LEEAF’s

Welcome to the LEEAF Entrepreneurial Academy, where ambition meets opportunity in the heart of Los Angeles County! LEEAF uplifts entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities by providing comprehensive support and leveling the playing field. Powered by LA County's Economic Mobility Initiative, our academy is a beacon for those ready to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into impactful realities.

Entrepreneurial Academy

How it Works


Immersive Learning, Real-World Application

At LEEAF, we champion “learning by doing”. Our entrepreneurial education is rooted in experiential, project-based learning tailored to make a tangible impact. Each month, Academy participants dive deep into essential business theories and concepts, then swiftly apply these insights to real-world scenarios. This dynamic approach ensures that every learning moment is directly relevant to their business growth.

Participants benefit from the personalized support of our Growth Facilitators, dedicated one-on-one sessions with industry expert Resident Advisors, and the hands-on assistance of team of business and creative consultants. Together, they provide continuous guidance and expert feedback, helping each entrepreneur optimize their business strategies and outcomes.

Our Entrepreneurial toolbox

Joining the LEEAF Entrepreneurial Academy means access to an all-inclusive set of resources designed to foster growth and enable success:

  • All-in-One Support: From foundational training to advanced business strategies, we equip you with the tools to thrive.

  • Wealth-Building Opportunities: Connect with avenues that not only grow your business but also build lasting economic wealth.

  • Expert Guidance and Personalized Support: Our dedicated team offers tailored advice, technical assistance, and continuous mentorship.

  • Access to Capital and More: We help bridge the gap between your needs and the resources necessary to fulfill them, including access to capital.

  • Skills for Now and the Future: Acquire crucial knowledge on business fundamentals, digital marketing, legal considerations, and more.

Every participant graduates equipped with foundational skills, vital concepts, and essential tools—from our entrepreneurial toolbox to yours.

We're not just nurturing businesses; we're cultivating a community of forward-thinking entrepreneurs ready to make a difference. Join us, and let’s grow together.

Program Timeline

Submit a LEEAF interest form

GET CONNECTED

Start a conversation with our Growth Facilitators

GETTING STARTED

Attended your first in-person, online, or hybrid sessions

BUILD YOUR SKILLS

Work on deliverables with your Resident Advisor

GRADUATE

Complete program requirements

Our Courses

Marketing

  • What to expect:

    • Understand marketing integration, competitive advantage, and business uniqueness

    • Learn the Four P's of marketing and business marketing funnels

    • Identify marketing channels and set SMART marketing goals

  • What to expect:

    • Understand why branding is important

    • Create a brand look, message, and brand kit

    • Start a social media presence with a content plan and basic startup kit

  • What to expect:

    • Understand why branding is important

    • Create a brand look, message, and brand kit

    • Start a social media presence with a content plan and basic startup kit

  • What to expect:

    • Segment your target market and analyze current marketing trends

    • Identify your ideal customer and create a customer profile

    • Understand the buyer’s journey and integrate it with your marketing funnel

  • What to expect:

    • Learn about digital marketing importance and strategy development

    • Understand and track key performance indicators (KPIs)

    • Create and execute a digital mini-campaign using diverse marketing tools

Finance

  • What to expect:

    • Define your business model and analyze costs

    • Learn about corporate structures and incorporate your business

    • Apply for an EIN and open a business bank account

  • What to expect:

    • Define revenue lines and set up accounting software

    • Understand financial projections and generate income statements

    • Obtain permits/licenses (if applicable) and set up a POS system.

Tech & Ops

  • What to expect:

    • Understand entrepreneurial characteristics and mindset

    • Collaboratively create a strategic business model to maximize revenue

    • Learn to leverage all components of your business model

  • What to expect:

    • Create or update your vision and mission statements

    • Develop a comprehensive business plan

  • What to expect:

    • Establish essential business contact points online (phone number, email)

    • Utilize technology effectively to streamline business operations

    • Create standardized operating procedures

Want to learn more?