Unlocking LA County’s economic opportunity and potential for
job seekers and businesses.
DEO works to unlock LA County’s economic potential and build thriving, inclusive local communities.
Whether you’re looking to start a new career or grow a small business, we got you covered! The Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) is LA County’s central economic and workforce development hub helping residents connect to new career pathways, start and certify a business, and access life-changing opportunities.
We’re working to advance equity and inclusive, sustainable growth through all DEO programs and services by targeting economic benefits to the most vulnerable and marginalized communities, small businesses and residents in LA County.
Team DEO can help you:
Connect to LA County’s Small Business Commission (SBC)
DEO is home to LA County’s Small Business Commission, a 25 member advisory committee appointed by the LA County Board of Supervisors to provide ongoing advice and support for small businesses within LA County.
Grow Your Business with the Economic Mobility Initiative
Empower your small business or non-profit by accessing tailored support that helps you thrive and build generational wealth in our communities through DEO’s new Economic Mobility Initiative (EMI). Access no cost support today!
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for LA County
DEO guides economic and workforce development policies and strategies impacting County residents, businesses, and communities. Learn about LA County’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for LA County.
Connect to New Career Pathways
Whether you are looking for your first job or are looking to enhance your existing career, we are here to help. DEO is home to 18 America’s Job Centers of California, located throughout LA County, helping job seekers connect to their dream careers!
Topanga Canyon BIF Now Open for Applications
Applications are being accepted Monday July 1, 2024 at 9am through Friday July 26, 2024 at 5pm. The program assists businesses significantly impacted by the loss of customer support and business revenue due to the landslide that closed Topanga Canyon Boulevard on March 9, 2024.
Access Small Business Services
DEO is home to LA County’s Office of Small Business (OSB) – the County’s one stop shop dedicated to helping small business owners and entrepreneurs with certification, contracting opportunities, one-on-one counseling, and more!
Build Back Better.
DEO is committed to helping communities & businesses build back better by deploying more than $156 million in economic and workforce development programing through the American Rescue Plan Act.
Small Business corner
Supporting Sidewalk Vendors
With support from local and regional partners, we’re here to help sidewalk vendors start up and thrive in our growing open-air economy, while also ensuring safe and healthy communities through compliant sidewalk vending operations.
Shop Local LA County
Neighbors, family members, and friends are the faces behind our most cherished small businesses! To share the love back, Team DEO kick started Shop Local LA County to support mom & pop stores and strengthen the bonds that connect our communities.
Mentor. Train. Hire. Elevate!
Businesses in LA County can boost their workforce and create new career pathways for youth through Youth @ Work Elevate!
100% of the internship will be covered for up to 400 hours. Partner with Team DEO and get matched with a highly-motivated youth intern!
DEO Newsroom
LA County Invests $25M to Support Small Businesses and Strengthen Communities Through the New Economic Mobility Initiative (EMI)
The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), in partnership with 15 local community-based organizations, launched the Economic Mobility Initiative (EMI), a $25 million investment aiming to support the startup and growth of local entrepreneurs, businesses, and nonprofits.
$4.1 Million Grant Program Now Available for Small and Micro Businesses in LA County Affected by COVID-19 and 2023 Hollywood Double Strikes
The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and the County Film Office, in partnership with Los Angeles County Board of Supervisor Chair Lindsey P. Horvath and Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger, unveiled a new $4.1 million grant program to provide relief to small and micro businesses affected by both COVID-19 and the 2023 Hollywood Double Strikes.
LA County Mobilizes Regional Partners and Resources for Workers Impacted by the Closures of 99 Cents Only Stores Countywide
The LA County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and its regional partners held the first of several upcoming rapid response events to urgently connect soon-to-be laid off local workers, impacted by the recent bankruptcy and closure of dozens of local 99 Cents Only Stores, to critical workforce services.
LA County Launches 2-Year Assistant Teacher Apprenticeship Program Providing Free Education and Training to Workers Seeking Early Childhood Education Jobs
The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) in partnership with Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell of the Second District kicked off the County’s 2-year Early Care and Education Assistant Teacher Apprenticeship Program providing free community college education and on-the job site-based training for workers interested in teaching and childcare career pathways.