Small business owners in Los Angeles can apply for grants to help them install security upgrades as a part of an expanded program, city officials announced Thursday.

During a news conference, City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez discussed how grants from the Microenterprise Grant Program can be used. The program now provides dedicated funds for business owners to install security cameras, improve lighting and alarm systems, among other protective measures, a measure the councilwoman led efforts on.

Representatives of the Economic Workforce Development Department and the Greater San Fernando Valley Chamber of Commerce joined Rodriguez for the announcement just outside the Mulberry Row, a floral shop in Sherman Oaks.

“I am here today … to celebrate and uplift a new program that we’ve launched in the city of Los Angeles, availing to our micro enterprises, those businesses that have always been the backbone of our local economy,” Rodriguez said. “I’m here to make sure that we are getting City Hall out of the way and supporting small businesses and meeting them where they need our help.”

Business owners with five employees or less are encouraged to apply for the program. Eligible applicants can receive grants up to $15,000 to cover expenses associated with security enhancements, according to the councilwoman.

“City Hall should show up to be supportive of small businesses — not harmful — and I’m proud to continue to be that voice and champion on the City Council that will ensure businesses like Mulberry Row, and so many or our restaurants that are trying to make ends meet to try and stay open for business, are actually met and celebrated by City Hall — not taken down by it,” Rodriguez said in a statement.

Robin Snyder, Mulberry Row storeowner, hailed the program, adding that she believes it will help her business, which she opened alongside a group of friends during the height of the coronavirus pandemic.

“What started off as just a flower shop is now a flower shop and a kid boutique. We have vintage clothing, and we are known in our little area. However, people aren’t necessarily spending the money they used to,” Snyder said. “So this is really great. It’s going to help us. It’s been a struggle — with our store being almost broken into five times — so it’s going to help us a lot.”

Nancy Hoffman Vanyek, CEO of the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce, noted it was a “great day” for LA small businesses.

More information is available at ewddlacity.gov.