBER’S FOCUS

PUBLIC POLICY & ADVOCACY

Leading through policy advocacy. The L.A. Area Chamber engages with civic leaders and legislators on behalf of the business community. Our efforts help ensure economic prosperity and equity to improve opportunities for the region.

Goal: Be a bold advocate for business as a driver of a strong economy that enables prosperity for all.

Initiatives:

• Foster policies that encourage and enable businesses

to locate, expand and thrive in the region.

• Promote policies that assist and accelerate the

personal development of entrepreneurship and career

readiness in the region.

• Advance economic mobility and successful

communities

• Invest in leadership that promotes economic vitality

GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT

The Greater Los Angeles region, including the counties of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura, is one of the most vibrant economies in the world. The region’s ports, airports, world-class education institutions, and industrial base continues to be a powerful magnet for international business transactions and investors. The region is a key trade gateway between the United States and global markets with over $400 billion in yearly exports and imports.

Goal: Advance Los Angeles’ role as a powerful and dynamic region integral to the global economy.

Initiatives:

• Champion investment - foreign and domestic - in

innovation, trade and infrastructure that enables regional

businesses to succeed in the global economy.

• Foster international connections that support economic

growth in the region.

• Advance economic mobility and successful

communities.

• Ensure that actions, programs and convenings have a

global perspective.

COMMUNITY COLLABORATION FOR LOCAL & REGIONAL ECONOMIC GROWTH & MOBILITY

The Chamber’s small business programs ensure the L.A. region is a desirable place to conduct business and an affordable place to live, work, and learn. We promote and support emerging industries, small businesses, and entrepreneurs.

Our efforts promote investments in infrastructure and connectivity which drive the regional economy, as well as support the geographically diverse composition of the economy. From startup companies, to microentrepreneurs, to rapidly expanding businesses, we assist small business owners and their employees through a variety of business and professional development programs.

Goal: Advance and support efforts that eliminate barriers and maximize opportunities for economic prosperity.

Initiatives:

• Deliver programming that provides economic mobility

for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and the next

generation workforce.

• Create a pathway to contract opportunities for local,

small and diverse businesses through our procurement

programing.

• Provide technical assistance and capacity building

training to assist small businesses to help increase

sales, provide access to capital, expand into new

markets, and position organizations for long-term growth.

BALANCE CALIFORNIA AND THE CEO COUNCIL

With the California economy at a unique crossroads, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce formed The CEO Council, an advisory group of top business leaders dedicated to bringing balance back to the state’s public policies, encourage the economy and promote a robust business climate.

The CEO Council will focus on two crucial areas, ensuring affordable housing for middle-income families and building a workforce which is prepared for the good-paying jobs of the future.

More than one hundred regional CEOs and senior level executives representing the diversity of industries in the Los Angeles region have joined the advisory council and are committed to promoting and engaging in Balance California, an initiative launched by the L.A. Area Chamber to unify business leadership and advance discussions as well as policies which ensure our region remains globally competitive.

INDUSTRY & POLICY COUNCILS

PUBLIC POLICY AND INDUSTRY COUNCILS

In today’s economic and political environment, it is important to be informed about the issues affecting your business. The Chamber has several industry and policy focused councils which provide recommendations to the Chamber’s leadership on important regional and industry issues. These councils meet on a regular basis and are open to all members.

Transportation & Goods Movement:

The Transportation & Goods Movement Policy Council addresses issues related to our region’s mobility — highway, rail, air, shipping, transit, cycling, walking, roads, and arterials. The Council advocates for federal, state, and local policies and programs that provide system-wide regional solutions. They emphasize the importance of transportation and goods movement to the region and nation’s economy while encouraging balanced approaches to improving environmental sustainability.

Innovation & Technology:
The Innovation & Technology Policy Council supports policies and programs that utilize modern practices and technology – especially crucial in the post COVID-19 landscape. The council works to promote broadband access, foster innovation and creativity to make L.A. a more desirable place for technology companies and entrepreneurs to locate and grow their businesses, increase the supply of technically skilled workers and entrepreneurs, and lead to a more transparent, accessible, and efficient government.

Energy, Water, & Environmental Sustainability:
The Energy, Water, & Environmental Sustainability Policy Council focuses on advancing cost-effective policies and programs that ensure reliable and affordable water and energy delivery, improve air quality, promote economic growth, and address climate change in Los Angeles through the local development of technologies, businesses, and jobs.

Government & Fiscal Affairs:
The Government & Fiscal Affairs Policy Council serves as the Chamber’s primary committee to evaluate legislation and policies that broadly affect the business community and civic life, including taxes, regulations, and government reforms.

Health Care:
The Heath Care Council monitors proposed reforms to the nation’s health care system and advocates for health care policies that increase affordability, protect access to coverage and quality care, and create health professional workforce opportunities, all of which contribute to a healthy workforce while avoiding burdensome and health cost increasing regulations.

Land Use, Construction, & Housing:

The Land Use, Construction, & Housing Policy Council of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce supports the adoption and implementation of planning policies that incorporate smart growth tools, drive economic growth, improve environmental sustainability, and enhance the connectedness and quality of life of our region.

Education & Workforce Development:
The Education & Workforce Development Policy Council is committed to ensuring the development of a 21st century workforce capable of competing in a global economy with an emphasis on expanding opportunities for at-risk and underserved populations.

Los Angeles Reginal Export Council (LARExC)
To facilitate collaboration and coordination among the greater Los Angeles and five-county region’s international trade institutions, government agencies, economic development offices, and service providers; to sustain broad-based and inclusive economic growth and job creation in the region by promoting the growth of exports by local firms, particularly small and medium-sized firms; and to strengthen, support and expand existing services and programs that are responsive to regional exporter needs.

Travel, Tourism & Sports

The Travel, Tourism, and Sports Council bring together influential stakeholders to collaborate on initiatives that support the tourism industry in Los Angeles. The Council’s mission is to advance Los Angeles’ role as a powerful and dynamic region integral to the global economy.

BUSINESS COUNCILS

Small Business:
The Small Business Council meets regularly to discuss common issues, share best practices, exchange information, increase understanding, and discover innovative solutions to today’s business challenges.

Global Initiatives:
The Global Initiatives Council aims to foster the development of and access to international markets by local companies and work to maximize the region’s diverse resources to increase opportunities in the global economy.

WHAT OUR MEMBERS SAY

Charlene Dimas-Peinado, LCSW, president and CEO of Wellnest (www.wellnestla.org), a provider of emotional health and wellness services, shares there were a number of reasons prompting her joining the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce in 2018.

“I recognized the immense value of being part of a network dedicated to economic growth, advocacy, and cross-industry collaboration,” Dimas-Peinado says, adding that her work also gave her additional insight about the Chamber’s influence. “I understood the Chamber’s critical role in shaping policies that impact both businesses and nonprofits, particularly in key areas such as mental health, housing, and workforce development.”

Dimas-Peinado says one of the most rewarding aspects of Chamber membership has been engaging with professionals who are committed to making a difference in their industries and communities.

“The Chamber’s role in policy advocacy, economic forecasting, and cross-sector partnerships has been particularly impactful, equipping both businesses and nonprofits with the insights needed to navigate emerging trends and drive strategic decision-making.”

“For any leader — whether in business, nonprofits, or government — the Chamber is an essential resource,” Dimas-Peinado adds. “It offers visibility, access to key decision-makers, and opportunities for professional and personal growth. If you want to expand your influence, advocate for meaningful change, and be part of a community that drives impact, joining the Chamber is an investment in both your success and the success of our broader community.”

Andy Park, office managing partner of accounting firm Ernst & Young LLP (EY Los Angeles) (www.linkedin.com/in/andyparkey), has been a member of the L.A. Area Chamber’s Board of Directors since 2021. He shares his motivation for joining the Board was to work alongside talented leaders to make the community even stronger.

“I’m now serving as first vice chair, and it’s an incredibly rewarding experience,” he shares. “The connections are what make membership so beneficial. I’ve met many great friends through the chamber, and we’ve worked together on meaningful projects for our city. We make each other stronger citizens and leaders, and we’re constantly learning more about each other’s industries. These relationships also help me identify valuable opportunities for my colleagues, whether that’s a volunteer or Board role in our community, or a new connection with a fellow Angeleno.”

Christina Moses, owner of web design/development and marketing firm 3shades design (https://threeshades.com), shares that the decision to become a member of the L.A. Area Chamber was the result of its long-standing impact on the business community and dedication to shaping the future economy.

“For years, the Chamber has been a driving force in fostering economic growth, advocating for pro-business policies, and providing invaluable resources for companies of all sizes,” she says. “Its commitment to innovation, workforce development, and inclusive economic opportunities makes it an essential partner for businesses looking to thrive in a rapidly evolving market.”

Moses adds that one of the most beneficial aspects of being a member of the L.A. Area Chamber is its unwavering commitment to supporting small businesses through initiatives like the OneLA program. “This program, in particular, has been instrumental in helping small businesses like 3shades design become contract-ready, opening doors to new opportunities in the public sector,” she says. “Thanks to the resources, mentorship, and connections provided by the Chamber, we’ve successfully secured government contracts at both the city and state levels — an achievement that has significantly contributed to our growth.”

“Whether you’re looking to expand, gain access to new markets, or simply be part of a forward-thinking business community, the L.A. Area Chamber is an invaluable resource.”

YEARLY EVENTS

The Chamber’s Signature Events are amongst the region’s most prominent gatherings, convening the leading voices on issues of importance to the Los Angeles regional economy. These large-scale events attract speakers at the top of their industries and attendees represent the business and civic leadership community in the region.

Inaugural marks the installation of the incoming Chair of the Board. The event also recognizes extraordinary community leadership with three awards: the Civic Medal of Honor, Distinguished Business Leader, and Corporate Leadership. From top local and statewide leaders to the best in regional entertainment, the event is a dynamic, fun-filled evening.

ACCESS D.C. ensures the region has a seat at the table in the national policy dialogue by leading a coalition of business and civic organizations in developing an advocacy agenda to share with policymakers in Washington. The two-day program includes a series of keynote addresses and opportunities to meet with members of Congress, the Senate and the President’s administration to actively engage in advocacy.

Since 1926, World Trade Week Southern California (WTW) has dedicated itself to educating the public on the importance and benefits of global trade on the local and national economy through a series of education programs and events. World trade is celebrated throughout the month of May, beginning with the Chamber’s launch event, which features keynote speakers and sessions addressing the significant impact of global trade in driving economic growth and recovery.

The State of L.A. Business convenes the business, policy, and education sectors to discuss and share their insights on the regional economy. The program explores challenges and opportunities, leading and emerging industries, and the importance of collaboration between the private and public sectors in ensuring a thriving regional economy.

The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce is a champion and advocate for the region’s small business community, which fuels L.A. and helps shape every sector of our economy. To celebrate small business, we have a small business summit, which features engaging panel discussions and presentations and networking opportunities.

The Chamber’s annual Board Retreat provides an opportunity to hear from leaders in key sectors and a report from the Chamber to report on ongoing work that fulfills the Chamber’s mission and vision for the year.

The Chamber’s Education Summit gathers key decision makers including educational institutions, elected officials and business leaders ready to make positive changes to better align education with workforce needs.

The Chamber’s Holiday V.I.P. Reception is an executive-level networking event and offers an opportunity to celebrate the Chamber’s work and our partners’ support. The event is by invitation only and is an exclusive benefit for the Board of Governors, Investment level members, and guests.

For more information regarding the Chamber’s signature events, visit www.lachamber.com/pages/la-chamber-signature-events.

The L.A. Area Chamber hosts several signature events which engage the region and across multiple industry sectors. The events include:

• Inaugural

• ACCESS D.C.

• World Trade Week

• State of Infrastructure

• State of L.A. Business

• Small Business Summit

• Board Retreat

• Education Summit

• Holiday VIP

Creating the Workforce of the Future

By Matt Beardmore

The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce understands the challenges companies across the region face when trying to hire qualified, trained employees, so it is committed to developing close ties between business executives and leaders from academic institutions to help build “the workforce of the future.”

Buoyed by a $1 million grant from the Los Angeles-based Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation last year, the chamber is moving toward its goal of creating “a paradigm shift for how businesses in Los Angeles train, recruit and retain new hires from the local community in partnership with academic institutions in the region.”

As a leading advocate of developing “a 21st century workforce capable of competing in a global economy,” the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce has prioritized building connections between business and academic leaders to help develop a talent pipeline.

“If we can engage the business community at the highest level such as the CEO or others at the decision-maker level and connect them with university presidents or chancellors, they could collaborate to identify workforce needs and build relationships to hire into those industries,” said Maria S. Salinas, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce.

In its grant proposal to the Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation, the Chamber said its intent with this workforce pilot would be to “deepen the relationship between business and academia” with the goal being to hire “100,000 local, diverse youth into local Los Angeles-based private sector jobs over the next five years.”

With funding now secured, and the chamber’s CEO Council, “an advisory group of top business leaders and regional partners,” providing oversight, data is being gathered from a pilot.

“We are excited to be working with Cedars-Sinai Health System, Kaiser Permanente, and other major employers and going through the process of identifying the skill sets and kinds of partnerships we need,” Salinas said. “We’re also looking if we build these partnerships and deepen the relationship between business and academia, will we realize the benefit of jobs and there being folks who are well-prepared for quality jobs.”

The goal in the coming months is to gather additional data as this workforce pipeline pilot expands to three additional sectors.

Please visit the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce’s website at https://lachamber.com for additional details on its workforce development efforts.

Fund Offers Relief for Wildfire-Impacted Small Businesses

Small businesses impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires can seek assistance through the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce’s new Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund.

The Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund, established in January 2025 under the Chamber Foundation, is dedicated to assisting local small businesses as they navigate the challenges of recovery and rebuilding.

Through this fund, the Chamber provides:

• Grants up to $25,000 to directly support affected

small businesses.

• Financial resources in collaboration with CDFI partners

to ensure comprehensive financial aid.

• Disaster recovery webinars to equip business owners

with essential recovery strategies and resources.

• Business advising support to guide businesses through

rebuilding and resiliency efforts.

The fund received its initial donation of $500,000 from Bank of America, and additional donations of $250,000 from Ring and Chevron.

The Chamber has a long-standing history of convening business leaders, communities, and policy makers to promote a vibrant economy. The L.A. Area Chamber also received advice from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to establish the grant administration process, ensuring efficient and transparent distribution of funds. This initiative aligns closely with many of the Chamber’s existing small business programs, now strategically focused on disaster recovery.

“Small businesses are the backbone of the Los Angeles regional economy, the impact of the wildfires to the “main streets” of communities will be hard felt. Bank of America, Ring and Chevron’s support empowers us to provide immediate relief and long-term recovery for businesses struggling in the aftermath of the wildfires,” said Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. “ We are grateful for the partnership of these bold organizations in strengthening our community. These generous donations are a testament to their commitment to our community’s small businesses. Together, we can provide the resources and support urgently needed to help small businesses, rebuild, recover and thrive.”

For more information about the Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund and how to apply for assistance, please visit lachamber.com, or to support the Chamber’s efforts visit: https://shorturl.at/BRbOk.

A Vision for Recovery and Growth and the Promise of the Olympics

By Matt Beardmore

The world watched closely earlier this year when the Eaton and Palisades Fires – two of the most destructive wildfires in California history – ravaged more than 37,000 acres in Los Angeles County, destroyed a combined 16,000 structures, and led to 29 fire-related deaths.

With the recovery and rebuilding efforts under way, the people in Los Angeles do so knowing that the world will continue to keep a close eye on the region as the city is preparing to host a number of high-profile sporting events during the next three years – most notably the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics.

Representing the interests of the business community in a region that includes Ventura, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce has developed a Vision for 2028 based on four pillars to not only help the city prepare for the arrival of these global sporting events, but to aid in the region’s recovery and growth in the years that follow.

Before the Eaton and Palisades Fires were even fully contained, concerns arose about whether Los Angeles had the capacity to rebuild so much housing and infrastructure – and recover from economic losses estimated to be more than $250 billion – while also preparing to host a number of marquee events over the next three years. Such events include the N.B.A. All-Star Game, the U.S. Women’s Open golf tournament, the FIFA World Cup in 2026, Super Bowl LXI in 2027, and a world-wide spectacle Angelenos have eagerly been waiting for since the city was awarded the event eight years ago: the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics.

Maria S. Salinas, Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, is quick to defend her hometown’s ability to not only rebuild and recover, but also serve as the host of the world’s biggest sporting event in three years.

“Angelenos are resilient. L.A. will be able to handle this,” she said. “The recovery effort will be an added component we’ll have to deal with, but no one is wavering. L.A. is excitedly preparing to welcome the world.”

Los Angeles officials understand the city has a tough act to follow as Paris, host of the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, has widely been praised for delivering a near flawless event. Last summer the world witnessed an Opening Ceremony unlike any other and watched as “the most iconic landmarks in the City of Lights” were transformed into sporting arenas “the likes the world has never seen before.”

“We’re not going to have volleyball under the Eiffel Tower or have equestrian activities at the Palace of Versailles, but there’s a different dimension that L.A. brings that is just as powerful,” said Salinas, who was part of L.A. Mayor Karen Bass’ delegation to Paris last summer.

Los Angeles is now presented with an amazing opportunity – 44 years after it last hosted the Summer Games – to showcase its unique character and diversity while organizers plan on delivering “the world’s first Games to build no new permanent venues – maintaining a focus on people first to create a lasting human legacy.”

For Angelenos, the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics mean far more than gold medals and athletes capturing the world’s attention for four weeks – the Games, according to an Oct. 8, 2024, article Salinas penned in C-Suite Quarterly, are a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” for the Los Angeles business community.

“With the official countdown already underway, the potential economic windfall from the Games is expected to be monumental,” she wrote. “From job creation to infrastructure development and an anticipated surge in tourism, the 2028 Games present unparalleled opportunities for businesses across our region. As president and CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, I am committed to ensuring that all businesses, particularly small and minority-owned enterprises, have access to these opportunities. It’s crucial that we all take proactive steps to prepare for this historic event.”

In 2023, the Chamber launched the “Get in the Game” initiative, which was created to “help local small and diverse businesses take advantage of over $150 billion slated to flow throughout L.A.’s regional procurement economy in anticipation of Los Angeles hosting global sporting events,” the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce has been leading with partners from throughout the region. The goal of this initiative is to ensure that the regional chamber, which represents the counties of Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, San Bernardino, and Riverside, is well-positioned to help Los Angeles and its diverse business community prepare for the ’28 Games and continue benefiting long after the Olympic flame is extinguished.

“Vision28 is really about bringing the chamber into the community and into our region as it prepares not only the 2028 Olympics but for 2028 and beyond,” Salinas said. “We believe that by helping prepare the region under this Vision28 that we will then be able to deliver on our mission and vision which is to design and advance opportunities and solutions for a thriving regional economy that is inclusive and globally competitive.”

Vision28 was built on four main pillars:

1) Insights and Influence: “This is what we need to

do today to make sure we have the right public policy

in place,” Salinas said. This pillar is focused on ensuring

that the business community and government are

aligned and that barriers to investment and progress are

addressed or removed.

2) Global Collaboration: To help overcome the challenges

that exist because of the size of the region – Los

Angeles County covers 4,084 square miles – and to

combat Los Angeles not being a “walking city,” the

focus of this pillar is to make the city more accessible

and drive more visitors to cultural locations and

businesses that are “often tucked in pockets and

spread throughout the region.” The Chamber’s

strategies to achieve this goal include activating local

organizations and businesses to drive international

visitors to establishments outside of downtown L.A.

and working with city agencies like Metro to incentivize

the use of public transit to locations of interest.

3) Technology, Innovation, and Infrastructure: “This is

the hard systems that need to be in place to ensure

that we can deliver these global events,” Salinas said.

“We need transportation systems, and we need

to make sure that the roads and bridges and all that

infrastructure is working.”

4) Community Activation: The goal is to ensure

communities are connected with the planning

processes leading up to LA28 and that communities

are understanding the potential long-term economic

benefits that can result from the Games. “We want to

make sure that every aspect of how we define

community is engaged,” Salinas said. “Whether they’re

small businesses, youth centers, community centers,

or museums, we want to make sure they are all

included in the promise of the Olympics.”

To ensure the region’s voice is heard by federal lawmakers, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, along with an “influential business delegation from Southern California,” made its annual ACCESS trip to Washington D.C. in March. This year’s 3-day advocacy trip was an opportunity to “advocate for initiatives that strengthen our economy, workforce, and global competitiveness” – this year’s focus was stimulating economic growth and the workforce of the future, preparing for global sporting events, and rebuilding Los Angeles following the devastating wildfires.

In addition to urging Congress and the Trump Administration “to support rapid relief measures including streamlining permitting processes, providing low-interest loans, and offering financial assistance to support the rebuilding of neighborhoods and small businesses to stimulate economic growth” following the Eaton and Palisades wildfires, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce has launched a Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund to provide “financial relief and technical resources to those in need.”

For additional detail on the Small Business Recovery Fund and how to donate, please visit https://lachamber.com/resources/small-business-disaster-recovery-fund/.

Regional Economy

Within its 2025 economic forecast report: “Rebuilding, Recovering and Increasing Resilience in Los Angeles County,” the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) highlighted the impact of the Los Angeles wildfires on the local economy and a projection of the opportunities and challenges to problem-solve to bolster the economy.

After 3.4% GDP growth in 2024, L.A. is projected to experience a slowdown, while not contraction in 2025, with 2.1% GDP growth. The labor market impact is projected to be a 6.1% unemployment rate with a positive but slow job growth rate of 0.7%.

In a time of L.A. County’s recovery from the January 2025 fires, it will be important to continue to drive recovery, strengthen business, and unblock barriers. Key drivers of L.A. County’s job growth are projected to be education, healthcare, and leisure & hospitality, and major events such as FIFA and the 2028 Olympics continue to drive infrastructure investment and business opportunities in the region.

The economy would benefit greatly from accelerating housing development, supporting small and medium-sized businesses, investing in infrastructure, expanding workforce development programming, and strengthening climate resilience.

These insights reflected in the LAEDC 2025 Economic Forecast were shared at an event at the East Los Angeles College on February 26, where more than 400 leaders from business, research, and economic development engaged in discussion on strengthening the economy as part of recovery from the L.A. fires for all of L.A..

Additional economic insights from the report can be accessed online at https://laedc.org/laedc-releases-2025-economic-forecast-report.

Get in the Game, Other Chamber Initiatives Lead Small Business

By Marc Sheforgen

Small businesses’ drive Los Angeles’ economy, as 93% of all businesses in the region have fewer than 19 employees. Now, with $150 billion in procurement opportunities tied to upcoming global sporting events coming to L.A. — including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 2027 Super Bowl and 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games — the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce is working to ensure that local entrepreneurs don’t just watch from the sidelines.

Through its Get in the Game initiative and ongoing support provided by its Small Business Council, the Chamber is equipping small and diverse businesses with the resources they need to compete for contracts linked to these major events.

“Government procurement is complicated,” Peter Foo, the Chamber’s Vice President of Entrepreneurship and Innovation said about accessing contracts. “Get in the Game helps these businesses to strategize, to put together their proposals, to put together a budget. We’re providing training so they can go after these opportunities.”

The Chamber’s Small Business Council also provides ongoing support for small businesses. Co-Chair Kevin Keane shared the importance of not just positioning local businesses to capitalize on current opportunities but bolstering them for sustained success long after the high-profile events leave town.

“The goal is to create a process where we take advantage of what’s coming up and use that to build for going forward,” Keane said. “This is our community. Small business is Los Angeles.”

With a projected $150 billion worth of contracts associated with these events, spanning everything from small supplies to large construction, there is massive opportunity, but only if businesses are positioned to take advantage.

“Once a small business gets awarded a contract, it can be transformational,” Foo said. “We want to give them the opportunity to get a piece of that pie.”

Together for LA: Supporting Small Businesses in the Wake of Wildfires Disaster

By Marc Sheforgen

When disasters strike, recovery is never simple. The 2025 L.A. Wildfires devastated communities, forcing businesses to close, displacing employees and creating long-term economic challenges. While personal recovery efforts take center stage, small businesses — the backbone of Los Angeles — also face steep hurdles in rebuilding.

Together for L.A., a public-private collaboration founded in 2020 at the height of the COVID pandemic led by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and several other local entities, mobilized quickly to provide small businesses with critical relief and recovery support.

“It’s the same cross-sector entities that came together to provide small business support during the COVID disaster,” said Veronica Pugin, Vice President of LAEDC’s Business Team. “That infrastructure is why Together for L.A. was able to respond very quickly for the wildfire support.”

Immediate Action and Ongoing Support

Within 48 hours of the wildfires, Together for L.A. launched a coordinated response to assist small businesses. By January 17, the coalition had released its first online resource session, providing critical information on insurance claims, permitting, disaster loans, financial recovery options and more.

To date, there have been nearly 500 registered attendees for Together for L.A.’s weekly programming, where they gain expert guidance on securing grants, navigating local and federal aid and rebuilding stronger. The initiative’s online recovery hub, hosted by LAEDC, serves as a one-stop shop for businesses seeking up-to-date emergency resources.

“The way we’re thinking of small business support is relief and recovery,” Pugin said. “Relief is the immediate response in the weeks after a natural disaster, while recovery requires sustained effort and long-term planning.”

Helping Small Businesses Rebuild

Small businesses fuel the local economy and contribute to the region’s economic health. LAEDC has already provided direct assistance to more than 1,000 businesses, helping them access financial aid and business continuity planning resources, and the Together for L.A. group has reached thousands more.

“We saw during COVID that coordination becomes more challenging in a crisis,” Pugin said. “LAEDC’s role is to provide tools that support the stakeholders to be as effective as possible.”

From securing low-interest SBA disaster loans to providing expert guidance on financial aid and business continuity, Together for L.A. continues to connect entrepreneurs with real, actionable solutions.

A Resilient Future for L.A. Businesses

Disasters are becoming more frequent, including climate-related disruptions and cyber threats. Together for L.A. isn’t just focused on recovery, it’s preparing for what’s next.

“Unfortunately, there will be another disaster,” Pugin acknowledged. “The key is being ready to respond swiftly and effectively.”

Together for L.A. is more than a recovery program—it’s a model for resilience, bringing businesses, government agencies and community leaders together to move beyond discussion and into action.

“A crisis is devastating, but it also presents an opportunity for us to step up for each other,” Pugin said. “We want to build on that together.”

For more Together for L.A. information, visit

www.laedc.org/togetherforla.