| “Topanga Canyon small businesses are what make this eclectic and vibrant enclave so special and worth protecting,” said Chair Lindsey P. Horvath. “The storm events earlier this year may have closed Topanga Canyon Boulevard, but they did not hamper the spirit of a community that knows how to come together to weather a disaster. These grants are intended to ensure the Topanga community knows they are never alone—we are in this together and Los Angeles County is here to support Topanga when the community needs us most.”
In July, the County’s Department of Economic Opportunity, in collaboration with PCR Business Finance, launched the Topanga Business Interruption Fund with $250,000 in discretionary funding provided by the Office of Supervisor Horvath. Nearly $196,000 was awarded to the 23 retail, restaurant, and personal service businesses that applied. The remaining $54,000 will be awarded to the Topanga Chamber of Commerce and Visit Topanga for initiatives that support the success of Topanga businesses.
“On behalf of our local businesses, the Topanga Chamber of Commerce gives its sincere thanks to the efforts of Supervisor Lindsey Horvath in creating the Topanga Business Interruption Fund,” said Ron Fomalont, President, Topanga Chamber of Commerce. “The three-month closure of Topanga Canyon Blvd., which functions as both a State highway and as Topanga’s local “Main Street,” was a devastating blow to many of our brick and mortar restaurants, shops, and offices. The financial assistance received through the BIF brought them significant relief. Perhaps of equal importance, it showed all of Topanga that we were not alone in this fight to keep our economy afloat, and that the County was there to stand with us in our time of need.”
“Small businesses facing the aftermath of natural disasters and economic disruptions, such as those affected by the Topanga Canyon landslide, can count on the Department of Economic Opportunity and our Office of Small Business for continued support and vital resources to help with their recovery,” said Kelly LoBianco, Director of the Department of Economic Opportunity. “Through Supervisor Horvath’s steadfast support and dedication to helping the Topanga Canyon community, we were able to swiftly join forces with PCR Business Finance and provide urgent recovery grant funds through the Business Interruption Fund to commercial storefronts affected by the road closure.”Business awardees, include: |
