Empowering Compton: Fostering Economic Growth, Cultural Innovation, and Community Engagement

Income inequality

South LA Long Beach Central LA Gateway Cities County of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a countywide benefit)

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

The issue we are addressing is the lack of economic opportunities, resources, and access to essential services for underserved communities in Compton and surrounding areas. Many local businesses, entrepreneurs, and youth face significant barriers to economic mobility, such as limited access to education, mentorship, funding, and professional networks. This disparity perpetuates cycles of poverty, underemployment, and a lack of pathways to careers in high-demand fields like tech and the creative economy. By expanding resources for local businesses, fostering entrepreneurial growth, and increasing access to educational and career opportunities, our project aims to empower individuals and families, reduce income inequality, and create sustainable economic opportunities for future generations in these communities.

This grant will support a collaborative initiative led by the Compton Entertainment Chamber of Commerce (CECC), Hub City Legend, and iTranserve to address the lack of economic opportunities and access to essential resources in Compton and surrounding areas. Our initiative focuses on empowering local businesses, entrepreneurs, and youth by providing mentorship, training, and access to funding. We aim to bridge the gap between underrepresented groups and career opportunities in high-demand sectors like tech and the creative economy, through targeted programs that foster job readiness, entrepreneurship, and education.
The project will expand existing programs to provide resources such as professional development, networking opportunities, and career pathways, particularly for young people, BIPOC, and marginalized communities. We will also offer training and mentorship in areas such as business development, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math), and creative industries, while ensuring that local entrepreneurs have the tools to succeed in the modern economy.
Additionally, this initiative will work to increase community engagement, reduce income inequality, and promote civic participation through workshops, events, and partnerships with local organizations. By expanding access to critical resources and opportunities, we seek to empower residents to thrive, fostering long-term economic growth and sustainability in the region.

If our work is successful, Los Angeles County will experience a transformative shift toward greater economic opportunity and social mobility, particularly in underserved areas like Compton. By empowering local businesses, entrepreneurs, and youth with mentorship, resources, and career pathways, we will reduce income inequality and create a more inclusive workforce, particularly in high-demand fields like tech and the creative economy.
Our recent success, like the Joby Aviation Max Experience event, where over 200 local kids and parents participated, highlights the potential of community-driven initiatives to inspire and engage. With this grant, we can expand similar programs, offering educational opportunities and real-world exposure to industries that drive growth. Ultimately, our work will foster a more equitable, vibrant community, where residents have the tools and support to thrive, contributing to a stronger, more prosperous Los Angeles County.