VOICE Spring 2012

Chamber VOICE

Spring/Summer 2012 · VOLUME 11 · ISSUE 2 A publication of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce

Follow the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce on and at lachamber.com.

onsidering its tremendous impact and numbers, “small business” is a bit of a misnomer. Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy and are particularly essential to California’s health and well-being. Consider the following:

Small businesses totaled 3.4 million in California in 2009.

They represent 99.2 percent of all employers in the State and employ more than half of the private-sector workforce.

California small businesses employed 6.5 million workers in 2009.

Small businesses in California represented all of the net new jobs from 2005-2008.

The U.S. Small Business Administration classifies a business as “small” if it has less than 500 employees. However, most businesses in Southern California are much smaller than that; nearly 98 percent of all L.A. area businesses have fewer than 100 employees, and of those, 76 percent have fewer than 10 employees.

Small businesses are often overlooked by policymakers and major economic development legislation, but when the economy was struggling, the importance of small businesses and the unique assets they bring to the table became more obvious than ever. Now everyone from Fortune 500 CEOs to the president is placing more of a focus on making sure they succeed.

The last several years have seen local and national innovations and developments in several areas that have a big effect on small business.

FEDERAL AND LOCAL POLICYIn his state of the union address, President Barack Obama called on Congress to, “tear down regulations that prevent aspiring entrepreneurs from getting the financing

C to grow.” Congress did just that, passing The Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act of 2012, which was signed by the president in April. This bipartisan bill reduces regulatory barriers to increase small businesses’ access to capital, and its crowdfunding provisions allow companies to raise up to $1 million from investors making small donations online. This legislation, which takes effect in 2013, has the potential to be a gamechanger for startups in L.A. who find themselves competing for limited funding from investors.

Locally, the Chamber has been working with the City Council and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa to create a better environment for small businesses, including speaking out in support of independent contractors, advocating for a streamlined regulatory process and championing infrastructure investments that will create opportunities for the local small business community.

Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben spoke at L.A. City Hall recently for the signing of a key development reform ordinance meant to streamline the multiple approvals process that business owners are required to complete.

“The Multiple Approvals Ordinance represents a huge step toward realizing the City's Development Reform Strategic Plan," Toebben said. "It will simultaneously make the review process simpler and more transparent for business and the community alike."

This is the first step in an effort to simplify the City's zoning code, which hasn't been comprehensively updated since 1946. The Chamber is an advocate for small business at City Hall, pushing local policymakers to cut red tape and consider the impact potential legislation will have on the business community.

Continued on page 4

n March, the Chamber led a bipartisan delegation of more than 175 business, civic and labor leaders in Washington, D.C. to advocate for job creation and to ensure that Los Angeles continues to be a driver in the nation's economic recovery. This year’s ACCESS Washington, D.C. – Los Angeles on the Hill trip featured 15 teams advocating for 35 priority issues. Over three days, delegates met with more than 100 legislators and agency officials to advocate for transportation, education, homelessness, and energy and environment.

I

Continued on page 5

Moving America Forward

When we talk about

communities that have their

act together, we use Los Angeles

as a model.

— Ray LaHood U.S. Secretary of Transportation

“ “The delegation attended a special White House briefing as well as meetings with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu, U.S. Secretary of Commerce John Bryson, Small Business Administrator Karen Mills, Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Sen. Barbara Boxer, House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy, Customs and Border Protection Acting Assistant Commissioner Kevin McAleenan, Federal Aviation Administration Acting Administrator Michael Huerta and many more.

At the top of this year’s agenda was transportation reauthorization and America Fast Forward. "When we talk about communities that have their act together, we use Los Angeles as a model," said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood as he

2012California’s current term limits law is more than two decades old and says legislators can only complete their 14-year lifetime limit by serving three two-year terms in the Assembly and two four-year terms in the Senate. However, a loophole allows them to serve nearly 17 years. This causes politicians to constantly rotate from one office to another in at attempt to extend their careers.

VOTE “YES” ON PROP. 28, JUNE 5Prop. 28 reduces the lifetime limit to 12 years by imposing a strict limit based on the number of years served in the Legislature, not on the number of terms. This allows lawmakers to focus on developing expertise and long-term policy solutions rather than on their next election.

The Chamber partnered with the L.A. County Federation of Labor on this term limits reform initiative, and it will appear on the June 5 ballot. Vote “YES” for a fresh start for term limits on June 5.

Gary Toebben, President & CEO, 213.580.7525, [email protected]

David Eads, Executive Vice President & COO, 213.580.7546, [email protected]

Benjamin Stilp, CFO & Vice President of Administration, 213.580.7521, [email protected]

David Rattray, SVP of Education & Workforce Development, 213.580.7515, [email protected]

Carlos J. Valderrama, SVP of Global Initiatives, 213.580.7570, [email protected]

Brian K. Williams, VP of Leadership Programs, 213.580.7577, [email protected]

Lee Ligons, VP of Business Development, 213.580.7523, [email protected]

Michelle Attebery, Director of Events, 213.580.7585, [email protected]

Chamber VOICE is a quarterly publication of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce 350 S. Bixel St., Los Angeles, CA 90017.

For membership information, contact the Chamber at 213.580.7592 or visit lachamber.com.

The Chamber VOICE is produced by the L.A. Area Chamber Marketing & Communications department in conjunction with Chamber Staff.

Mandy Denaux, Director of Marketing & Communications, 213.580.7532, [email protected]

Monika Medina, Senior Interactive Marketing Manager, 213.580.7516, [email protected]

Alejandro Guzmán, Communications Manager, 213.580.7544, [email protected]

Meghan Long, Marketing & Communications Manager, 213.580.7548, [email protected]

Lily Tran, Graphic Designer, 213.580.7573, [email protected]

Chamber Senior Staff

Event Highlights

WED. | June 13Small Business Awards

Join the Chamber and the U.S. Small Business Administration-Los Angeles District Office as we celebrate small business excellence in Los Angeles. The annual luncheon pays tribute to small business owners and advocates in more than a dozen award categories, including Small Business Person of the Year. Contact Michelle Attebery, 213.580.7585 or [email protected].

Want to know what’s coming up at the Chamber? Visit lachamber.com/events to view and register for upcoming events. Below are some key signature events you don’t want to miss:

Calendar of Events

TUE. – WED. | MAY 22-23ACCESS Sacramento

Join business leaders and public officials in our State’s capital for a one-night, one-day trip to meet with Gov. Jerry Brown’s administration, State Assembly and Senate Leadership on issues including jobs, business-friendly legislation, balancing the California budget, CEQA strengthening, regulatory reform and education. Contact Jessica Duboff, 213.580.7558 or [email protected].

Small business is the lifeblood of the economy

Small businesses have generated 65 percent of net new American jobs over the past 17 years and hire 43 percent of high tech workers.

Increase your organization’s visibility in Los Angeles and gain

new customers by advertising in the L.A. Area Chamber’s

publications and website. Advertising with the Chamber is

available exclusively to Chamber members.

Contact Monika Medina, 213.580.7516 or [email protected].

AUG. 21 – 29 DISCOVER CUBA WITH THE CHAMBER

Join the Chamber for the travel opportunity of a lifetime to experience the history and culture of this fascinating country. The price is $3,799 and includes airfare, eight nights in first class hotels, 21 meals, transportation within Cuba and aCuba entry visa. Reserve your spot today. Contact Mandy Denaux, 213.580.7532 or [email protected].

OPPORTUNITY IS KNOCKING

every dayIS YOUR BUSINESS DOING ALL THAT IT CAN TO SEEK AND WIN NEW BUSINESS?

With BidConnect, L.A. Area Chamber members can do just that.

With BidConnect, Chamber members can view government spending with the purpose of bidding on relevant projects, and opt-in to receive a daily email alert of new bids and RFPs available in the region. This benefit, valued at $2,200 per company, is offered at no cost to members and saves you time and money by finding opportunities that would otherwise be time consuming to research and gather.

Find new opportunities today. Visit lachamber.com/bidconnect.

For more information, contact Pat Clark, [email protected] or 213.580.7595.

page

A better L.A. is our business

2

n business news the focus is often on large

organization too. At the Chamber, where most of our 1,600 members are small businesses, we continuously strive to develop programs, services and events that cater to the unique challenges and opportunities faced by small business.

From our Small Business Owners Roundtable and Small Business Council to our Power Hour series and new BidConnect program, the Chamber provides small business with the resources, connections, access, visibility and voice it needs to succeed.

When it comes to advocating on your behalf, there is no other organization that is as committed and visible as the L.A. Area Chamber. On a daily basis, we work with the L.A. City Council, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Gov. Brown and the State Legislature to create a better environment for small businesses. We speak out in support of legislation that will help you grow and discourage legislation that will add to your costs and impede your success. We are your partner so that you can focus your time and energy on growing your business.

Next month we’ll join with the Small Business Administration to recognize the region’s small business success stories and the champions who have helped them succeed. This is just one of many ways we support and recognize small businesses, and we hope you’ll join us in that celebration. Thank you for your continued partnership as we work together to build a better L.A.

Sincerely,

Gary L. ToebbenPresident & CEOLos Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce

Ienterprises. But the fact is that the 3.4 million small businesses in California are the very lifeblood of our economy – comprising more than half of the private sector workforce. Wall Street may get much of the media’s attention, but it is Main Street that drives employment numbers.

As you’ll see in our cover story, these faces of hard work and self-reliance play a vital role in Los Angeles – where they make up more than 98 percent of all businesses. And it’s small businesses that drive this

More than 76 percent of all businesses in Los Angeles have fewer than 10 employees.

Find new opportunities today. Visit lachamber.com/bidconnect.

For more information, contact Pat Clark, [email protected] or 213.580.7595.

page

ChamberVOICE

Seen + Heard at the Chamber

3

10 ways the Chamber helped your businessYour investment in the Chamber helps us build a stronger economy and quality of life in the region. Here are a few ways we helped improve L.A. business:

Partnered in summit to end chronic homelessness

Home for Good, an initiative of the Chamber and United Way of Greater Los Angeles with the goal to end chronic homelessness in L.A. County, celebrated its first year of accomplishments at a summit at the JW Marriott at L.A. Live. "We are coming together like we never have before to make a difference," said Jerry Neuman, Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton, LLP, and co-chair of the Business Leaders Task Force on Homelessness. The Home for Good plan is endorsed by more than 100 community leaders and organizations. "While Home for Good is not the first plan to end homelessness in L.A., it has great potential to be the last," said Barbara Poppe, executive director of the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness.Bottom line: The Home for Good plan presents a common-sense path to end long-term and veteran homelessness in L.A. County by 2016.

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CUTTING RED TAPE. "[The Multiple Approvals Ordinance] will simultaneously make the review process simpler and more transparent," said Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben at a press conference.

PREPARING THE FUTURE WORKFORCE. More than 1,000 high school seniors and their parents learn about financial aid opportunities during the 10th annual Cash for College Financial Aid Workshops.

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Advocated for Solar feed-in tariff pilot program

The L.A. City Council unanimously approved an ordinance to authorize delegation of authority to the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power for a solar feed-in tariff program. With this approval, LADWP can begin partnering with program participants to purchase energy generated through solar rooftop installations. This Chamber-supported 10MW program will lay the groundwork for a larger program to meet State mandates and 2020 renewable portfolio standard goals.Bottom line: The CLEAN LA Coalition, of which the Chamber is a member, has been a leading advocate for this program which will supply renewable energy at reasonable cost and create jobs while working towards achieving state mandates.

Co-organized forum for Chinese Vice President’s trip to L.A.

Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping attended the U.S.-China Economy and Trade Cooperation Forum at the JW Marriott at L.A. Live. The forum was attended by U.S. Secretary of Commerce John Bryson, Gov. Jerry Brown and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. "Los Angeles is the major hub of trade between China and the United States," said Vice President Xi. California exported $12.4 billion in goods and services to China in 2010. Bottom line: The Chamber was a co-sponsor of this event with the City of L.A.

Supported ruling on employer liability

The Chamber applauded the California Supreme Court for its ruling that employers cannot be held liable if employees decide to work instead of taking a break. The Court ruled that instead of ensuring that workers take their meal breaks, employers must provide uninterrupted, 30-minute, duty-free times in which the worker can come and go. The Chamber has been a proponent of this issue. Bottom line: This ruling affirms that it is not an employer’s job to police employee lunch breaks.

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The L.A. Jobs PAC, sponsored by the Chamber and governed by an independent board of directors, ran an aggressive campaign in support of the winner of the 15th District City Council Seat Joe Buscaino because of his commitment to economic improvements in District 15. "There's a need to create jobs and bolster public safety in order to improve the City's economic climate," said Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben. "We believe that Joe has the skills and drive to accomplish these goals." Bottom line: L.A. Jobs PAC works to elect candidates who will place a top priority on job creation and business investment.

Endorsed winning candidate for L.A. City Council seat

9

4 Championed infrastructure investment

In his FY 2013 budget, President Barack Obama included $50 million for the Westside Subway Extension and $31 million for the Regional Connector — two of our region's top transit priorities. Funding for the subway would go toward extending the Metro Purple Line to Westwood, and the Regional Connector would link several rail lines in downtown Los Angeles. The Westside Subway Extension will create 44,800 jobs and the Regional Connector Project up to 13,770 jobs. Both of these projects are included in the America Fast Forward initiative championed by the Chamber.Bottom line: America Fast Forward will accelerate the development and construction of 12 local transit projects, building 30 years of local transportation projects within the next decade.

2 Supported zoning code reform

Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben spoke at a press conference at L.A. City Hall for the signing of a key development reform ordinance. The Multiple Approvals Ordinance, passed by L.A. City Council in April, is a significant step in cutting red tape in the land use regulation process. It is the first in a series of code simplification ordinances that are part of Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's development reform initiative to simplify the City's zoning code. The ordinance will both coordinate expiration dates for projects with multiple entitlements and extend the expiration date three years for entitlements that have expired — helping projects that are weathering the economic recovery.Bottom line: This is an essential first step to cutting red tape, streamlining the regulatory process and creating a better climate for all local businesses.

1 Led delegation to nation’s capital to move America forward

More than 175 business, civic and labor leaders gathered in the nation’s capital for the annual ACCESS Washington, D.C. – Los Angeles on the Hill trip to advocate for job creation and to ensure that Los Angeles continues to be a driver in the nation's economic recovery. They attended a special White House briefing as well as meetings with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu, U.S. Secretary of Commerce John Bryson, Small Business Administrator Karen Mills, Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Sen. Barbara Boxer, House Majority Whip Rep. Kevin McCarthy and many more.Bottom line: Through this trip and consistent year-round advocacy efforts, the Chamber ensures that the voice of L.A. area businesses is a powerful voice in Washington, D.C.

BUILDING INTERNATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS. Third from left Chinese Vice President Xi and third from right Gov. Jerry Brown at the forum co-organized by the Chamber.

California Attorney General Kamala Harris at the Accenture Pancakes & Politics Breakfast Speaker Series in April.

Helped students access financial aid for college

The Chamber helped more than 1,000 high school seniors and their parents learn about financial aid opportunities during the 10th annual Cash for College Financial Aid Workshops. In addition to “Super Saturday” workshops, more than 130 workshops took place between January and the March 2 filing deadline, all in an effort to help boost financial aid completion rates in the region. “My husband and I didn’t go to college. We’re not familiar with these forms,” said Rosa Alcantar, who came with her son to ask questions about tax requirements. “We're glad this is here.”Bottom line: A college-educated and highly trained workforce is vital to the future of our economy.

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In January..."If I had the power, I would do everything possible to get money invested right now in transportation projects that create jobs and improve the economy," said Dario Frommer, California Transportation Commission Chair, at the Transportation & Goods Movement Council. Cedd Moses, 213 Ventures Development Company, discussed the revitalization of downtown L.A. at the Power Hour Series. The Accenture Pancakes and Politics Breakfast Speakers Series kicked off with U.S. Rep. Karen Bass. CA State Treasurer Bill Lockyer spoke about the effect of budget cuts on education at the Education & Workforce Development Council. "Trade in developing countries is growing three times faster than in our nation. This is the reason why we need to export more,” said Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce and U.S. Trade Representative, Ambassador Michael Kantor, Mayer Brown LLP, at the Global Initiatives Council. In February...“There is no villain in health care expenditures. The government, insurance companies and the public have all played a role," said C. Duane Dauner, president and CEO of the California Hospital Association, at the Health Care Council. Rep. Xavier Becerra spoke to the Education & Workforce Development Council as members prepared for the annual ACCESS Washington, D.C. trip. Professor Ali Modarres, California State University, Los Angeles, and L.A. City Councilmember Paul Krekorian discussed the role of emerging first- and second-generation leaders at the Global Connections Summit. At a special briefing, Edelman USA President & CEO Matthew Harrington spoke about principle-based leadership. House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer met with several Chamber members and elected officials for a fundraising lunch. State Board of Equalization Chairman Jerome Horton spoke about taxes and how they’ll affect businesses at the Accenture Pancakes & Politics Breakfast Speaker Series.In March... "If you want to invest in Los Angeles, whether it be a business, entertainer or university, we would hope the City would want to help facilitate and bring in revenue," said Cindy Starrett, Latham & Watkins LLP, at the Land Use, Construction & Housing Council. "Our region is one of the most diverse in the country. Diversity is the key, it's a bridge to those markets overseas. These links can be mobilized,” said Jim MacLellan, Port of Los Angeles, at the Global Initiatives Council. In April... Jodi Walker, Success Alliances, gave tips on building business relationships at the Small Business Council. Jim Lott, Hospital Association of Southern California; Dr. Franklin Pratt, American Heart Association, Greater Los Angeles; Frances Oney, Meridian Pacific, Inc.; and Dr. Marcy Zwelling spoke about Proposition 29 at the Health Care Council. The Transportation & Goods Movement Council welcomed Los Angeles Department of Transportation General Manager Jaime de la Vega and Metro's Roderick Diaz to discuss local projects and city transportation priorities. State Sen. Alex Padilla spoke about the State budget and Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendant John Deasy discussed the parcel tax initiative at the Education & Workforce Development Council. Ex-Im Bank Vice Chair & First Vice President Wanda Felton spoke about exporting at a special briefing.

Don't miss out on any action this summer ‒ go to lachamber.com/events for a calendar of upcoming speakers and events.

7 Selected to lead STEM hub

The Chamber is developing a science, technology, education

and math (STEM) hub that will develop a set of regional priorities to ensure youth are able to compete in a 21st century economy. “STEM competency is essential to our economic future,” said Chamber Senior Vice President David Rattray. “Between 1999 and 2007, STEM California jobs grew at 25 percent while non-STEM employment increased by just 14 percent.”Bottom line: The region's fastest growing industries will need a steady supply of qualified candidates to fill those jobs.

Firms with fewer than 20 employees spend 36 percent more per employee than larger firms to comply with federal regulations.

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There’s No Business Like Small Business, continued from page 1

— Reg Hiebert Sales Manager, ISEC Inc.

“ “Finding a job candidate through LA Youth at Work saved me a

tremendous amount of time and energy. It was encouraging to

hire someone so well-trained and excited to work.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENTA recent Wells Fargo/Gallup Small Business Index Survey found that while half of small business owners hired new workers in 2010, 42 percent hired fewer employees than needed, and most said this was because it was hard to find qualified workers for the open positions.

Not only is there a disparity between the skills that workers have and the skills employers need, but finding the right fit for a job vacancy takes a lot of time and energy; most small businesses struggle to dedicate the amount of time a good job search requires.

The Chamber recognizes the need for a pre-screened and pre-trained workforce to meet employer needs and the requirements of the 21st century workplace. Through its LA Youth at Work initiative, entry-level workers go through training to ensure that they have the hard and soft skills necessary for entry-level employment. LA Youth at Work helps businesses gain access to qualified candidates, and provides young adults with job skills to advance their education and career.

"Finding a job candidate through LA Youth at Work saved me a tremendous amount of time and energy,” said Reg Hiebert, Sales Manager, ISEC Inc. He had 80 employees and was looking for a summer worker to help out with a project for Los Angeles World Airports. “It was encouraging to hire someone so well-trained and excited to work."

FINANCINGProcuring capital is one of the biggest challenges to small businesses today, but a new survey by Omega Performance shows that the tide might be shifting. In February, 77 percent of U.S. bankers surveyed reported that they are likely to increase their small business lending. In April, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced that banks participating in the Small Business Lending Fund, which encourages community banks to increase lending to small businesses, significantly increased their lending in the last quarter of 2011 by $1.3 billion over the prior quarter.

Wells Fargo, the #1 SBA lender in America last year, was one of the first major banks to develop a team of small-business bankers to serve companies with less than $5 million in revenue. They hired 1,300 small-business bankers in 2009, and 700 more in 2010. Between the third and fourth quarter last year, Wells Fargo increased its loans to businesses with less than $5 million in revenue by 63 percent.

Bank of America has also made significant commitments to small business programs even as it makes major cutback in other areas. The company increased new credit to small businesses by 20 percent in 2011, hired more than 700 small business bankers since late 2010, and is three-quarters of the way to completing its goal of hiring 1,000 more by mid-2012. In March, the bank announced the launch of a new 401(k) solution that offers small business owners a tool that can be used to retain employees and attract new talent. “Offering a simplified 401(k) plan,

designed to address the needs of small business owners and their employees, is yet another way we are showing our commitment to supporting small businesses,” said Bank of America Small Business Executive Robb Hilson.

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTBank of America has also made a commitment to helping small businesses grow through The Inner City Capital Connections program, an initiative designed to stimulate the flow of capital to inner city businesses, which attract 20-50 percent less growth capital than average businesses. This free program provides business owners with training and pitching experience and introduces them to private equity investors. More than 90 percent of participants attract financing within two years.

Similarly, Goldman Sachs’ 10,000 Small Businesses Program lends a hand to small businesses by offering free access to education, mentors, networking and financial capital. The five-year, $500 million initiative helps small businesses in urban and rural communities through a peer learning-based approach, and each business owner develops a growth plan as a capstone to the course.

“We have a saying that what we’re teaching is invisible theory practically applied immediately,” said Dr. Sharon E. Peterson of Los Angeles City College, the training arm of the 10,000 Small Businesses program in L.A.

Paul Veyna, president of TV Plumbing & Sewer and current participant in the 10,000 Small Businesses program, applied with the hopes of growing his company, boosting sales and putting his professional life in focus. “I’d been trying to provide stability to my business, but it didn’t feel like I was connecting the dots,” said the 25-year veteran of the industry. “If there were 100 budding entrepreneurs standing in front of me, I would tell them to see if you can get blessed enough to get into this program. Because that’s what it is...a true blessing.”

For more information on the Chamber’s small business programs, contact Pat Clark, 213.580.7595 or [email protected]; or Bridget Netter, 213.580.7576 or [email protected].

Statewide Term Limits Reform - Californians for a Fresh Start - VOTE YES! Proposition 28 on June 5 ballotThe Chamber partnered with the L.A. County Federation of Labor on a term limits reform initiative that will be on the June 5 election. The initiative will reduce state lawmakers’ time in office to 12 years, but allow them to serve the entire time in a single house. This allows lawmakers to focus on developing expertise and long-term policy solutions rather than on their next election.

Big dreams for a better L.A.

or more than 120 years, the L.A. Area Chamber has Fchampioned L.A.’s port, international airport, water system,

entertainment industry and freeway system. We asked

members of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, what’s your

dream project or policy idea for the L.A. region that the

Chamber can help make a reality?

“

The Los Angeles region is home to some of the nation’s finest universities. Yet for the average L.A. family, the ability to pay for a college education is becoming out of reach. A significant contributing factor is the federally-fixed 7.9 percent compound interest rate for student and parent PLUS loans. My dream is for the Chamber to be a voice for a market-competitive interest rate for federally guaranteed education loans.

Jim GarrisonPresident Pacific Federal Insurance Corporation

Startups in their first year of existence create an average of 3 million jobs per year.

SUPPORTBUSINESS ADVOCACY PRIORITIES

STATEWIDE POLITICAL REFORM:

Eliminating the City of L.A.'s Uncompetitive Business Tax (Gross Receipts)The City of Los Angeles levies a gross receipts tax on most businesses, making L.A. the second-highest taxed city in L.A. County and near the top of all major U.S. cities. The Chamber supports the business tax reform commission's recommendations to phase out the business tax.

L.A. City Office of Economic AnalysisIn 2010, the Chamber won a unanimous vote at City Hall for our proposed Office of Economic Analysis that will provide a nonpartisan, independent review of proposed City legislation for the potential job and economic impact. The pilot project was funded for the first year with $250k. The Chamber is working with City Hall to identify a permanent source of funding.

L.A. City Planning & Permit ReformL.A. has one of the most expensive and confusing planning/permitting processes of any major U.S. city. Applicants often have to deal with multiple city departments with differing standards and timelines. The Chamber strongly supports the mayor’s efforts to make the system more transparent and efficient, as well as provide certainty to all stakeholders.

California Environment Quality Act (CEQA) StrengtheningCEQA was originally intended to ensure that development projects meet environmental standards. However, the law is often abused to stop projects for political reasons wholly unrelated to the environment. In March 2011, the Chamber convened a wide consortium of L.A. based CEQA experts and developed a working document, entitled "CEQA Strengthening Recommendations." Reaching out to build a statewide coalition of support, the goal is to fix CEQA so that it lives up to its original intent.

Local Ports & Goods MovementThe Port of Los Angeles is a $50 billion per year economic engine, and supporting pro-customer priorities and infrastructure improvements are essential to maintaining the port as the nation's busiest complex, particularly as we near the opening of the widened Panama Canal in 2014. The Chamber advocates for expediting terminal improvement projects, ensuring an economically feasible clean air action plan and opposing mandates or new fees on port customers.

America Fast ForwardIn 2008, voters approved a sales tax increase to generate $40 billion in transportation funding over the next 30 years. Known locally as the 30/10 initiative, America Fast Forward seeks to partner with the federal government to build a dozen major transportation projects within the next 10 years rather than over three decades. This innovative bipartisan plan will create more than 100,000 jobs. Cities across the country are looking at replicating this plan for their own transportation needs. The TIFIA component is included in reauthorization language that passed the Senate this year.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Modernization LAX is a $60 billion annual economic engine for our region and supports thousands of local jobs. The Chamber is proud of recent progress to modernize outdated terminals for a better passenger experience. However, there is still a pressing need to reconfigure the two northern runways for greater passenger safety and to accommodate the next generation of larger, cleaner and quieter aircraft.

BUSINESS CLIMATE

REGIONAL ECONOMIC ENGINES

L.A. City budget Crisis & Public Pension ReformIn 2006, the Chamber and former L.A. Mayor Richard Riordan first raised concerns about the City's unfunded pension liabilities. Today, the pension crisis is the single greatest financial threat to the City's solvency. Unfunded pension liability and overly generous pension benefits affect local businesses through reduced City services and higher fees, and could cost taxpayers and our city billions of dollars. The Chamber supports structural reforms to the City's budget process that include: (1) reform the City’s pension system, including requiring current and former employees to contribute to their health care benefits; (2) focus on the delivery of essential city services; (3) implement performance-based, multi-year budgeting and improved accounting practices; and (4) strengthen the reserve fund.

GOVERNANCE & FISCAL REFORM

Business Leaders Homelessness Task Force (Partnership with United Way of Greater Los Angeles)The Chamber and United Way of Greater Los Angeles formed the Business leaders' Task Force and launched the Home For Good report - a five-year strategic plan to end chronic and veteran homelessness in L.A. via permanent supportive housing (PSH). Placing a chronically homeless individual in PSH costs taxpayers 42 percent less than when they are living on the street.

REGIONAL STEWARDSHIP

Improving Public Education through Public PolicyThe Chamber is supporting the following legislation:SB 694 (Padilla) – Would improve children’s oral health, which can reduce chronic absenteeism and increase student success.SB 1062 (Liu) – Chamber-sponsored, would strengthen the leadership capacity of the Chancellor’s Office that currently has limited hiring flexibility for appointing senior staff and streamlining the Board of Governor’s regulatory process.SB 1456 (Lowenthal) – Would align the recommendations of the Student Success Task Force responsible for developing a strategic plan to produce the college-educated workers our economy needs. SB 1070 (Steinberg) - Improve linkages and career-technical education pathways between high schools and community colleges in order to better prepare middle and high school students for success.

Third Grade Level ReadingThe Chamber supports efforts that promote 3rd grade level reading. Research shows that students not reading proficiently by third grade falter in later grades and often drop out before earning a high school diploma.

Education FundingThe Chamber will engage key education stakeholders to emphasize the importance of early childhood education investments and promote a combination of smart cuts to both K-12 and Cal Grants.

EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Moving America Forward, continued from page 1

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ChamberVOICE

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Kenneth H. FearnManaging PartnerIntegrated Capital, LLC

My dream project for the City of Los Angeles would be a focused effort at eliminating the City’s projected operating deficits. We must encourage city leadership to address our fiscal reality in an honest and transparent manner so that we can set a course of meaningful economic recovery for all Angelenos. Overcoming these deficits will require new thinking on revenue generation for the City as well as reducing spending. I believe the Chamber leadership can play a critical role in tackling this difficult task with city leadership.

“

“

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As an entrepreneur who has made a payroll for 25 years, my big dream is to launch The Education Success Project this September, which will ask, “What is working in education in California? And, can we encourage robust methods for sharing solutions and adopting these to our own circumstances?” An array of voices from all fronts of education will create a unified approach for increasing best practices and collaboration.

Maureen KindelKindel Gagan

addressed the three transportation and goods movement infrastructure teams. In addition to discussing America Fast Forward and transportation, LaHood talked about a Panama Canal study currently being conducted by the Department of Transportation on the impact of the Canal to cargo movement nationally. At a special briefing, Sen. Barbara Boxer emphasized the importance of transportation reauthorization, noting that it will save 1.8 million jobs and create 1 million new jobs.

Energy and environmental sustainability was another focus of this year’s advocacy agenda. Delegates

participating on those teams had the opportunity to meet with House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Rep. Henry Waxman, who discussed the 10 Million Solar Roofs program and extending the solar tax credit.

During the trip, Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent John Deasy, Board President Mónica García and Chamber Senior VP of Education and Workforce Development David Rattray provided a briefing for Congressional staff members on education reform efforts in Los Angeles, emphasizing the L.A. Compact and other work structured around a theme of shared responsibility. "We are lucky to have the most committed Chamber in the country to help with education reform," García said.

Education team leaders also met with Office of Public Engagement Director Jon Carson at the White House to provide an update on the Chamber's national reform efforts. Carson invited the Chamber to follow up on future collaboration opportunities.

The delegation also focused on issues impacting the regional economy, including global trade, travel and tourism. Delegates not only supported expanding visas for visitors, but also advocated for increased staffing

of TSA and Customs & Border Control at Los Angeles International Airport, which is one of the United States’ largest points of entry for foreign visitors.

Commerce Secretary John Bryson met with the economy teams to discuss his top three priorities — manufacturing, increasing exports and getting U.S. businesses to invest domestically. "The world is moving toward the east, and that's our coast," said Bryson, a native Angeleno.

This year’s delegation included Chamber Board Chair Karen Hathaway, LAACO Ltd./Los Angeles Athletic Club; L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa; Glendale Mayor Laura Friedman; San Fernando Councilmember Sylvia Ballin; President of the Glendale Community College Board of Trustees Anita Gabrielian, AT&T; LAUSD Superintendent Deasy; Board of Education President Mónica García; and Board of Education Members Nury Martinez and Steve Zimmer.

DRIVING JOBS. "The plan is solid, and America Fast Forward or 30/10 should move forward," said Sen. Dianne Feinstein.

Next join us on our ACCESS Sacramento trip to improve the statewide business climate. Meet with Gov. Jerry Brown's administration, State Assembly and Senate leadership to present them with issues vital to Southern California businesses. Register at lachamber.com/accesssacramento or contact Jessica Duboff, 213.580.7558 or [email protected].

U.S. small businesses create more than half of the nonfarm private gross domestic product.page


6

1 2 3

Health Care: Yesterday, Today and TomorrowSpotlight on health care

Scenes from some of the Chamber’s key events in 2012

Chamber Snapshots 1. Chamber members attended the most delectable networking event of the year to sample fare from Chamber member caterers and restaurants at the Annual Taste of the Chamber Mixer in January. Above, Soul Cup Cupcakes takes a break from offering treats for a group photo. 2. More than 1,500 business and civic leaders welcomed 2012 Board Chair Karen Hathaway, LAACO Ltd./Los Angeles Athletic Club, at the Chamber’s 123rd Annual Inaugural Dinner at the JW Marriott at L.A. Live. Many elected officials were in attendance, including Gov. Jerry Brown and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa 3. The Chamber coordinated more than 35 workshops and helped more than 1,000 high school seniors and their parents learn about financial aid opportunities during the 10th annual “Super Saturday” Cash for College Financial Aid Workshops.

s the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and its

Connecting Businesses with Qualified, Pre-screened Workers

Apartners begin the new HIRE LA’s Youth season, past stories of success are beginning to surface not just from the youth involved, but the employers that hired them.

Last year, HIRE LA’s Youth connected more than 5,000 young adults 16-21 years old with entry-level jobs at companies throughout the region, including Kaiser Permanente, Vons, Wells Fargo, AT&T, Warehouse Shoe Sales, Walmart Stores Inc., Ralphs Grocery Company, and others.

“As an employer, working with HIRE LA’s Youth is refreshing … The candidates we get from them are well-trained and ready to work,” said Kathleen McIntire, director of volunteer services for Kaiser Permanente. A long-time supporter of HIRE LA’s Youth, Kaiser regularly looks to the program for summer interns. But they’re not the only ones.

“As one of America's largest employers, it is our responsibility and privilege to help young people in our communities gain work experience and build the critical skills they need to be successful,” said Bryan Moeller, Wells Fargo director of small business banking. “Wells Fargo is proud to support HIRE LA, and we hope other leaders in the business community will join us in contributing to the development of our future workforce.”

HIRE LA’s Youth interns have gone on to have very successful career paths, including Arnoldo Ulloa. After his internship with Wells Fargo, Ulloa was hired by Wells Fargo as a Community Development Officer.

Wells Fargo and Kaiser are just a few of the businesses that have tapped into the qualified and pre-screened pool of candidates from HIRE LA’s Youth. Participants endure a rigorous training program that starts with the Chamber’s Job Skills Workshops. Once candidates complete the workshops, they must prove they are ready and qualify for a Work Readiness Certificate.

Participating businesses become part of a distinguished list of supporters working with Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and the Los Angeles City Council, as well as U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis to support the Summer Jobs+ 2012 campaign.

For more information, contact Maria Dolores Nieto, 213.580.5799 or [email protected].

Focus on HIRE LA’s Youth:

he L.A. Area Chamber has for years been at the forefront of health care advocacy. Now with health care front and center nationally in the form of the Affordable Health Care for America Act (AHCA), the Chamber is more committed than ever to adopting sound health care policies.

“As chair of the Chamber’s Health Care Council, I am proud of the work that the Chamber is doing in the area of health care,” said Gail Margolis, vice president of government, business and community relations for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. “The Chamber has a history of supporting progressive health care legislation. We were among the very first endorsers of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s health care reform, involving business, providers and payers working together to find solutions.”

Below are five strategic health care areas the Chamber will continue to advocate for in the next several years.

Educating Businesses on Controlling Health CareFor many years, the Chamber supported helping businesses manage health care costs and advocated for increased flexibility for small businesses to join together to purchase quality coverage at a more affordable price. The Chamber also opposed measures which would increase premium costs to employers. Depending on the Supreme Court’s ruling on the AHCA, the Chamber will launch a program to link businesses with information on the new rules and guidelines to ease implementation and ensure that the Chamber’s health care priorities are addressed.

T

WellnessThe Chamber has opposed across-the-board cuts to Medi-Cal, lobbied for federal funds to cover costs associated with providing medical care for the undocumented population, and supported tobacco cessation legislation. With state and federal funding challenges to healthcare, the Chamber is committed to promoting wellness centers and supporting implementation in the workplace.

Health Workforce PipelineThe Chamber has supported legislation which called for state-level collaboration between education and business stakeholders as a first step towards developing workable solutions to the critical shortage of health care professionals. The Chamber is also working with the Pew Foundation to expand access to dental health for low-income children.

Sustaining Health CareIn the past five to six years, the Chamber has opposed cuts to medical coverage, lobbied for reforms that would expand coverage, advocated for higher reimbursement rates to doctors and hospitals, and fought to keep hospitals open.

Children’s HealthThe Chamber has a history of addressing children’s health issues by opposing cuts to the State Children’s Health Insurance Program, supporting the establishment of the Healthy Kids Program to provide coverage for uninsured children and advocating for health care coverage for undocumented children. The Chamber will continue to promote business-friendly ways to combat obesity; increase quality oral health access; and focus on health education, exercise and access to fresh products.

The Chamber has been advocating for health care policies in the past, is doing so today and will continue to do so well into the future. Strong health care policy is good for business.

For more information, contact Sonia Campos-Rivera, 213.580.7538 or [email protected]; or David Rattray, 213.580.7515 or [email protected].

California businesses receive help in understanding the federal health care law

The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce has partnered with several California business organizations to launch a first-of-its-kind business-oriented website, healthlawguideforbusiness.org to provide employers with accurate and easy-to-understand information about

for California businesses.” Tailored for the business community, the site will help business owners navigate through all 2,409 pages of the health care law with just one website. Funded by The California Endowment, the site reflects the most significant updates and developments in the process to implement the health care law in California. In 2010, California became the first state in the nation to enact legislation creating an Affordable Insurance Exchange as required under the federal health care law.

In 2014, the California Health Benefit Exchange will allow individuals and small businesses to compare health plans, get answers to questions, find out if they are eligible for tax credits for private insurance or health programs, and enroll in a health plan that meets their needs.

the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

“The Health Law Guide for Business is a practical and fact-driven website that houses the most current information regarding the new health care law," said Dr. Micah Weinberg, senior policy advisor to the Bay Area Council. "It was created by California businesses

Small Business California’s annual survey showed that 48 percent of small businesses think that the quality of public education should be the top priority for elected officials in Sacramento.

L.A. County Population demographics: L.A. County Business demographics

Women ................................. 50.7%

Black ....................................... 8.7%

American Indian and Alaska Native ................. 0.7%Asian persons ........................ 13.7%Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander .......... 0.3%Persons reporting two or more races ......................... 4.5%Hispanic or Latino origin ........................... 47.7%

Women-owned firms .......... 30.2%

Black-owned firms ............. 5.7%American Indian - and Alaska Native-owned firms ............ 1.4%Asian-owned firms .............. 17.5%Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander-owned firms ......................... 0.3%Hispanic-owned firms ........ 21.6%

U.S. Census Bureau, Quickfacts

page

ChamberVOICE

4. Business leaders, including Chamber Boardmember Javier Cano, general manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles and JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. Live, above, reported to the principal’s office in February as part of the 13th annual Principal for a Day event, which connects industry professionals with local school administrators for an exchange of ideas and resources in an effort to build lasting partnerships that benefit students. 5. More than 175 business, civic and labor leaders gathered in the nation’s capital for the annual ACCESS Washingon, D.C.—Los Angeles on the Hill trip to advocate for job creation and to ensure that Los Angeles continues to be a driver in the nation's economic recovery. Left to right above, The Boeing Co. California Government Relations Director Michael Jackson, Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben and U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy. 6. Left to right, Former HIRE LA's Youth intern Derrian William, AT&T; Chamber Board Chair Karen Hathaway; and U.S. Department of Labor Hilda L. Solis at the HIRE LA's Youth Breakfast in April. (Photo courtesy of the Department of Labor)

7

Southern California's economic engines:

4 5 6

Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses

he growing diversity of the American population is Treflected in the increasing diversity of U.S. businesses. According to the last U.S. Census Bureau Survey of Small Business Owners in 2007, the number of minority-owned businesses has increased at more than double the rate of all U.S. businesses. The number of women-owned businesses has also increased — up 20 percent from 2002.

Nowhere is this growing diversity more obvious than in Southern California, which has the highest number of minority-owned businesses in the nation.

“Minority-owned businesses are vital to the economic well-being of Los Angeles, and their continued success stands as a strong testament to the dynamism and diversity that keeps our City going,” said Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa in a statement.

L.A. County has 466,312 minority-owned businesses, accounting for 44.5 percent of the county’s total businesses. The region has the second-highest number of women-owned businesses in the nation, with almost 418,000 women-owned businesses according to a new report from American Express OPEN.

The business community is not yet fully reflective of the population — for instance, the population of L.A. County is 48 percent Hispanic, yet Hispanic business owners represent only 22 percent of total business owners in the County. But the disparity is lessening every year, and many local organizations are working to support and accelerate women’s and minority entrepreneurship.

One such organization, the Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1991 with a vision to serve as an advocate for African American-owned business enterprises and to promote their growth and expansion into the international arena.

Another, NAWBO-LA has a mission to propel women entrepreneurs into economic, social and political spheres of power by strengthening the wealth-creating capacity of its members and promoting economic development; creating effective changes in business culture; building strategic alliances; and transforming public policy.

“We are an organization that approaches the challenges of women business owners systematically and holistically,” said NAWBO-LA CEO Jane Pak. “For more than 30 years our standard operating procedure has been pushing for measurable progress and creating an environment where value is created and captured for the overall economy when women entrepreneurs are involved.”

While the L.A. area is one of the most diverse in the country, California for its part has 1.2 million minority-owned firms, more than a fifth of all minority-owned U.S. businesses and more than any other state. The Golden State also claims the highest number of women-owned businesses in the country, with 1,063,700 women-owned firms, 977,600 employees and $189.5 billion in annual sales.

That’s up from 870,496 firms in 2002 and well ahead of second-place New York, which has 674,200 women-owned businesses.

For more information, contact Mandy Denaux, 213.580.7532 or [email protected].

— Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa

“ “Minority-owned businesses are

vital to the ecomonic well-being

of Los Angeles.

More than

numbersBy the

percent of L.A.’s small businesses are minority- or women-owned.

70

$1.2 trillion

The three states with the largest

number of minority-owned firms

are California (1.2 million), Texas

(723,057) and Florida (680,0a69).

women-owned firms in California, more

than any state.

2007 receipts of U.S. minority-owned firms, a five-year increase of 55 percent compared with the 33 percent increase for all businesses nationwide.

The number of minority-owned businesses in the United States has increased at more than double the rate of all U.S. businesses

minority-owned firms in L.A. County, more

than any other county in the nation.

For most minority groups, the increase in the number of women owners is higher than the increase for men.

new women-owned businesses that were started in the United States last year.

of the nation's businesses are minority-owned.1/5

in revenues were generated by the nation’s 7.8 million women-owned businesses in 2007.

$1 trillion466,312

1,063,700

550 per day

OPEN

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ADVOCACYMove LA10 percent discount for the next 12 months to all our events, including the Transportation Conference 3 in June and the 3rd annual “We Love LA” celebration event in February 2012. Contact Amy Williams, 310.310.2390 or [email protected].

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Member Highlight

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page


8 Without business startups, there would be no net job growth in the U.S. economy.

Seven out of 10 new employer firms survive at least two years, half at least five years, a third at least 10 years, and a quarter stay in business 15 years or more.

Face to face:

House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthyThe L.A. Area Chamber speaks with a civic leader on issues affecting the business community in the L.A. region.

his quarter we spoke with House TMajority Whip Kevin McCarthy about his small business background and how to move California forward.

As a former small business owner, you have firsthand experience with navigating government regulations. How does this inform your actions as House Majority Whip today?

McCarthy: When I started my first business, Kevin O’s Deli, I wasn’t sure where it would take me or how successful I would be. Like all small business owners do, I took a risk on something I believed would become a successful enterprise. My deli taught me what all small business owners know – the work is hard, the hours are long and the margins are thin. More importantly, I learned that government was more often a deterrent to success rather than an aid. Overregulation, tax burdens and limited access to capital made it difficult to expand or hire new workers. Our national unemployment rate has remained above 8 percent for 38 consecutive months. It’s estimated that each year federal regulations sap $1.75 trillion from private sector businesses. Here in California, we’re facing an exodus of businesses and jobs to friendlier business climates—since 2008, California has lost 1.2 million jobs, and just last year an average of 5.4 businesses left the state per week. I know firsthand that if government gets out of the way then America’s budding entrepreneurs will lead our economic comeback.

You worked on The JOBS Act that was signed into law in early April; what is the most important impact that this legislation will have on the more than 325,000 small businesses in the L.A. area?

McCarthy: The JOBS Act reforms and repeals regulations that hold back business startup growth by making it easier for small businesses and entrepreneurs to access needed capital. It includes a provision that I authored and introduced, the Access to Capital for Job Creators Act, which repeals an outdated SEC regulation that restricts small businesses and entrepreneurs from using advertising to raise capital. It also includes several other provisions that ease restrictions on capital formation through “crowdfunding” and IPOs. Our regulatory policies should promote small business and entrepreneurial success – not impede it.

In an economy that has seen a lot of ups and downs in the last few years, how else can legislators provide some stability for the business community?

McCarthy: Regardless of party affiliation, Americans and Californians agree that our number one focus must be on the economy and job creation. A recent survey of small businesses found that 80 percent of small businesses have not hired new workers in the last three months, and 45 percent don’t plan to in the foreseeable future. The survey found that our complicated tax code, a lack of availability of equity capital and skyrocketing energy prices are inhibiting them from hiring. Part of the problem with government is that they are too reactive to the short term – we need to also focus on the long view, which means enacting pro-growth policies that provide certainty to job creators, such as an overhaul of our tax system to simplify the code and reduce the need for annual extensions of expiring tax provisions, an all-of-the-above energy plan that stresses environmentally-respectful energy production so that our nation has a stable source of energy, be it traditional or from alternative fuels, and making the structural budget reforms that attacks our annual budget deficit and allows us to soon begin reducing the national debt.

What advice do you give to small business owners who are frustrated by a feeling that government is out-of-touch with their needs?

McCarthy: I would encourage them to get involved in the process. The frustration I felt when I was a small business owner is what made me get involved in the policymaking process in the first place. Many of my former colleagues in the State Assembly and current colleagues in the House of Representatives started as small business owners. Our experiences in small business have given us a better understanding of the challenges facing our economy and how to best get people back to work. Small business is the engine of job growth in America – and when it comes to growing the economy and getting people back to work; they know best.

In your speech to the Chamber delegation at our ACCESS Washington, D.C. – Los Angeles on the Hill advocacy event in March, you said that “2012 has to be a battle for the size and scope of what we want America to be.” In this partisan climate, how can policymakers better facilitate this type of

— Rep. Kevin McCarthy House Majority Whip

“

“

I know there is a better way forward, and I know that Americans believe in a better way forward. Our focus must be on the growth of our economy and how best we can get people back to work, not on how much bigger we can grow our government.

civil discourse and move the country forward?

McCarthy: We need to encourage honest and vigorous debates on solutions – let’s put our respective policies on the table, and let the best ideas win. What we cannot do is let Washington and Sacramento continue to offer the status quo. The national debt has climbed to over $15 trillion and the unemployment rate continues to hover over 8 percent. I know there is a better way forward, and I know that Americans believe in a better way forward. Our focus must be on the growth of our economy and how best we can get people back to work, not on how much bigger we can grow our government. We’ve tried this – it has not worked. We need to move in a new direction.

What is your dream for California, and what needs to happen in order to make it a reality?

McCarthy: I’ve lived in California all my life – 47 years. I’ve watched this state go from a global economic leader to struggling just to keep up just keep up with other states. Part of the problem is Sacramento has lost sight of the free-market principles that drew individuals with big

dreams to our state, driving the engines of the economic powerhouse we once were. Now, our business climate is regularly ranked at the bottom of almost every national survey – all citing the burdens created by out-of-control regulatory policies and costly tax burdens. If California is going to embark on an economic comeback, we have to address what is holding us back. That begins with creating a more competitive business climate that will foster the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit that has defined our economy.

What can the business community do to help make California the best place in America to do business?

McCarthy: California businesses must continue to do what they’re doing now – innovating and creating new products that open new markets and draw the envy of the world. We must continue to foster the entrepreneurial spirit and competitive drive that has drawn innovators and entrepreneurs from every corner of the globe to California seeking success.

1 Wells Fargo is the #1 SBA 7(a) lender by dollars according to the U.S. Small Business Administration as of September 30, 2011.

2 Based on data from U.S. Small Business Administration, for federal fiscal year 2011.All credit decisions subject to approval. © 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (714741_04867)

SBA Lending Getting the right business financing is key in today’s economy. A Wells Fargo SBA loan is a smart choice, because the low down payment and low monthly payments help you maintain capital and cash flow. If you’re looking to purchase real estate for your business, acquire another business, expand to an additional location, or simply buy equipment or inventory, turn to Wells Fargo SBA Lending to help you do it.

You can be confident in our experience as an SBA lender. In 2011, we approved over a billion dollars in SBA loans to businesses across America — more than any other bank in SBA lending history.2 We’ll use that experience to guide you through the process and make sure you get the financing you need.

Apply for a loan or learn more today. Stop by a Wells Fargo location to talk with a banker, or call 1-800-545-0670 (Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Pacific Time). You can also visit wellsfargo.com/sba.

714741_04867

4.75x7.25

4c

Proud to be America’s #1 SBA lender for the 3rd straight year1

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ChamberVOICE

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In 2009, there were 27.5 million businesses in the United States, according to SBA Office of Advocacy estimates.

An Interview with L.A. District Director Victor Parker

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Bottom-Line Benefits Save up to 50 percent by utilizing the advantages provided by the L.A. Area Chamber and its members.

Find out more at lachamber.com/bottomline. For more information contact Pat Clark, 213.580.7595 or [email protected].

The Chamber has adopted the next generation eCert technology

as our standard to process your Certificates of Origin.

lachamber.com/ecertify.

Certificates of Origin

Chamber members can now “Connect 4 Lunch” to make personal connections with three other members in an intimate lunch setting.lachamber.com/bottomline.

Connect 4 Lunch Los Angeles Area Rx CardAs a resident of L.A. County, you and your family have access to a FREE Discount Prescription Drug Card program. Download and print a Los Angeles Area Rx Card. lachamber.com/rxcard.

Chamber members will receive a free six-month membership with the Employers Group, California's preeminent human resources expert. employersgroup.com/lachamber.

Human Resources Expertise

Office DepotSave up to 65 percent on office supplies from Office Depot, with next-day delivery and convenient ordering by fax, phone or web. www.lachamber.com/bottomline.

The Parking SpotSave 20 percent at both locations of The Parking Spot at Sepulveda and Century. www.lachamber.com/bottomline.

Focus on small business:“What top priority should the Small Business Administration focus on to better support your business?”

We asked small business owners:

Checking in with the Small Business Administration

ast October, California native and former small Lbusiness manager Victor Parker was appointed district director of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Los Angeles District Office. As district director, Parker oversees the delivery of SBA programs and services to aspiring and existing small business owners, SBA lenders and partners in Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. We caught up with him in April to discuss his priorities for the L.A. District Office and his take on the small business community in L.A.

How would you describe the L.A. District’s programs and services to a small business not familiar with SBA’s offerings?The SBA L.A. District Office is here to connect you with the resources you need to operate a successful business. Whether you are in need of financing, want to look into contracting opportunities or need business counseling, the SBA provides a wide array of products and services to help entrepreneurs start, grow and succeed. We give them the tools to move forward.

What is unique about the small business community in L.A.?The Los Angeles metropolitan area is a base for a wide variety of market sectors that offers small businesses many ways to thrive—two large ports for international trade, prominent entertainment industry, a large manufacturing center and a tourism industry. It’s very unique to have such a diverse industry portfolio.

What are you most proud of in your time with SBA so far?It’s been exactly five months since I joined the SBA, and so far I’m really excited about the number of businesses that we’ve been able to provide contracting opportunities to; and that we are currently leading the country in lending to small business. How does your office stay in touch with local small businesses?We get regular feedback from clients via our website and

we keep the public informed about our workshops and other training opportunities by distributing regular e-newsletters—we’re even on Facebook and Twitter! Our outreach and development regularly attend a variety of small business events, and we work closely with local, state and federal elected officials and other leaders throughout the district to make the aware of our efforts.

What are your priorities

“We have worked with small business owners and too few of them carve out time or budget for PR or marketing. I think the SBA, through its business development programs, can help them realize small, sustained ways to reach out to their customers and elevate their business or company’s profile in the community. It’s critical that small business owners make that effort so that they continually reinforce their contribution to the community and their customer base.”

For four years, Mark Morrow worked as a guide for the largest tour company in Los Angeles, when he and his wife, Natcha Morrow,

decided it was time to start their own business. “It was a logical progression to go solo,” says Mark.

Legends of Hollywood Tours, LLC began with Mark’s idea to develop unique, multimedia tours that integrated sound effects, satellite pictures, historical footage and scenes from television shows and movies

Tour Company Offers A Unique Way to See L.A.

moving forward?There are still many businesses seeking capital and it is one of our primary objectives to continue increasing our programs’ capacity to assist businesses with financing. In order to meet the demand for smaller loans, we introduced the Community Advantage loan program and the Small Loan Advantage Program, which will streamline access to loans up to $250,000 and complement our existing SBA microloan program which funds loans up to 50,000. Another focus is outreach to our military and veteran community. For those already residing in our tri-county service area and for those returning home from around the world, our office is ready to deliver the services that will help them feel confident about starting a business. We also want to increase exporting opportunities for small businesses. We want to give businesses the opportunity to reach new markets, increase sales and create jobs through exporting. As I mentioned earlier with the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach here in our district, we want our small businesses to take advantage of exporting opportunities.

Sydney Weisman

Partner

Weisman Hamlin Public Relations

"As the co-chair of the Chamber’s Small Business Owners Roundtable, I often hear that many small businesses face significant obstacles when trying to access capital to grow their businesses, one of which is securing contracts with government agencies at the local, state and federal levels. I see the SBA as an integral hub for connecting

small businesses to the resources they need to succeed. Even working at a local level to create a common registration or qualifying form that would be accepted by all agencies, the SBA would help small businesses save significant time and resources when pursuing government proposals, which would ultimately allow those businesses to focus on securing new capital, developing growth strategies, and implementing brand awareness campaigns."

Make your voice heard! Get involved with the Chamber's Small Business Council or Small Business Owners Roundtable. Visit lachamber.com/small business.

Christina Moses

President

3shades design

for a state-of-the-art sightseeing experience. Natcha worked on the administrative side, and they sought startup help from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Santa Monica College. The SBDC helped the Morrows refine their business plan and connected them with the Valley Economic Development Center and a small loan for marketing materials.

“Our first job was in June 2011,” says Mark. “We got in with the JW Marriott at L.A. Live after they sent me a family to try one day. It went so well that business snowballed.” Now they receive customers from other downtown hotels, including the Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza, and roughly half

of their customers find them from positive internet reviews.

“After this next summer I’m hoping to get another bus and expand to more locations,” says Mark. “Every month we’ve made our expenses, and we are growing. It’s a great little business.”

Visit them online and schedule a tour at legendsofhollywoodtours.com. Legends of Hollywood Tours, LLC has been a Chamber member since 2011.

For more information about SBA programs and services or to find the location of your nearest Small Business Development Center or Women’s Business Center, visit sba.gov.

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Member AnniversariesCongratulations to our renewing members! We greatly appreciate your continued support and involvement. *Circle Level Members are in bold.

Welcome to the ChamberThanks to our new members who joined the Chamber during August, September, October and November. To learn more about Circle Level membership benefits, call 213.580.7592.

Faces of the ChamberMembers talk about why they invest in the L.A. Area Chamber

“The Chamber is critical because it forges key partnerships that reinforce L.A.’s mission to maximize opportunities for small, minority and diverse businesses.”

Denise WilliamsPrincipal Business ConsultantHREngageMember since 2009

I am involved with the Chamber because I can engage as a volunteer, advocate and contributor to small business issues. As a member of the Land Use, Construction & Housing Council and a proud alumnus of Leadership Southern California, I’m given an opportunity to participate in topics that interest me and have direct impact on my development as a leader. The Chamber continues to be an advocate for businesses and individuals who desire to thrive, grow and succeed in the L.A. region.

“The Chamber is a great place to gain insights on the business and culture of L.A., and my regular involvement as a Chamber Ambassador has helped me read upcoming community trends.”

Brett FulmerCorporate RelocationsAmerican Relocation & Logistics, Inc.Member since 1994

Investing time in the Chamber helps you build rapport and relationships across all types of communities. You never know where your next great business partner is going to come from; I have made great contacts at everything from the Chamber’s Referral Network to the Accenture Pancakes & Politics Breakfast Speaker Series.

“The L.A. Area Chamber is a repertoire of relationships. I meet a huge diversity of business leaders, whose collaboration and affiliations are invaluable.”

Lloyd MarinoChief Executive OfficerAVETTA, Inc. Member since 2011

As the CEO of AVETTA, Inc., I rely on my relationships to learn about the diverse industries and personalities that accompany those businesses and to help understand and solve “technology challenges” within them. The Chamber excels in providing exposure to members and events. The collaboration with fellow members provides an excellent platform to build relationships and learn about the complexities and challenges of various industries and how they affect our fellow business leaders.

Of all U.S. small businesses, 52 percent are home-based.

“As a member of the L.A. Area Chamber, I have been exposed to innovative and sound ideas and action, while having a voice in the direction of business in the greater L.A. area.”

Nick PyzowManager of Business DevelopmentCBIZ MHM, LLCMember since 2009

Our goal is to focus on meeting and getting to know people, and then the business will come. With so many options and avenues available to us as L.A. Area Chamber members, I attend a few key events and focus my energy and time towards those on a consistent basis, including Referral Network and being a Chamber Ambassador. Being a Chamber member is social, it’s business and it’s rewarding.

"The key to success in any organization is the people, and the caliber of people at the Chamber is exceptional."

Jodi WalkerPresidentSuccess AlliancesMember since 1999

I have been a member for nearly 13 years. The Chamber has been an excellent resource for growing my business. The most important aspect of being an active member is the quality of the people you meet. Pegi Matsuda was the first person who brought me into the Chamber, and we have remained friends and colleagues throughout the years. My involvement with the Chamber and the Southern California Leadership Network has allowed me to make unique business partnerships that bring me great joy.

GOLDExxonMobilDaymond W. Rice, 310.212.2800PetroleumGenOn Energy-CaliforniaTony Cordero, 909.899.7212Energy Conservation Services & ProductsMcKinsey & Company, Inc.Dr. Elizabeth Stephenson,424.249.1000Consultants/Management

SILVER Shangri-La Construction, LPAndy Meyers, 310.553.7700ConstructionVolt Information Sciences, Inc.Scott Giroux, 714.921.8800Staffing

BRONZE Archer NorrisRichard W. Vanis, Jr., 213.437.4000AttorneysBRC Advisors - Headquarters/ Downtown-LAJames Huang, 213.226.8700Real Estate/Industrial & CommercialChampions - A member of the Knowledge Universe Family Kathleen Schrader, 619.206.8359Education/ServicesCODA ElectricK. Forrest Beanum, 323.557.1400ContainersDale D. SimsDale D. Sims, 310.569.8430IndividualDun & Bradstreet Credibility Corp.Catherine Mangan, 310.919.2201Credit ServicesDavis Insurance Services Seth J. Davis, 818.674.3852Insurance AgentsKMNelson Design, Inc.Kristi Nelson, 310.441.0026Interior Decorators/Design

City of Hope - Medical CenterKristen Pugh, 626.256.8738HospitalsPlayworks Los AngelesDarlene Kiyan, 310.526.8794Community Organizations/Youth ProgramsReis RoboticsGard Van Antwerp, 661.702.0275Manufacturers/ElectronicsRite ProsArvind Mehta, 310.800.9000Consultants/Information TechnologyRuiz StrategiesMichele Ruiz, 310.853.3605ConsultantsThe Peck Law GroupSteven C. Peck, 818.908.0509Attorneys

STANDARDAdwest Mailers, Inc. Frank Grijalva, 818.982.3720Mailing ServicesAquarian Associates, Inc.Verender Bhatia, 877.448.2778ExportersCarrera Lee Enterprises, Inc.Mona Golden, 310.375.6033Training ProgramsCarson InvestigationsSarah J. Carson, 619.468.9186InvestigatorsClientFit Technology ConsultingCalvin Dunn, 866.896.7665Computers/Network & System IntegrationsDial 800Eddie Treizman, 800.342.5800 Marketing and DesignElite Financial ServicesIcilda R. Sanford, 323.574.0114Financial Services/ Retirement PlansEmirates AirlinesTed Brady, 310.414.3250Airlines

Energy CoalitionDavid M. Cohen, 213.213.1960Trade OrganizationsENVIRON International CorporationJoseph W. Hower, 213.943.6300Consultants/EnvironmentalEOS ConsultingSean Arian, 310.737.8379Consultants/EnvironmentalExpense Reduction AnalystsMarylou Garcia, 310.791.5570Consultants/FinancialFamilies In SchoolsRyanne Plaisance, 213.201.3900Community Organizations/ Youth ProgramsGrace Lee InternationalGrace E. Lee, 661.347.6330Consultants/Executive CoachingHand & Nail HarmonyTaylor Daniel, 714.773.9758CosmeticsHandock Cosmetics USACharles Park, 213.389.3355Merchandising/MassHornblower Cruises & Events - Marina del ReyMia Falkenstein, 310.301.6000Facilities/Event VenueJarrow FormulasNicole Russell, 310.204.6936Nutrition & Personal CareJocott Brands, Inc.Joe Millin, 818.902.5537DistributorsK.I.D.S. AKA Keep Individual Dreams Supported, Inc.Dominic Roux, 323.296.0139Community Organizations/ Youth ProgramsKids Only Furniture & AccessoriesKevin Aghayan, 818.841.5544FurnitureKing Taco CateringAlexia Landey-Baeza626.960.7193Caterers

Kogi Group CorporationYoungHo Yoo, 323.315.0253CaterersKTBC ManagementJoon Um, 310.623.4532Real Estate/Property ManagementLos Angeles City College / 10,000 Small BusinessesDr. V. Nenaji Jackson, Ph.D.,323.953.4000Training ProgramsMerchant FactorMegyn E. Bell, 213.347.0101Credit ServicesGrand DestinationsMrs. Yimei Guo, 626.310.1026Travel AgenciesMSC Industrial SupplyLarry R. Palmer, 714.379.6556Industrial SuppliesNew England Financial - Nedda HillNedda Hill, 818.264.0317Financial ServicesOmega World TravelMarlene Sexton, 562.478.8000Travel AgenciesOMWorkspaceMaryhelen Molina, 310.838.9909Furniture/OfficePenners Bergen A Law CorporationAnn Penners Bergen626.463.7361AttorneysPrime Properties - Elizabeth EllisonElizabeth Ellison, 310.741.7175Real Estate/Industrial & CommercialProtect Your Home - ADT Authorized Security DealerRob Williams, 818.483.8969SecurityRandy Fuhrman EventsRandy Fuhrman, 310.854.0155Event Management/ Event Services

RogerJanice L. Walbrink, 213.620.1028Marketing and DesignRoosevelt LoftsStacie Riddle, 213.226.1727ApartmentsSalem PartnersRob Santos, 310.806.4200Investment Services/BankingSilverado Senior Living- Beverly PlaceTerry Fontenrose, 323.852.9200Assisted Living FacilitiesSoul Cup CupcakesCeleste M. Alleyne, 310.907.6428Food ProductsStarside Security & Investigation, Inc.Yvonne Conventry, 909.396.9999Security/Guard SystemsTable Media, LLCPoom Chantha, 818.571.3758Importers & ExportersThe Chaya DowntownZovig Sarkissian, 213.236.9577Restaurants/Full ServiceTrade Division, Consulate General of Pakistan - L.A.Eazaz A. Dar, 310.474.6861Consulate OfficesTudor Trading CompanySharini WickramaSuriya,562.607.3659ImportersVestin PropertiesDaniel Sanchez, 213.400.6252Real Estate/InvestmentsVia Overseas Company, IncElina Way, 310.642.8881ExportersWright Way PoloFrancesca Finato, 760.861.9887Clubs/PrivateZiese Architecture, Inc.Daniel Ziese, 323.275.1340Architecture

95-Year AnniversaryUniversity of Southern California

90-Year AnniversaryC.W. Cole & Company, Inc.

75-Year AnniversaryBeverly Hills Greater Los Angeles

Association of REALTORSLatham & Watkins LLP

70-Year AnniversarySweetener Products Company

55-Year AnniversaryBaker Commodities, Incorporated

45-Year AnniversarySMACNA-LA

25-Year Anniversary Port of Los Angeles

20-Year AnniversarySteward Realty Management Co.

15-Year AnniversaryAssociated General Contractors of

California

10-Year AnniversaryAbram Friedman Occupational CenterCarey National Limousine, LACity of Los Angeles Workforce Investment

BoardConsulate General of Japan in Los

AngelesCorporate Translations, Inc.Domain Technology & Economy

Development, Inc.Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Hughes Hubbard & Reed, LLPLend LeasePillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLPThe "People" Project PersonThomas Properties Group, Inc.UMDSUniversal Reprographics, Inc.

5-Year AnniversaryAmerican Diabetes AssociationAmerican United International GroupCenter for International Trade

Development-El Camino CollegeConnolly Bove Lodge & Hutz LLPGo Green GardenersHolme Roberts & Owen LLPHolthouse Carlin & Van Tright LLP

(HCVT), Long BeachLos Angeles County Department of

Public Health

Los Angeles Federal Credit Union-Headquarters

Los Angeles Universal PreschoolMicrosoft CorporationNewleaf Training & DevelopmentRaw InspirationStuart M. Ketchum Downtown YMCASuperconductor EnergyThe Salvation Army, Los Angeles Area

Command

1-Year AnniversaryADPI IntermedixBanerjee & AssociatesBark AvenueBe Structured Technology Group, Inc.BreitBurn Management Company, LLCChamber Marketing Partners, LLCFoundation for Special People

German American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

Global Business SolutionsJewish Community Foundation of Los

AngelesLincoln Property CompanyLockton Insurance Brokers, LLCLollipop S.A. de C.V.Markex GlobalNatural History Museum of Los

Angeles CountyPUENTE Learning CenterSanta Monica CollegeSecretariat InternationalSnell & Wilmer LLPThe Law Offices of Claudia RodriguezTotal Care Dental and OrthodonticsVisa Inc.Walmart Stores, Inc.

350 S. Bixel St., Los Angeles, California 90017213.580.7500 | Fax 213.580.7511lachamber.com

Our MissionBy being the voice of business, helping its members grow and promoting collaboration, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce seeks full prosperity for the Los Angeles region.

Diamond ClubThe Chamber gratefully acknowledges the support of our largest member investors, the Diamond Club, for their help in fulfilling the Chamber’s mission.

AT&TAutomobile Club of Southern CaliforniaBank of AmericaChevron CorporationClear Channel Outdoor, Inc.JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.Kaiser PermanenteMajestic Realty Co.Microsoft CorporationOccidental Petroleum Corp.Port of Los AngelesRalphs Grocery CompanySiemens CorporationSouthern California EdisonSouthern California Gas Company, a Sempra Energy utilitySouthwest Airlines Co.Time Warner CableToyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.UPSVerizonThe Walt Disney CompanyWells Fargo

Be a part of the L.A. Area Chamber’s signature events by becoming a sponsor.

Different sponsorship levels are available. Contact Lee Ligons, 213.580.7523 or [email protected].

ACCESS Sacramento | MAY 22-23

Small Business Awards | JUNE 13

Los Angeles is betting on clean technology as a major driver of the city’s growth strategy for the 21st century.

At UCLA CLeAn teChnoLogy is serioUs BUsiness

ucla.edu

At UCLA, we’re proud to be a founding partner—and a driving force—in CleanTech Los Angeles.

CleanTech LA aligns businesses and govern-ment with our city’s academic institutions to achieve ambitious goals: We’re working together to foster investment in green business, harness our wealth of intellectual capital and promote L.A. around the world as the hub of the clean tech revolution.

Already, six cutting-edge firms have joined the Los Angeles CleanTech Incubator, a center that nurtures green-energy startups.

We’re passionate about spurring serious, sustainable economic growth in the city we call home. And we think the future looks bright. Bright green, even.

Learn more about CleanTech LA at cleantechlosangeles.org.

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Small businesses made up 97.5 percent of all identified exporters and produced 31 percent of export value in FY 2008.

VOICE Spring 2012

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Transcript of VOICE Spring 2012