Black Caucus Urges Businesses to Secure Contracts Ahead of 2028 LA Olympic Games

As Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, state leaders are encouraging Black-owned and minority businesses to position themselves for the economic opportunities ahead.

Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) is leading efforts to ensure that local businesses understand how to access contracts tied to the Games, which are expected to generate billions in economic activity.

A Moment of Recognition

At the California State Capitol, Olympic gold medalist Janet Evans, now Chief Athlete Officer for the LA28 Organizing Committee, recently honored Arnie Sowell Sr. with an LA28 Olympic hoodie for his 91st birthday.

Sowell represented the United States in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, finishing fourth in the 800-meter final, making the moment both celebratory and symbolic of the legacy of athletes connected to the Games.

Billions in Economic Opportunity

McKinnor emphasized the financial potential tied to the Games, noting that local businesses must act now to secure opportunities.

“There is a lot of money to be made,” she said.

The LA28 Organizing Committee has committed to directing 25% of its procurement spending to small businesses, with 75% of contracts staying within the Greater Los Angeles region.

The Games themselves will take place from July 14 to July 30, 2028, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 15 to August 27, 2028.

Preparing Businesses for Participation

During a joint meeting of the Assembly Select Committee on the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the Assembly Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism, LA28 leadership outlined plans to engage local businesses.

Reynold Hoover, CEO of LA28, and Janet Evans shared updates, while Paul Krekorian of the Los Angeles Office of Major Events discussed local coordination efforts.

The procurement strategy includes opportunities for hyper-local and micro-small businesses across various service areas, including:

• Laundry services
• Landscaping
• Catering and food services
• Event support and logistics

The Importance of Certification

McKinnor stressed that certification will be critical for businesses seeking contracts.

“Get your paperwork ready. You cannot be a business running your business out of your house. You must be certified.”

Businesses are encouraged to register through the LA28 supplier portal and connect with local chambers of commerce to navigate the procurement process.

Equity and Inclusion Efforts

The NAACP Los Angeles is working alongside LA28 to ensure equitable access to opportunities for Black-owned and minority businesses.

The organization is advocating for inclusive procurement practices and workforce representation, helping ensure that the economic benefits of the Games reach local communities.

LA28 has also developed a supplier diversity program to contract with minority-, women-, LGBTQ+, and veteran-owned businesses.

Community Engagement and Support

Local initiatives are already underway to connect businesses with opportunities. In January, Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas hosted the LA28 Games Workforce and Procurement Symposium, bringing together business leaders and organizers.

“This event shows what’s possible when our community is included early and treated as a valuable partner,” Smallwood-Cuevas said.

Market Street in downtown Inglewood remains a historic hub for Black-owned businesses, many of which are well-positioned to benefit from increased demand tied to the Games.

Looking Ahead

With an estimated $11 billion economic impact, the 2028 Olympics present a significant opportunity for local entrepreneurs.

Officials are encouraging businesses to act early—by securing certifications, building relationships, and preparing to compete for contracts.

For more information on procurement opportunities, businesses can visit RAMP LA and explore additional local resources.