Support for local small businesses was on full display in Glendale during the “Let’s Grow Glendale!” Summit at the Embassy Suites Hotel, drawing a crowd of over 500 registered attendees keen on tapping into a range of services from banking to marketing, according to a Glendale News report. At the helm, Glendale Mayor Ara Najarian touted the essential role small businesses play, stating, “You bring jobs. You bring innovation. You bring hope. You bring goods, services, great meals, and great products. You’re more than storefronts,” highlighting their contributions beyond mere commerce.
With various breakout sessions, including “Funding Your Future” and “Marketing on Autopilot,” the summit was tailored to tackle the real-world concerns of these local enterprises, providing them with the tools they need for growth and long-term success, said Glendale Councilmember Elen Asatryan talked about the city’s focus on economic development and efficiency as strategic priorities. “We’re already seeing the results: faster timelines, cleaner processes, better access, and a culture that puts people before paperwork,” Asatryan told attendees, signaling the city’s commitment to streamlining business operations.
Steven Snow, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Regional Administrator, also marked his presence, appreciating the fortitude that the business community has shown, pointing out, “I want to honor the resiliency of our local small business community,” and reminding everyone that small businesses account for 40% of the nation’s economic activity and two-thirds of new job creation. Gold sponsors like L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s Office and institutions such as PDC Glendale Community College were crucial to the event’s success.
Further broadening the event’s reach, a recap video and an image gallery have been made available for those who missed the event, or who simply wish to refresh their memory of the interactions, and the insights that were shared that’s according to the same Glendale report. These resources are said to encapsulate the collaborative spirit of the summit, a reflection of the city’s supporting infrastructure, which includes a no-cost HR hotline, free business resource webinars, and a comprehensive guide for doing business within the city.
For more information on Glendale’s economic development efforts or to connect with the city’s corporate and entertainment business sectors, one can visit ChooseGlendaleCA.com or follow on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook at @ChooseGlendale.