Our Partnership: Powering Entrepreneurs, Together.
The Fueling Emerging Entrepreneurs program is powered by a unique collaboration between BMO, LISC LA, and Together for LA—a coalition committed to building a more equitable, resilient, and inclusive small business ecosystem across Los Angeles County.
Together, we’re combining bold capital, deep community roots, and cross-sector expertise to support entrepreneurs who have historically faced barriers to funding and growth. This partnership reflects our shared belief: that when small businesses thrive, communities thrive.
Meet the Fueling Emerging Entrepreneurs partners below.
About LISC LA
LISC LA is a community development financial institution (CDFI) and part of a national network of 38 local offices working to expand equitable economic opportunity in distressed communities. As a trusted connector, convener, and capital provider, LISC LA partners with small businesses, community organizations, and local leaders to catalyze inclusive growth across Los Angeles County.
Nationally, LISC has:
• Provided $123 million in small business grants
• Connected over 8,500 businesses to capital
• Delivered technical assistance to more than 1 million businesses
Locally, LISC LA has:
• Invested nearly $200 million in community development
• Created more than 1,100 affordable housing units
• Delivered 71,000+ sq. ft. of new commercial space
• Helped businesses secure $59 million+ in contracts, sustaining 300+ jobs
Our mission is rooted in ensuring every entrepreneur, regardless of zip code, has the tools, capital, and connections to thrive.
We are the Project Lead for Fueling Emerging Entrepreneurs.
About BMO
We’re proud to partner with BMO, a leading North American bank committed to driving progress for individuals, families, and communities. Guided by its purpose to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life, BMO invests in the economic and social potential of entrepreneurs who have historically been excluded from access to capital.
As the 8th largest bank in North America, BMO serves over 13 million customers across personal banking, commercial banking, global markets, and investment banking. Their commitment to financial inclusion, economic mobility, and sustainable growth is helping reshape what’s possible for small business owners across Los Angeles County and beyond.
Through this partnership, BMO is not only providing grant funding for the Fueling Emerging Entrepreneurs program—it’s helping build a more advanced economy, where diverse entrepreneurs are recognized, resourced, and ready to grow.
About Together For LA
Founded in 2020, Together for LA is a strategic partnership that advances a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient economic recovery to disasters, focused on small businesses. Together for LA founding partners include Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, Local Initiatives Support Corporation Los Angeles (LISC LA), The Dr. Lucy Jones Center for Science and Society, The Institute for Sustainable Development (ISD), the Economic Workforce Development Department, City of Los Angeles and Los Angeles County.