Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 9:00 AM - to - 3:00 PM
The California Endowment, Los Angeles, CA
Dream Big: Small Business Empowerment Forum 2026
Dream Big 2026 is a multicultural small business and social capital forum designed to help entrepreneurs explore new pathways to opportunity.
Dream Big 2026 is a small business and social capital forum designed to help entrepreneurs explore new pathways to opportunity leading up to and beyond the 2028 economy.
Bringing together leaders from business, government, nonprofits, hospitality and supplier diversity, Dream Big focuses on the power of relationships, partnerships and access in one of the nation’s most diverse cities.
Topics include procurement, the hidden economy, tourism and hospitality opportunities, nonprofit partnerships and the future of small business participation in Los Angeles.
Join at The California Endowment for a day of inspiring conversations, networking, curated connections and practical insights designed to help entrepreneurs think bigger about their future.
Hosted at The California Endowment with a modern, welcoming environment and catering by Wolfgang Puck.
Program
Panel I
2028: Are You Ready? Accessing Procurement & Economic Opportunity
A practical discussion on how small businesses can prepare for and compete for contracting opportunities tied to the 2028 economy and beyond.
This panel will address:
Where upcoming opportunities are expected across public agencies and major projects
How small businesses can position themselves early
Common barriers to entry—and how to overcome them
The role of relationships, certifications, and readiness in winning contracts
Panel II
The Untapped Economy: How Small Businesses Partner with Nonprofits
A conversation exploring how small businesses can access new markets through partnerships with nonprofits, foundations, and mission-driven organizations.
Topics include:
Where nonprofits contract for services
How to enter and build relationships within this ecosystem
Why mission alignment matters
How nonprofits can expand impact by working with culturally grounded small businesses
Program Elements
Breakfast and lunch provided by Wolfgang Puck Catering
Small Business Help Desk (open throughout the forum)
Partner & Sponsor Exhibition Area
Networking and relationship-building opportunities
Potential matchmaking sessions connecting small businesses with major nonprofits, foundations, and institutional partners.*
Audience
Small business owners and entrepreneurs
Nonprofits and foundations
Chambers of commerce and business organizations
Corporate supplier diversity teams
Public agencies and procurement leaders
Thanks to LAVA Force for sharing the graphics and details with our LA Startup Events members and friends across Southern California.
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