Economic Development
Driving Generational Wealth and Local Prosperity
The Economic Development Division powers entrepreneurship, workforce advancement, and economic mobility. Through flagship initiatives like BE³, the HOPE Small Business Expo, and our Workforce Development programs, we offer training, mentorship, capital access, and business incubation. By championing local talent and building sustainable infrastructure for success, we cultivate a thriving economic ecosystem rooted in equity, innovation, and community ownership.
ProGrams & Featured Projects
Small Business Development Initiative
Strong communities are fueled by strong local businesses. Our Small Business Division exists to support entrepreneurs — from idea to expansion — by strengthening capacity, improving performance, and building long-term sustainability.
Through strategic programs, collaborative partnerships, and peer-based learning environments, we equip microenterprises, solopreneurs, and small businesses with the tools they need to grow, generate positive cash flow, and contribute to a thriving local economy.
When small businesses succeed, communities flourish.
The Small Business Expo is BE3's premier business incubation event, connecting entrepreneurs with customers, strategic partners, and resources that accelerate business growth and strengthen the local economy.
small business expo
Fueling Entrepreneurs: Turn Your Business Vision into Reality
If you have a business idea or are ready to grow your existing venture, don't miss the opportunity to apply for the LISC LA Fueling Entrepreneurs Business Pitch Competition, presented in partnership with BMO. Selected entrepreneurs will have the chance to compete for grant funding to help move their businesses forward
Upcoming Business Events
Our workshops, networking events, pitch competitions, and educational programs connect entrepreneurs with the knowledge, capital opportunities, strategic partnerships, and practical resources needed to launch, grow, and sustain successful businesses. Each event is designed to strengthen both individual enterprises and the local economy by fostering innovation, collaboration, and long-term business success.
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The BE3 Program
BE3 is our signature entrepreneurial development initiative designed to increase business capacity, improve performance, and position entrepreneurs for long-term sustainability and expansion — contributing to stronger local economies in the process.
WOrkforce Development Program
The Workforce Development Program equips individuals at every stage of their employment journey — including those who are unemployed, underemployed, or facing employment barriers — with the skills, training, and professional support needed to secure sustainable, well-paying careers. Through strategic partnerships with employers, nonprofits, and certification providers, Center of Hope CDC connects participants to high-demand career pathways and growth industries. This initiative emphasizes vocational training, job readiness, career advancement, and long-term employment success, positioning participants not only for job placement, but for upward mobility and lasting economic stability.
Featured project:
The Hope Professional COllective
The Hope Professional Collective is a growing network of professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders committed to excellence, purpose, and community impact. As a workforce initiative, the Collective creates space for professionals to connect, collaborate, and grow while integrating their values with their work.
Gardent to market
Garden to Market is our youth entrepreneurship initiative that equips students with agricultural, business, and leadership skills while cultivating pathways to economic opportunity, workforce readiness, and community impact.
