La Mesa Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program (LEAP) Forward

The City of La Mesa, in partnership with the East County Economic Development Council, is pleased to bring back the La Mesa Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program (LEAP). The LEAP program provides technical assistance and development support to 10 La Mesa businesses. The program is open to for-profit businesses located within the incorporated City of La Mesa that have been open for at least a year. Participating businesses will be required to attend individualized advising sessions and business courses.

Applications will close on August 15, 2026.

Application

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    FAQ'S

    LEAP FAQ’s:

    What is the LEAP program?

    The La Mesa Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program (LEAP) is a partnership between the City of La Mesa, the East County EDC, and the San Diego & Imperial SBDC Network. The LEAP program provides technical assistance and development support to 10 La Mesa businesses. The program is open to for-profit businesses located within the incorporated City of La Mesa that have been open for at least a year. Participating businesses will be required to attend individualized advising sessions and business courses.

    What are the eligibility requirements for the LEAP program?

    To be eligible for the LEAP program, you must be:

    • at least 21 years old
    • a resident of San Diego County
     • Own and operate a business within the incorporated City of La Mesa.
     • Less than 20 employees
     • Have a valid La Mesa Business license or the equivalent.

    How long does it normally take to fill out the application?

    The time necessary to complete each answer will vary by individual.

    What is the process for being admitted into the LEAP program?

    Entrepreneurs wishing to be accepted into the LEAP program must complete the LEAP application. The LEAP application is available on the East County Economic Development Council Website. LEAP Program – East County Economic Development Center (eastcountyedc.org). Applications will be reviewed and analyzed by the ECEDC staff.

    I was selected for the LEAP program, what happens next?

    Each entrepreneur is required to complete four SBDC training classes and three one-on-one advisory sessions. In addition to these requirements, applicants will be expected to register with the SBDC, complete all SBDC course materials, and complete any advisor-assigned homework assignments.

    Will the classes be offered online?

    LEAP training courses are offered in-person and attendance is mandatory. Classes will be offered from September to November, and make-up sessions will not be available.

    How much time will it take to complete the program?

    Participants accepted into the 4th Cohort of LEAP will be expected to complete the program by December 31, 2026.

    I am an entrepreneur looking to start a business in the City of La Mesa. Am I eligible for the LEAP  program?

    While LEAP Cohort One and Two targeted entrepreneurial business start-ups, LEAP Cohort Four is targeted at existing businesses in the incorporated City of La Mesa that have been in business for at least one year. The business must also hold a current La Mesa business license or the equivalent.

    My business is a nonprofit, can I apply for LEAP?

    Unfortunately, non-profits are not eligible for the LEAP program.

    I participated in LEAP Cohort One, Two, or Three. Am I eligible for Cohort 4?

    Yes! Former LEAP participants are eligible for LEAP Cohort 4 and will be accepted on a case-by-case basis.