US Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) has secured a $1 million grant from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to support the completion of SoLa Impact’s upcoming tech and entertainment hub.
This center will be located in the heart of the Crenshaw and Leimert Park communities, providing state-of-the-art facilities designed to empower local youth through education and career development.
A New Hub for Innovation in Crenshaw
SoLa Impact’s second tech center, set to open in 2025, will be housed on the ground floor of Crenshaw Lofts, a 195-unit affordable housing development.
This 10,000 sq ft facility will serve as a space for learning, creativity, and career advancement.
It aims to train and mentor over 1,000 young people each year in the fields of arts, entertainment, media, and cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI).
The center will feature a collaborative workspace, a professional recording studio, and an indoor/outdoor event space, designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the community.
A Commitment to Community and Workforce Development
“By connecting young Angelenos with workforce training in arts, entertainment, and technology careers, SoLa’s new youth center will make a real, lasting impact on South LA for generations to come,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove.
“I was proud to secure funding for this center, and I look forward to seeing the vital role it will play in empowering future creators, entrepreneurs, and innovators from the storied community of Crenshaw.”
Bridging the Digital Divide
Designed with collaborations including Grammy-winning producer James Fauntleroy and powered by Live Nation, the SoLa Tech & Entertainment Center will focus on bridging the racial digital divide in South LA.
Through partnerships and innovative programming, the center aims to create pipelines to lucrative careers in the arts, technology, and live events industries.
“This center is about creating access and opportunities for our youth, ensuring they have a shot at a brighter future,” Sherri Francois, SoLa Impact’s Chief Imapact Officer said.
Feature Image Credit: Sydney Kamlager
