Building on more than two decades of efforts to expand access to contracting opportunities for companies of all sizes, the Port of Long Beach is continuing to evolve how it connects with the business community.

The Port Partners web portal launched Tuesday is a one-stop shop that makes it easier to access the tools, resources, guidance and opportunities to do business with one of the nation’s busiest ports.

As part of this broader effort to bring businesses and opportunities together, the Port will host its first Small Business Summit from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 8 at The Westin Long Beach. The summit will bring together Port divisions, City departments, public agencies throughout Long Beach and industry partners to help small businesses connect with buyers, discover resources and prepare for government contracting opportunities. Registration and more information will be made available soon on the Port Partners website.

“As we look toward our 2050 Vision and continue building the Port of the Future™, our success will depend on strong partnerships with businesses of every size,” said Port of Long Beach CEO Dr. Noel Hacegaba. “When our business partners succeed, the Port succeeds. When opportunity grows, communities grow, and when we work together, we create a stronger future for our Port and our region.”

“The strength of the Port of Long Beach has always been rooted in partnership,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Steven Neal. “This is another way we’re building those relationships and making sure businesses have a clearer path to working with the Port.”

The Port has recently announced several business-centered initiatives, including a new series of trade workshops at no charge to educate small- and medium-sized companies interested in getting into the business of importing and exporting. The Port paid companies certified as Small Business Enterprises and Very Small Business Enterprises a total of $55.4 million in contract dollars in the 2025 fiscal year.