Eastmont Community Center’s inaugural Entrepreneurship Readiness Program is well underway, and the impact on its first cohort of participants is already evident. Designed to support small business owners in East Los Angeles, the program has equipped participants with essential tools, expert guidance, and a strong network to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and build sustainable businesses.
The program’s first cohort consists of passionate, driven entrepreneurs, each bringing unique ideas and goals to the table. Through a combination of tailored workshops, one-on-one mentorship, and peer networking, participants have made significant strides in strengthening their businesses. From refining business strategies to expanding community connections, the cohort is seeing measurable results from this comprehensive initiative.
Carla Montes, co-owner of Acai Mood - a local restaurant in East LA, shared:
"We've seen great results and learned so much—managing finances, tax planning, and marketing. We're ready to expand if we choose to."
One standout session in the program was a Marketing workshop led by Brand LA, a nonprofit organization renowned for its support of small business owners in Southern California. This bilingual workshop, conducted in English and Spanish to serve the diverse East LA community, provided participants with actionable insights into entrepreneurship readiness, the importance of digital infrastructure, and marketing strategies tailored to small business needs.
Beyond Marketing, participants have also benefited from mentorship sessions with seasoned professionals, covering topics like financial management, operations, and growth strategies. These resources have helped participants not only set achievable goals but also build confidence in their ability to overcome business challenges.
Metzli Zitlalli, co-owner of a startup in City Terrace also shared:
"It's been an amazing experience for us. Learning from peers who are further along in their journeys has been inspiring, and the topics we've focused on have been incredibly helpful for us as a new business. They’ve given us insights on what to prioritize in the next year and how to avoid potential mistakes."
The Entrepreneurship Readiness Program is more than just a business initiative—it’s a community effort. By equipping local entrepreneurs with the skills and resources to thrive, Eastmont Community Center is fostering economic development and creating a ripple effect that strengthens the entire East LA community.
As the first cohort continues its journey, the early successes of the program underscore its value and potential for future participants. Eastmont Community Center looks forward to supporting more entrepreneurs through additional cohorts, workshops, and community events.
For updates on the program and future opportunities, follow @eastmontcc_ or continue to visit this website.