For Immediate Release
May 9, 2024
Economic Development Contact: Jennifer Coronado
Email: JCoronado@GlendaleCA.gov
Phone: (818) 548-2005
City Media Contact: Stephanie Mkhlian
Email: SMkhlian@GlendaleCA.gov
Phone: (818) 548-4424
Hundreds of Small Business Leaders Gain Knowledge and Connections at 2nd Annual “Let’s Grow Glendale!” Summit
Glendale, CA – Glendale's Small Business Summit, 'Let’s Grow Glendale!', was a roaring success for the second year in a row, doubling attendance to nearly 400! This event showcased our city's unwavering support for small businesses, paving the way for even greater success in the future. Additionally, the event played a central role in Glendale’s celebration of National Small Business Week, held from April 28 through May 4.
“Small business owners and their investment in our city is critical to the local economy. That is why we have committed to this event and to creating an entire network of support for local business owners, including women and minority-owned businesses. Thank you to all our partners including but not limited to SBA, SBDC and Supervisor Kathryn Barger. The energy and enthusiasm created by this summit only proves how important it is for our city leadership to do its part to help local entrepreneurs thrive in Glendale,” said Glendale Mayor Elen Asatryan.
The Mayor introduced one of the summit’s opening guest speakers Small Business Administration (SBA) Regional Administrator Elmy Bermejo who has established a successful record of collaboration with public and private stakeholders on a vast range of issues including women’s leadership, workforce development, disaster relief, and small business. In November 2021, President Biden appointed Bermejo as the Regional Administrator at SBA Region IX. The city of Glendale created the Small Business Summit in partnership with SBA and the LA Small Business Development Center (SBDC).
Some event highlights included breakout sessions covering a variety of topics from insights on how to fund business growth, creating a strong business plan, how to get certified to do business with public agencies, improving cash flow, and so much more.
“We had a great roster of speakers who shared their knowledge with our attendees. There is huge value to bringing all this content together in a convenient one-day event. I look forward to next year’s event and doing our part to grow and support our small business community,” said Glendale Director of Community Development Bradley Calvert.
Another important aspect of the summit was the closing celebration event which provided time for attendees to network and meet with the event exhibitors.
“I can’t say enough about the companies and leaders that joined us to make this 2nd annual event such a success. We appreciate their support and time to share their expertise. Their contribution made a huge difference in our success again this year,” shared Glendale Deputy Director of Economic Development, Soua Vang.
‘Let’s Grow Glendale!’ Small Business Summit sponsors included: Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Glendale Community College Professional Development Center (PDC), California Solar Group, GotPrint.com, Embassy Suites Glendale, and the Glendale Galleria.
Summit exhibitors included: Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment (PACE), the City of Glendale Office of Sustainability, Robert Hall & Associates, BuildLACCD, Verdugo Jobs Center, California Employers Association, Athens Services, TMC Community Capital, Integrated Waste Management, Small Business Development Center LA(SBDC), The Valley Economic Alliance, California Office of the Small Business Advocate, Glendale Water and Power, Saltbox, U.S. Small Business Administration Veterans Business Outreach Centers, SC Virtual Business Center, Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity, and Chase Bank.
In addition to the Small Business Summit, the city’s ‘Let’s Grow Glendale’ campaign includes a series of webinars, held before and after the summit to provide an even deeper level of effective business strategies and access to experts. Upcoming webinars include:
- Mastering Financial Literacy: Unlocking the Secrets of Key Financial Statements and Effective Collection on June 4, 2024
- The Fine Art of Management: The Fundamentals to Increase Sales and Profitability on June 18, 2024
Previously recorded business webinar topics such as customer service, effective negotiation strategies, time management, and contract procurement tips can be accessed at YouTube.com/@ChooseGlendale
Summit attendees are asked to take a survey to win a $250 credit towards GotPrint.com. The survey can be found at SurveyMonkey.com/r/5686NXD.
To learn more about the City of Glendale business programs, visit ChooseGlendaleCA.com
About Glendale: Glendale is one of the largest cities in Los Angeles County, with a population of 200,000+. Glendale is a thriving cosmopolitan city that is rich in history, culturally diverse, and a bustling downtown that is home to many corporate headquarters and tech giants, two first-class regional shopping malls, and a walkable Arts & Entertainment District with endless fine dining opportunities. Visit ChooseGlendaleCA.com for more information about Economic Development in Glendale or connect on X, Instagram, and Facebook @ChooseGlendale.
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