El Monte and South El Monte have earned a place among Los Angeles County’s communities recognized for supporting local enterprise. The Business-Friendly Cities recognition names both as finalists for a prestigious countywide economic development award.
The Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation named the neighboring cities finalists for its 2026 Most Business-Friendly City Award. The honor recognizes cities working to help businesses start, grow and invest while strengthening opportunities for their communities.
For the San Gabriel Valley, having two neighboring cities reach the finalist stage gives local residents and business owners something worth celebrating. It also puts a regional spotlight on efforts taking place close to home.
Business-Friendly Cities Support Local Growth
South El Monte is one of seven finalists in the small-city category. LAEDC cited its expedited approvals, business ombudsman support and connections to regional resources. The city’s Economic Development Division also assists companies seeking to start, expand or relocate in South El Monte.
Those efforts can make a difference for entrepreneurs navigating permits, regulations and other requirements while trying to open or expand a business.
El Monte is competing among seven large-city finalists. LAEDC recognized the city for modernized zoning, digital permitting and its Business Resource Center. The center supports entrepreneurs with information on registration, permits, licenses, taxes and other resources.
The city describes its Business Resource Center as a place where entrepreneurs can find guidance from startup through expansion. That approach gives local business owners a central point for navigating city services.
Residents and entrepreneurs can learn more through the El Monte Business Resource Center.
A Countywide Measure Of Business Support
An independent LAEDC Blue-Ribbon Committee evaluated applications in five equally weighted areas. Those areas included each city’s overall business-friendly approach and support for existing businesses.
Judges also reviewed strategies for attracting new businesses, regional economic partnerships and efforts to reduce red tape. The committee considered each community’s size, resources and organizational capacity when reviewing applications.
That structure placed El Monte and South El Monte in separate categories while recognizing the work each city has pursued within its own circumstances.
For local businesses, the finalist selections offer recognition beyond city boundaries. They highlight the role that responsive city services can play in supporting entrepreneurs, employers and future investment.
Business-Friendly Cities Await November Honors
The Business-Friendly Cities recognition remains at the finalist stage. LAEDC has not selected the two award recipients.
The organization will announce the 2026 honorees Nov. 4 during its 31st annual EDDY Awards at the Rose Bowl. The event brings together leaders from business, government, education, labor and community organizations from across Los Angeles County.
Whatever the final results, El Monte and South El Monte have already earned countywide recognition for their economic development efforts. For two neighboring San Gabriel Valley communities to stand among 14 finalists is a shared achievement and a welcome moment of local pride.
