LOS ANGELES BUSINESSSOURCE CENTER ECOSYSTEM OPERATORS 2026

The City of Los Angeles Community Investment Department is soliciting proposals for the Los Angeles BusinessSource Center (LABSC) Ecosystem Operators 2026. The objective is to engage qualified organizations to manage centers that provide business owners with training, instruction, technical assistance, consulting, and access to capital. The City intends to fund ten centers with a total budget of up to 7.3 million dollars, with individual service area funding maximums ranging from 712,500 to 775,000 dollars. The initial contract term runs from January 1, 2027, through June 30, 2027, with the possibility of optional renewals. Proposers must submit a comprehensive package by September 14, 2026, including a notice of intent due by August 31, 2026. Requirements include audited financial statements for fiscal years 2023 and 2024, a detailed budget following 2 CFR Part 200 guidelines, and a facility form ensuring ADA compliance and site control by January 2027. Applicants must also demonstrate formal collaborations with higher education institutions, financial institutions, and other community partners. Evaluation is based on the City's judgment of which proposals best meet its needs, rather than solely on the lowest cost. Selected operators must adhere to strict compliance standards, including the City's Code of Conduct regarding conflicts of interest and standard provisions for city contracts. Personnel requirements include mandatory fingerprinting and background checks for staff interacting with youth, as well as tuberculosis testing. Additionally, contractors must maintain specific insurance coverages and follow rigorous subcontracting and procurement procedures to ensure fair and open competition.