Business Enterprise Incubator

The  LACC Business Enterprise Incubator, launched in Spring 2024, focuses on empowering undocumented entrepreneurs by integrating tailored entrepreneurship education with vital support services. This innovative initiative, a collaboration between LACC’s Noncredit and Adult Education departments, the Dream Resource Center, and the Office of Economic Development & Workforce Education, equips students with the skills needed for all stages of small business development. Our program emphasizes economic mobility and social integration, providing undocumented students with a pathway to entrepreneurship that circumvents traditional employment barriers.

We partnered with industry professionals and undocumented entrepreneur mentors, including support from outside organizations like Trending Socials LLC, Undocu-Scholars LLC, and Novella LLC. Participants gained hands-on experience and guidance in critical areas, such as establishing ITINs and mental health first aid, both essential for undocumented business owners. The program concluded with a Shark-Tank-style Pitch Fest, where participants showcased their business ideas for a chance to win micro-grants. In the Summer, 12 entrepreneurs participated, each winning a $300 micro-grant to jumpstart their businesses.

Graduates of the program earned two noncredit certificates, highlighting their proficiency in entrepreneurship and business management. The program also featured unique collaborations; for example, LACC Graphic Design students created professional logos and mockups for the entrepreneurship students, providing valuable branding resources.

This incubator has had a profound impact on students, significantly enhancing their entrepreneurial skills and economic prospects. Many participants have already launched successful businesses, while others are actively preparing to start. End-of-program surveys revealed:

• 100% of participants were highly enthusiastic about starting their businesses, with over 90% feeling “Extremely” or “Moderately confident” in their entrepreneurial abilities.
• Every participant highlighted the program's strong sense of community, with mentorship and peer support helping to boost their business skills and confidence.
• 95% of participants reported a high familiarity with business startup processes, which directly contributed to their readiness to launch.

One student shared, “I am very grateful LACC provided this course because it shows that we do have opportunities even as undocumented students.” Another noted, “It was such an inspiring event, and I feel empowered more than ever before.” The incubator has proven to be a transformative experience, building confidence, competence, and a support network for undocumented entrepreneurs

In 2025, the LACC Business Enterprise Incubator continued to grow through three successful cohorts: winter for Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs, spring for English-speaking entrepreneurs, and summer for immigrant entrepreneurs. Each cohort was tailored to meet the needs of its participants while keeping undocumented entrepreneurs at the center of our work. 

Despite the challenges caused by the ICE Raids in Los Angeles, we shifted to a virtual Summer Pitch Event, where 12 entrepreneurs each received $300 micro-grants to launch their businesses. 

Earlier in the year, our Winter Cohort students proudly represented LACC at the Spring Financial Wellness Summit hosted by the Office of Economic Development and Workforce Education, where they showcased their ventures and connected with community partners. Three students were awarded $150 for their Pitch and business launch.

To continue expanding student support and collaboration, we invited two additional faculty members to teach courses within the incubator, helping students build a stronger professional network and learn from multiple perspectives. 

This year, our work was also recognized by Councilwoman Nury Martinez for building a successful and sustainable program that uplifts undocumented entrepreneurs. 

In addition, our Summer students were honored with certificates of recognition from Mayor Karen Bass for their creativity and resilience.

Finally, we’ve also applied for new grant funding to help sustain and grow the program in the years ahead. Our team continues to work closely with the EWDE office to secure ongoing Strong Workforce support, ensuring that the incubator remains a space where students gain access, opportunity, and confidence to build their businesses and futures.