Long Beach, CA (Jan. 15, 2025) – The Downtown Long Beach Alliance (DTLB Alliance) is thrilled to unveil its dynamic slate of economic development events and programs for 2025. Building on the momentum of the year’s first DTLB Food Series Orientation & Networking session, which took place on Thursday, Jan. 9, these initiatives aim to empower small businesses, entrepreneurs, and the Downtown Long Beach community with essential tools, knowledge, and networking opportunities.
“Our 2025 programming is all about empowering our Downtown Long Beach community to grow and thrive,” said DTLB Alliance Economic Development & Policy Manager, Stephanie El Tawil. “From coffee chats to the educational series, we’ve designed these events and courses to inspire collaboration, spark innovation, and provide real value for local businesses and entrepreneurs.”
From webinars with leading experts to interactive food workshops and coffee meetups, the DTLB Alliance is committed to fostering growth and innovation in the heart of Long Beach.
DTLB Alliance 2025 Economic Development Program Highlights
Webinar Wednesdays
When: Wednesdays, January – May, August – October
What: The continuation of the 8-part virtual webinar series led by tax expert Roy A. Chaney, the remaining January sessions offer essential tools and insights for small businesses to navigate tax season. Topics include deductions, record-keeping strategies, and preparation techniques. In February, sessions will be led by Dr. Regina F. Lark, an ADHD Specialist, and Certified Professional Organizer in Chronic Disorganization.
Link: Check this webpage for updates and to register for upcoming sessions: https://downtownlongbeach.org/invest/webinar-wednesdays/
DTLB Food Series
When: Weekly Jan. 9 – Feb. 20, Weekly
What: Back by popular demand, the second annual DTLB Food Series elevates food-based education with weekly workshops. This year, we’re introducing some exciting additions:
- Weekly pop-up food events featuring DTLB Food Series participants March 6-27
- A Spanish-language DTLB Food Series Aug. 7 – Sept. 18
Savor the flavors of DTLB while learning from local culinary experts and supporting Long Beach’s food scene.
Link: https://downtownlongbeach.org/invest/downtown-long-beach-food-series/
Mug to Mug: A Caffeinated Business-to-Business Exchange
When: The third Tuesday of every other month, beginning Jan. 21
What: Network over coffee with fellow DTLB business owners. Share ideas, explore resources, and find solutions that benefit our thriving Downtown community. Whether you’re looking to brainstorm or just chat with peers, Mug to Mug is a welcoming space to build connections.
Link: https://downtownlongbeach.org/invest/mugtomug/
The Education Series: For Entrepreneurs & Small Businesses
When: Six-week program on Saturdays, starting Feb. 1
What: A collaboration between the DTLB Alliance, CSU’s Institute for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and Farmers & Merchants Bank. This 6-week program empowers budding entrepreneurs with tools, skills, and knowledge to succeed. Graduates receive a Certificate of Accomplishment.
Link: https://downtownlongbeach.org/invest/entrepreneurship-and-investor-resources/entrepreneur-and-small-business-education-series/
DTLB Link & Learn
When: Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of every even month, starting Feb. 12
What: A networking and speaker series designed for DTLB business owners. Connect with peers, service providers, and community resources over refreshments and engaging discussions. Each event brings new insights, opportunities, and resources for business owners and entrepreneurs.
Link: https://downtownlongbeach.org/invest/link-learn/
Brokers by the Beach
When: Quarterly, to be announced
What: DTLB’s unique skyline, distinctive asset inventory, and passionate community attracts investors both domestically and internationally. With rebounding tourist and visitor activity, high-growth residential and retail sectors, and a deep-rooted enthusiasm in arts and culture activations, Downtown is prime for investment. Brokers by the Beach serves as a signature program where we bring interested brokers together to meet the major players involved when investing in DTLB.
Link: Are you a broker? Sign up here to receive more information.
For more information on the DTLB Alliance’s Economic Development programming, please visit: https://downtownlongbeach.org/invest/entrepreneurship-and-investor-resources/.
# # #
About: The Downtown Long Beach Alliance (DTLB Alliance) is a nonprofit, community-based organization whose mission is to cultivate, preserve and promote a healthy, safe, and prosperous Downtown. The DTLB Alliance is recognized as the voice of Downtown Long Beach by the City of Long Beach and the State of California. By balancing the interests of the residents, as well as businesses, the organization creates tangible progress by way of vested interest and solidified partnerships across local, municipal, and commercial lines. For additional information, visit www.downtownlongbeach.org and follow on Facebook @downtownlongbeach, on “X” (formerly Twitter) @dtlballiance and Instagram @dtlballiance.