On February 8 in Council District 3, a Black Business Mixer was hosted at the Main Kitchen restaurant. At the event, more than 75 small business owners attended, eager to learn and connect with panel members and listen to stories of successful business owners.

Mayor Karen Bass, Councilmember Bob Blumenfield (CD3), and Councilmember John Lee (CD12) presented welcoming remarks.

To kick off the event, the audience heard small business success stories from Maya C. Entwistle, founder and CEO of Bubles Champagne, and Dr. Quinton Williams, founder of Chiropractor Elevated. Entwistle and Dr. Williams have businesses in the San Fernando Valley and are proof that small businesses can succeed and thrive. Both business owners shared with the crowd their passions, which ultimately led them to open a business, and offered advice to future business owners. Common themes shared between both entrepreneurs were the importance of making meaningful connections and getting a coach who can help guide business plans.

Following the discussion and insights from these business owners, the event proceeded to a conversation with Black panelists EWDD General Manager Carolyn Hull and Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department General Manager Capri Maddox. The panelists engaged in a discussion about the small business community in Los Angeles, with a focus on the experience of Black business owners. Hull touched on the importance of prioritizing small businesses and being intentional about supporting them. She reminded the crowd that EWDD’s BusinessSource Centers are a resource that continues to be available to small businesses. Maddox complemented the discussion and offered words of encouragement to attendees by telling guests, "keep up the fight and the faith in all that you."

This robust conversation successfully brought together the black business community in the San Fernando Valley and allowed attendees to network and share in conversation with like-minded people. Attendees walked away with new connections, insights, and inspiration to make their businesses grow and thrive.

EWDD’s BusinessSource Centers offer resources to microenterprises, small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs in the City of Los Angeles. These efforts work to revitalize the local economy by helping business owners launch viable businesses, grow revenue streams and stabilize to create jobs. Visit EWDD’s BusinessSource Centers and learn how EWDD's Business Services can help businesses of all sizes.