Glendale Celebrates and Supports Local Businesses at 4th Annual “Let’s Grow Glendale!” Small Business Summit

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 18, 2026

Economic Development Contact: Jennifer Coronado

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (818) 548-2005

City Media Contact: Communications and Community Relations
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (818) 548-3342

Glendale Celebrates and Supports Local Businesses at 4th Annual

"Let's Grow Glendale!" Small Business Summit

Glendale, CA - Underscoring the immense need for small business support, the City of Glendale welcomed over 500 registered attendees to its annual Small Business Summit "Let's Grow Glendale!" held on May 14 at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Glendale.

Now in its fourth year, the event featured expert-led presentations and over 20 exhibitors from industries such as banking, marketing, and legal services, and more. Throughout the day, attendees had opportunities to network, exchange ideas, and build meaningful connections, culminating in a closing celebration focused on collaboration within Glendale's entrepreneurial community.

"Glendale has been a place where businesses put down roots and grow, from family-owned storefronts that have served generations to new entrepreneurs bringing fresh ideas to our city," said Mayor Ardy Kassakhian. "The Small Business Summit continues that tradition by connecting business owners with practical resources, expert guidance, and the relationships that help businesses succeed in Glendale."

Designed to support businesses at various stages of growth, the Summit's breakout sessions provided attendees with practical tools, insights, and strategies. Sessions included Access to Capital: Strategies for Growth and Funding Success, AI for Main Street: Your First 3 Steps to Smarter Business, People First Marketing: Connections that Convert, and Certified for Success: Procurement & Winning Government Contracts.

"Among our many competitive advantages, Glendale was named the Most Business-Friendly City in Los Angeles County and events like this show exactly why. This City doesn't just talk about supporting businesses, we show up", said Soua Vang, Deputy Director of Economic Development.

The success of the 2026 "Let's Grow Glendale!" Small Business Summit was made possible through the support of its Premier Sponsor, Kaiser Permanente, Platinum Sponsor, Glendale Community College Professional Development Center (PDC), and Gold Sponsors.

For those who couldn't join or for attendees who want to relive the summit that captured the collaboration, insights and energy that defined this year's Small Business Summit access the image gallery here.

Summit attendees are invited to complete a brief post-event survey for a chance to win two Los Angeles Dodgers tickets, courtesy of Professional Sports Publications. To be eligible, the survey must be completed no later than Wednesday, May 20, 2026, and is available at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/V2TSKY5.

In addition to the Small Business Summit, the City of Glendale offers a range of resources to support its small business community, including a no-cost Human Resources Hotline, free business resource webinars, and a step-by-step guide to doing business in the city.

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About Economic Development: Glendale is one of the largest cities in Los Angeles County, with a population nearly 200,000. Glendale is a thriving cosmopolitan city that is rich in history, culturally diverse, and a bustling downtown that is home to many corporate headquarters and tech giants, two first-class regional shopping malls, and a walkable Arts & Entertainment District with endless fine dining opportunities. Visit ChooseGlendaleCA.com for more information about Economic Development in Glendale or connect on X, Instagram, and Facebook @ChooseGlendale.

About Glendale: Known as the "Jewel City," Glendale is the fourth largest city of Los Angeles County. With a population of almost 200,000, Glendale is a thriving cosmopolitan city that is rich in history, culturally diverse, and offers nearly 50 public parks & facilities, with easy access to a municipal airport. It is the home to a vibrant business community, with major companies in healthcare, entertainment, manufacturing, retail, and banking. Visit GlendaleCA.gov for more information and follow us on social media @MyGlendale.