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 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 us 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

Confirmed Participants

Brenda Solórzano – CEO, The California Endowment

Moctesuma Esparza – Activist, filmmaker, CEO of Milagro Cinemas

Victor Dominguez, CEO of YMCA Los Angeles
Jazz Keys – CEO, Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation

Additional speakers and moderators to be announced.

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

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher LAVA