A collaborative effort spearheaded by the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, LISC Los Angeles, the Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation (VSEDC), and Next Street has just been launched. This initiative aims to provide significant resources to empower small businesses in the Los Angeles region, better preparing LA to host major international sporting events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
To ensure these businesses can capitalize on the substantial economic opportunities on the horizon, DT Weekly is proud to share the Get in the Game LA Supplier Resource Hub, a comprehensive online platform with Los Angeles. www.getinthegamela.com
Big Money! Big Future!
The initiative aims to bridge the gap between local suppliers and the immense procurement needs of these upcoming events. The collective goal of the “Get in the Game” initiative is ambitious: to provide tailored support to over 1,000 small business suppliers, facilitate more than $10 million in financing, and connect small and diverse businesses to over $100 million in contracts by 2030.
“Small businesses are at the heart of Los Angeles County’s identity—and its future. As we prepare to welcome the world to our region, we have a responsibility to ensure that the businesses shaping our neighborhoods also help shape the global stage. Especially now, as our communities recover from devastating wildfires, our small businesses and their families need us more than ever,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “That’s why I’m so excited this Hub is launching now—to expand opportunities for local entrepreneurs, to elevate their talents, and to connect them to the energy the Olympics will bring to LA.”
Photos Courtesy: Devin Feil for Get in the Game LA
The “Get in the Game” initiative is designed to equip regional small businesses with essential tools, connections, and insights. The newly launched digital hub, powered by Next Street’s technology, acts as a central point of access for small businesses seeking to compete for large-scale procurement contracts.
Beyond the digital platform, the “Get in the Game” initiative employs a multi-faceted approach. For buyers, Procurement Innovation Forums will foster the sharing of best practices in supplier diversity and sourcing. To connect buyers and suppliers directly, Procurement Matchmaking events, including a fair on June 5th hosted by the LA Area Chamber of Commerce, will be organized.
Grants. Loans. And Money to Earn!
Supplier Finance solutions are being developed by Next Street, including an online capital marketplace to connect businesses with grants and loans, and the design of innovative financial products tailored to the needs of local suppliers.
“For more than four decades, VSEDC has been rooted in supporting South L.A. businesses, including identifying their needs and connecting them to resources,” said Quentin Strode, President and CEO of Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation. “The Get in the Game LA Supplier Resource Hub will be able to provide these customized resources to many more businesses, including procurement matchmaking between buyers and suppliers, a game changer for businesses looking to access real opportunities.”
Small businesses in the Los Angeles region are encouraged to visit the Get in the Game LA Supplier Resource Hub to create a free account. This will grant them access to a personalized dashboard featuring recommended resources, advisors, and courses aligned with their specific growth stage and procurement objectives. Additionally, local business support organizations are invited to contribute their resources to the hub by emailing GITG@nextstreet.com. www.getinthegamela.com
