In a bold effort to champion economic growth and innovation, Councilwoman Heather Hutt has partnered with Operation HOPE to introduce a groundbreaking $1.25 million scholarship grant for Black-owned businesses in Council District 10. Councilwoman Hutt joined with Operation HOPE Founder/CEO John Hope Bryant last week to announce the initiative which is designed to equip businesses with essential resources like e-commerce platforms, technical assistance, and financial counseling, setting the stage for long-term success and economic resilience.
The program underscores Councilwoman Hutt’s unwavering commitment to empowering local businesses, especially as Los Angeles prepares for major global events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2027 Super Bowl, and the 2028 Olympic Games.
The One Million Black Businesses (1MBB) program offers comprehensive, no-cost support to entrepreneurs seeking to launch, grow, and scale their businesses. Key services include dedicated mentorship; empowering webinars that provide essential tools for sound business decisions; small business development workshops designed to equip owners with expertise for effective management and expansion; personalized 1:1 coaching to support new ventures or scaling existing ones; an exclusive Shopify discount of $1 for the first six months for current business owners; and access to capital resources.
“This allocation is part of our $1 million Black Business program in partnership with Shopify. We’re looking to empower Black entrepreneurs to level up their business infrastructure and seize opportunities with upcoming events like the Olympics in Los Angeles,” said Bryant.
“I truly believe this is incredibly important,” Councilwoman Hutt added. “I’ve often said, ‘We have company coming,’ and we need to be ready. That means we must become proficient at processing more sales efficiently and keeping proper records to support them. Starting this process now—getting on platforms like Shopify, completing your business plan, filing taxes—sets you up for success. Preparing early also positions you to do business with the City of Los Angeles when the time comes.
“Whether it’s finding authentic goods in Leimert Park, skateboards, African clothing, or other unique items, being part of this trusted infrastructure will make you stand out,” she continued. “But if your business isn’t ready—if your operations aren’t streamlined—you may miss out on opportunities. I don’t want this pivotal time over the next three years to turn into a moment of regret.”
Operation HOPE, with its 1,500 offices across 42 states, has a four-decade long history of transforming underserved communities by helping renters become homeowners, check-cashing customers become banking clients, and small business dreamers become successful business owners. Bryant, speaking about Shopify’s role, emphasized the importance of bringing small businesses into the digital economy, saying, “If you sell one product, Shopify will finance your second. We’re not just giving people grants—we’re giving them dignity, independence, and a reliable foundation to scale their dreams.”
“As we look ahead to major economic events, we must be ready,” Bryant emphasized. “This isn’t just about today—it’s about building generational wealth for years to come. Let’s use this moment as a
platform to empower our communities and leave no one behind.”