Monterey Park, CA — April 17, 2026 — East Los Angeles College (ELAC) today celebrated the grand opening of the Susan Rubio Entrepreneurship & Innovation Center, a first-of-its-kind regional hub designed to expand access to entrepreneurship, accelerate small business development, and strengthen economic opportunity across the communities surrounding ELAC and the broader Los Angeles region.

Backed by a $2.5 million state investment secured by Senator Susan Rubio, the Center will serve as a dynamic ecosystem connecting education, industry, government, and community partners to support aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, and innovators at every stage of development.

The Susan Rubio Entrepreneurship & Innovation Center is designed to provide hands-on training, mentorship, incubation, and access to real-world market opportunities. Through year-round programming, the Center will create clear pathways for individuals to move from idea to launch, growth, and long-term success.

“Expanding access to entrepreneurship is critical to building stronger, more resilient communities,” said Senator Susan Rubio. “This $2.5 million investment will open doors—ensuring that individuals, regardless of background, have the tools, support, and opportunity to build businesses, create jobs, and generate long-term economic mobility.”

As a proud alumna of ELAC, Senator Rubio highlighted the personal significance of the Center’s opening.

“My sister, Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio, and I are both proud products of East Los Angeles College,” Rubio added. "Our journey—from being deported at the age of five, to becoming a teacher, and now being the first sisters to ever serve in the CA Legislature—is a reminder that when we invest in people, we change what’s possible. This Center represents that opportunity for the next generation.”

The Center will serve a broad and diverse population, including students, community members, early-stage founders, and established small business owners, while also engaging industry mentors, partners, and public sector collaborators. Its open innovation model expands access beyond traditional academic programs, ensuring that entrepreneurship resources are accessible to the wider community.

The grand opening brought together community leaders, entrepreneurs, industry partners, and local stakeholders to celebrate the launch and shared vision of a more inclusive and accessible economy.

Special recognition was given to ELAC leadership and partners, including Dr. Monte Perez, Chancellor Dr. Francisco C. Rodriguez, Executive Director Dr. Reyna Trujillo, and Dr. Armond Aghakhanian of the ELAC Foundation, for their leadership in bringing the Center to life.