Small businesses in Malibu and Topanga are getting a much-needed boost thanks to a new $250,000 grant program launched by Los Angeles County. Designed to help local entrepreneurs recover from the economic strain caused by wildfire-related road closures, the Malibu–Topanga Business Interruption Fund offers grants of up to $20,000 to eligible businesses. The initiative reflects a growing commitment to support the resilience of these tight-knit communities as they rebuild and move forward.
“Our local small businesses aren’t just surviving challenges — they’re shaping the comeback story of Malibu and Topanga,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath in a statement. “This fund is about fueling that momentum and making sure every business has a real chance to grow, succeed, and keep these communities moving forward. Six months after the wildfires, we’re not just rebuilding — we’re building a stronger future together.”
Backed by discretionary funds from Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, the program is run by the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity with help from AidKit. Local businesses in Malibu and Topanga can apply for grants between $10,000 and $20,000. Applications are open now and will close on August 22, 2025, at 5 p.m. Award notifications will be issued in the fall. The goal is to help cover losses from weeks of reduced customer traffic during the long closures of Pacific Coast Highway and Topanga Canyon Boulevard during the Palisades wildfires.
How to qualify for the Malibu–Topanga Business Interruption Fund
In order to qualify, local businesses must:
- Be located in Malibu (90265) or Topanga (90290)
- Employ 100 or fewer workers
- Earn no more than $6 million in annual gross revenue
- Be a storefront business where customers physically come to transact business (some qualifying home-based businesses that require in-person clients, such as daycares, may also apply)
- Have been operating in California before January 1, 2025
- Be active and in good standing with all required tax and business licenses
Priority will be given to businesses that have not previously received financial assistance from the City of Malibu or LA County grant programs.
Apply and learn more about the Malibu-Topanga Business Interruption Fund here.