TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute all necessary documents to receive and expend proceeds from the U.S. Small Business Administration in the amount of $50,000, for the express purpose of participation in the Start-Up in a Day Prize Competition, of which Long Beach is an award winner; and
Increase appropriations in the General Grants Fund (SR 120) in the City Manager Department (CM) by $50,000. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
In August 2015, the City of Long Beach was selected by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) as a “Start Small” Start-up in a Day (Competition), $50,000 prize winner. The SBA announced the 2015 Competition, pursuant to the America Competes Act, to spur the development, implementation, and improvement of online tools that will let entrepreneurs learn about the business start-up process in their area, including how to register and apply for all required local licenses and permits, all in one day or less.
The City’s Innovation Team (i-team), in the Office of the City Manager, will work with City departments to carry out the scope of the agreements with the SBA and its partners. This includes outreach to small business owners and business associations, research of best practices, and design sessions to build online tools that accelerate the business start-up and growth process. On August 11, 2015, the City Council approved the engagement of Code for America to assist with the construction of online tools for businesses. SBA prize funds may be used to assists with this project.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Amy Webber on September 10, 2015 and by Budget Management Officer Victoria Bell on September 15, 2015.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on October 6, 2015 to allow for the receipt and expense of SBA funds. SBA requires all documents to be executed before prize funds are disbursed to award cities.
FISCAL IMPACT
The City will receive $50,000 from SBA to offset costs for...
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