Small businesses, workers and communities will have an opportunity to prepare for economic opportunities tied to the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games through a Los Angeles County initiative. The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) announced the Path to 2028 initiative Wednesday, saying it provides free workshops and guidance on public contracting, vendor registration, business certifications, bid readiness, access to capital, and technical assistance.
“Only a few weeks ago, communities across Los Angeles County came together to celebrate soccer, culture and the people who make our region so vibrant,” Los Angeles County Board Chair Hilda Solis said in a statement. “Now, we are building on that momentum as we prepare for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Path to 2028 is not only about creating meaningful opportunities for local businesses and our economy, but also about expanding economic mobility and advancing inclusion across our communities.”
County officials said the initiative is intended to help local businesses, workers and communities benefit from the economic activity expected before, during and after the 2028 Games, particularly in industries such as tourism, hospitality, construction, transportation and the creative economy.
The program also supports LA28’s goals of directing 75 percent of spending to local businesses and 25 percent to small businesses by helping companies become certified, registered and contract-ready, officials said. “Path to 2028 represents our commitment to ensuring the Olympic and Paralympic Games provide the opportunity to uplift all Angelenos,” said Kelly LoBianco, director of DEO.
“We are not just preparing for a global event – we are building pathways to economic mobility, expanding opportunity, and investing in a more inclusive future for Los Angeles County.”
The first Path to 2028 event was held May 26 in partnership with the city of Pico Rivera. The next workshop is scheduled for Aug. 20 in Torrance, with additional events planned throughout Los Angeles County, officials said.
The department said it is also expanding workforce training and job-readiness programs, including Youth@Work and High Road Training Partnerships, to help residents prepare for jobs connected to the Games and the region’s long-term economy.
