Fueling Emerging Entrepreneurs Program

Fueling Emerging Entrepreneurs Program is sponsored by Los Angeles County. This program provides grants and business development support to help small businesses in Los Angeles County grow and become more resilient.

Fueling Emerging Entrepreneurs: A New Opportunity for Small Business Growth in LA | LISC Los Angeles Fueling Emerging Entrepreneurs: A New Opportunity for Small Business Growth in LA LISC Stories Economic Development LISC LA is proud to announce the launch of Fueling Emerging Entrepreneurs (FEE)—a new grant initiative and virtual pitch competition designed to support small business owners working to grow, innovate, and strengthen their communities.

With generous support from BMO, this program offers more than just funding. It’s designed to build momentum for entrepreneurs through flexible-use grants, increased visibility, and access to technical assistance and coaching from trusted local partners. FEE is open to small businesses across Los Angeles County with annual revenues of $250,000 or less—including startups and micro-businesses with strong growth potential.

The program prioritizes entrepreneurs who have faced barriers to accessing capital and are committed to strengthening their communities through local hiring, services, or economic activity. Special consideration will be given to businesses located in Los Angeles, Long Beach, Inglewood, Santa Monica, Pasadena, Carson, Venice Beach, El Monte, Pomona, and Arcadia.

This year, eight $5,000 grants will be awarded to help small business owners take their next big step—whether that’s upgrading equipment, building out digital marketing, purchasing inventory, or preparing for new contracts. “The FEE Program is rooted in the idea that small business success is community success.

By investing in early-stage entrepreneurs—especially in historically disinvested areas—we’re helping build an economy where growth and opportunity reach every corner of Los Angeles,” said Nicole Williams, LISC LA’s Executive Director. “We’re deeply grateful to BMO for their partnership and commitment to making this vision a reality.

” This three-year initiative is part of BMO’s broader $575,000 donation to LISC LA, which also supports community-led affordable housing solutions through partnerships with faith-based organizations, community land trusts, and emerging developers. "At BMO, we believe that supporting small businesses boosts the vitality of our communities.

The Fueling Emerging Entrepreneurs program aligns well with our commitment to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life. We're incredibly proud to partner with LISC LA on this initiative, empowering businesses to innovate, expand, and ultimately strengthen the fabric of Los Angeles,” said Sandy Dunleavey, Regional President, Southern California, BMO.

Together, LISC LA and BMO are working to ensure that small business owners have the capital, coaching, and connections they need to thrive and that local economic development efforts reflect the diversity and talent of Los Angeles. Applications for Fueling Emerging Entrepreneurs are open now through July 3. To learn more and apply, please click here .