This pandemic has been with us for over half a year. And though the mask wearing and social distancing have become a part of everyday life, small businesses – especially those in historically marginalized communities – are still feeling the impact of COVID-19 just as intensely as when it first began. Business owners may be settling into this new normal, but it begs the question: what is the best way to promote resilience in our communities right now, in a way that is sustainable and provides for people struggling in the current moment? Today, we’re hoping to answer some of those questions through the frame of economic development and community investment.

In this episode of the Changemakers LA podcast, we meet with leaders with firsthand experience in the community development field during COVID-19 and beyond.

Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:

- Mikaela Randolph, the board president of SoLA Food Co-op, a community owned grocery business

- Mary Lee, the former Deputy Director of PolicyLink

- Robert Lewis, the President of the Black Cooperative Investment Fund

In this episode we explore:

- How small minority-owned businesses can promote thriving local economies

- How and why gentrification impact small businesses, especially in LA and especially during COVID-19

- How the pandemic will impact business and community development in the years to come, specifically in LA

This episode of the Changemakers LA Podcast was made possible by our partner, JP Morgan Chase. To learn more about our community investment and small business investment programs, visit our website at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles