Free Small Business Program · LA County
C.L.I.M.B.
To Economic Mobility
A free, hands-on business support program designed to help small business owners in Los Angeles County access capital, win contracts, grow their customer base, and scale — with a dedicated advisor by your side.
100% Free · No Cost to Participate
CClarifyIdentify the challenge that needs immediate focus
LLock InDefine the plan that strengthens your position
IImplementTailored training to execute critical actions
MMobilize1:1 guidance to convert actions into growth
BBuildSharpen your competitive edge in the marketplace
What You’ll Work On
4 Pathways to Market Access
Capital Readiness
- Financial review
- Funding strategy
- Loan & grant prep
Contracting & Certs
- LA County certification
- Compliance review
- Bid readiness
Consumer Access
- Brand visibility
- Customer acquisition
- Value proposition
Distribution (B2B)
- Wholesale strategy
- B2B channel planning
- Buyer outreach
Eligibility
Who Can Apply?
You Must:
- Operate within Los Angeles County
- Have an active business or intent to formalize
- Commit to hands-on consulting sessions
- Consent to participation
Ready to grow your business?
Apply today — it’s free.
A dedicated advisor guides you through every step.
Apply Now →laedc.org/access-services
Program FAQ
Your Questions, Answered.
About the Program
What is CLIMB?
A free, hands-on program that helps LA County small businesses access capital, contracts, customers, and new markets — with a dedicated advisor supporting real outcomes.
Who is it for?
- Early-stage or growing businesses
- Businesses seeking revenue growth or new markets
- Businesses needing help with operations, marketing, or compliance
Is there a cost?
No. The program is provided at no cost to eligible businesses.
Eligibility & Enrollment
Who is eligible?
- Located in Los Angeles County
- Currently operating or preparing to operate
- Willing to actively participate
How do I apply?
Complete the intake form at laedc.org/access-services. A business advisor will follow up and guide you through next steps.
What happens after I apply?
- Complete enrollment documentation
- Get assigned a dedicated business advisor
- Complete a diagnostic assessment
- Build your personalized action plan
Time & Participation
How much time does it take?
The program includes several hours of direct advisor support plus time for implementation. Your advisor will set a realistic pace with you.
What’s expected of me?
Attend sessions, complete agreed action steps, and stay engaged. Active participation is key to getting results.
Program Structure
What support will I receive?
- A dedicated business advisor
- A personalized action plan (“game plan”)
- Expert-led workshops
- Hands-on implementation support
What areas does it cover?
- Capital Access & Financial Readiness
- Procurement & Contracting
- Marketing & Customer Access
- Distribution & Market Expansion
Is this a class or consulting?
Both — workshops build your skills and advisors help you apply what you learn and get things done.
Can I get support in multiple areas?
Yes. Your advisor will determine the best sequence based on your business needs.
Close-Out & After
When is participation complete?
When your action plan has been worked through, deliverables completed or documented, and outcomes recorded by your advisor.
What if I don’t finish everything?
Your advisor will document your progress and may refer you to additional resources. Participation can still be formally closed out.
What happens after the program?
- Continue applying what you’ve built
- Get connected to additional resources
- Stay engaged through events & future programming
What You Could Achieve
💼 Capital-Ready
Financial documents prepared and a funding strategy in place — ready to apply for loans, grants, or equity.
📑 Contract-Ready
Registered to bid on public contracts with certifications submitted and proposal templates created.
📈 Market-Ready
A clear marketing strategy, customer pipeline, and relationships with buyers or distributors established.
Still have questions? Apply and your advisor will walk you through everything.
Apply at laedc.org/access-services →