UPDATE: The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) is urgently seeking marketing agencies to champion a groundbreaking initiative to promote employee and worker ownership. This announcement, made today, opens the door for innovative agencies to apply for a contract that could bring up to $400,000 into the mix, aimed at fostering economic inclusivity across the region.
Applications are due by January 30, 2026, at 12 PM PT. This initiative, known as the Employee and Worker Ownership Initiative (EWOI), was introduced by Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath in September 2023, marking a significant shift towards building a more equitable economy in LA County.
This initiative is designed to enhance business resilience, improve job quality, and create wealth-building opportunities, particularly in historically underserved communities. The DEO is on the lookout for a marketing partner that can effectively communicate the benefits of shared ownership models to businesses, workers, and various stakeholders throughout the county.
The chosen agency will be tasked with implementing a comprehensive marketing and outreach strategy, including crafting engaging messaging and creative content, and conducting multilingual communications to bridge language gaps. They will also be responsible for organizing informational events and grassroots outreach to increase program participation and facilitate the transition of graduates into these new business models.
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a minimum of three years of experience in developing similar campaigns and provide services in both English and Spanish. The DEO expects to release an addendum with a Q&A by January 20, 2026, offering further insights into the application process.
This initiative is part of DEO’s broader vision for creating quality jobs and supporting small businesses. The anticipated contract will run from March 2026 to June 2027, with the aim of driving inclusive economic growth and opportunity for all residents of Los Angeles County.
For those interested in learning more or keeping up with the latest developments, follow @EconOppLA on social media platforms or visit opportunity.lacounty.gov for additional resources and updates. The DEO is committed to transforming the economic landscape of LA County, ensuring that everyone has a chance to thrive.
