The City of Long Beach and Vice Mayor Rex Richardson will host a daylong summit on Thursday, May 17 at the Long Beach Convention Center to discuss economic inclusion and introduce new ways to build a more inclusive economy.

In partnership with the Los Angeles Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LA LISC), the ‘Everyone In’ Economic Equity Summit will bring together local business leaders, community leaders, policymakers and philanthropic partners to discuss strategies that advance economic equity, according to city officials.

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“This groundbreaking initiative gives us an opportunity to place a laser focus on providing economic opportunity to all corners of our city,” Richardson said in a statement. “Economic inclusion is a smarter proposition for our city; it means that everyone benefits, and everyone has a seat at the table.”

Richardson will co-host the event along with the city’s Economic Development Department. The event will also culminate the progress made by the city since the city council announced an economic inclusion initiative last November.

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Topics will cover strengthening entrepreneurship and small businesses in diverse communities, financial inclusion and access, pathways to homeownership, fostering equity in new and emerging industries, approaching transit-oriented development with an equity lens and developing the next generation of leaders.

Keynote speakers include author and USC Professor Dr. Manuel Pastor and Google’s Global Executive Valeisha Butterfield Jones.

Local marketing consulting company Wilson & Associates will also be attending to present findings from the ‘Everyone In’ Listening Tour, a series of focus groups with underrepresented communities. PolicyLink, a research institute, will also present findings from the Economic Equity Profile, a study funded by Citi Community Development that serves as a basis for ongoing dialogue about the economic challenges and opportunities facing Long Beach communities.

A plenary panel discussion will also be included for attendees who can listen to experts from around the county on how economic inclusion practices are benefitting their communities. Attendees can also participate in a series of breakout sessions on increasing local and inclusive procurement, workforce development, alternative models of business and homeownership, and youth leadership development.

The event will take place from 8:30AM to 4:00PM. Register for free event tickets here.

The Long Beach Convention Center is located at 300 East Ocean Boulevard.