"We would be foolish to not prepare for a similar scenario here." — L.A. County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer addressing New York's crisis
As L.A. braces for a wave of coronavirus cases and a shortage of critical equipment, the city's businesses are mobilizing. Mayor Garcetti announced L.A. would begin shutting down water and power to nonessential businesses that remain open and called on medical professionals, including those sidelined by business closures, to help. Meanwhile, SpaceX, Riot Games, 3Diligent and many other companies large and small are turning to making ventilators and much-needed medical equipment.
Know of any local startups refocusing on the coronavirus crisis? Let us know at admin@dot.la.
L.A. Startups, Activate!
SpaceX is making face shields and hand sanitizer. El Segundo-based 3Diligent is supplying 3-D printing power. Riot Games is donating money. As L.A. braces for a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases and a shortage of beds and protective gear, its businesses are stepping up to help. Read more updates >>
From Children's Garb to Fancy Face Masks
Former nurse and owner of Mixed Up Clothing, Sonia Smith-Kang, has pivoted from making children's garments to designing masks for first responders. That's allowed her to rehire sewing contractors she let go earlier this month. "If I can do anything, I am going to do it," she said. Read more >>
A Bonanza of Video Creativity in Quarantine
As Hollywood productions have ground to a halt and viewers run out of things to watch on Netflix, Jukin Media is hitting its groove. The six-year-old production house and licensing brand is flourishing as amateur video-makers turn weeks of lockdown into a creative surplus. Read more >>
Going Carless in L.A. Just Got Harder
Senior reporter Ben Bergman reflects on the tribulations of going carless in L.A. Just a short while ago, public transit, Uber and Bird had seemed like possible solutions to the city's transportation woes. Will the coronavirus bring an end to that vision? Read more >>
It's Ballmer's Forum Now
Los Angeles Clippers chairman Steve Ballmer is buying the Forum arena. The deal allows the former Microsoft CEO to move forward with plans to build a new arena for the NBA franchise. So far, there are no plans to tear down the iconic structure down. Read more >>