CIELO

Our Community Is Facing a Critical Moment

Across Orange County and Los Angeles,  entrepreneurs are navigating an increasingly difficult environment marked by financial insecurity, fear, and isolation. Many of the small business owners who power our local economy are facing challenges beyond their control , from declining income and canceled work opportunities to barriers accessing traditional financial relief.

In August 2025, CIELO surveyed 118 entrepreneurs in our community to better understand what they are experiencing. The results were alarming.

85% reported that their businesses are being directly impacted.

Entrepreneurs shared that they are experiencing:

• Loss of household income

• Interrupted business operations

• Housing and rent instability

• Emotional and mental health strain

• Increased caregiving responsibilities

For many families, the most urgent needs are basic necessities:

• 60% need support paying rent or housing costs

• 36% need help covering utilities

• 30% need assistance with food and basic essentials

On the business side, the most urgent needs include:

• Emergency funding or grants

• Marketing and outreach support

• Technology and equipment to keep operating

These numbers represent real people, entrepreneurs who are working tirelessly to support their families and communities.

One business owner shared:
"Our income has decreased by almost 50%, and we have faced financial and food difficulties."

Another shared:
"My emotional health has been very affected… being isolated and afraid to go out and work."

These stories are not isolated; they reflect a widespread crisis impacting the small business community.

For The Future is Working Giving Day, we are raising:

$20,000 to fund the next round of the Community Relief Fund.

Thanks to our generous donors, Jacob Rael & Elia Perez-Sanchez, the first $5,000 will be matched, doubling the impact of every gift.

Your donation will help provide:

• Emergency relief grants

• Technology like laptops for business operations

Every dollar goes directly toward supporting entrepreneurs who are working hard to keep their businesses alive and their families stable.