La Mesa Businesses Can Apply for LEAP Forward Support Through August 15
La Mesa businesses have until August 15, 2026, to apply for the fourth cohort of LEAP Forward, a program limited to 10 established, for-profit businesses operating within incorporated La Mesa.
Applications opened July 15. Selected participants will receive free technical assistance, one-on-one advising and business training through a partnership involving the City of La Mesa, the East County Economic Development Council and the San Diego & Imperial SBDC Network.
Program targets established businesses
LEAP Forward is the relaunched La Mesa Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program. The fourth cohort is intended for existing businesses that have operated within incorporated La Mesa for at least one year.
The opportunity is an application and selection process. Applying does not guarantee admission, and the published program information describes technical assistance, advising and training—not a cash grant or direct cash payment.
Who can generally apply
According to the East County Economic Development Council, generally eligible applicants must be at least 21 years old, reside in San Diego County and own and operate a for-profit business within the incorporated City of La Mesa.
Applicants must also generally have fewer than 20 employees and hold a valid La Mesa business license or equivalent. The business must have been open for at least one year. Nonprofit organizations are not eligible under the published program information.
Previous LEAP participants may be considered for the fourth cohort on a case-by-case basis, according to the program’s frequently asked questions.
Selected businesses must complete training
Each selected participant must complete four San Diego & Imperial SBDC training classes and three individual advising sessions. Participants are also expected to register with the SBDC, complete course materials and finish assignments provided by an adviser.
The training courses will be offered in person from September through November, and attendance is mandatory. The program administrator says make-up sessions will not be available. Participants in the fourth cohort are expected to complete the program by December 31, 2026.
Deadline is August 15
La Mesa businesses that meet the stated criteria must submit applications by August 15. The East County Economic Development Council says its staff will review and analyze applications as part of the admission process.
Applicants should confirm the current requirements, application instructions and submission details with the City of La Mesa or East County Economic Development Council before applying.
Sources
Discover more from Interactive News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
