Amid economic uncertainty, shifting policy landscapes, and persistent inflation, one of Southern California’s newest small business events is making its return. The third annual Dream Big: Small Business Empowerment Forum will take place on June 18, bringing together a powerful coalition of leaders, corporations, and changemakers committed to advancing diverse entrepreneurs.
This year’s theme, “Rise in Uncertain Times,” addresses the challenges facing today’s business community. In the face of Trump-era tariffs, anti-immigration policies, and volatile federal oversight, Dream Big equips entrepreneurs with actionable tools, inspiration, and direct access to opportunities—from high-level procurement strategies to AI-driven proposal development.
Event Highlights
Town Hall: “Rise in Uncertain Times”
Moderated by prominent media and policy voices, the town hall will feature:
- U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
- Stephen Cheung, CEO, LA County Economic Development Corporation
- Eleanor Torres, executive managing director, Port of Long Beach
- Jesus Chavez, president/general manager, TelevisaUnivision Los Angeles
- Leticia Rhi Buckley, CEO, La Plaza de Cultura y Artes
- Additional speakers to be announced
Keynote Presentation
Lisa Rehurek, CEO of The RFP Success Company, will deliver a high-impact session on crafting winning proposals and leveraging AI to fuel small business growth.
Culinary Experience
Attendees will enjoy cuisine by Pez Cantina, a Latina-owned, Zagat-rated restaurant known for modern coastal Mexican fare.
Free Virtual Master Class – May 29
In celebration of Small Business Month, Dream Big will host a free virtual pre-event on May 29, led by keynote speaker Lisa Rehurek. This hands-on session on AI-powered proposal writing will give entrepreneurs a valuable head start ahead of the main forum.
Partners and Sponsors
Dream Big 2025 is proudly presented by LAVA and supported by organizations dedicated to inclusive economic development:
- TelevisaUnivision Los Angeles – Supporting small business owners through itsentrepreneurship programs POSiBLE
- Port of Long Beach – Awarded over $55 million in small business contracts in FY2023; celebrating 20 years of its Green Port Policy
- McCarthy Building Companies – Leading community engagement through its partner development program
- Construction Contractors Alliance – Helping to grow underutilized business enterprises and underserved communities in construction contracting
- Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation or VSEDC – Empowering South LA through wealth-building, marketing, and financial literacy programs
- Latino Media Collaborative – Delivering culturally responsive media to drive social impact
Strategic Partners
- California African American Chamber of Commerce
- Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation or LAEDC
- Southern California Minority Supplier Development Council
- Hispanic Coalition of Small Business
Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., June 18
Details: Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dream-big-small-business-empowerment-forum-tickets-1101189420199?aff=oddtdtcreator
Venue: La Plaza de Cultura y Artes, 501 N Main St, Los Angeles