Mayor Eric Garcetti today announced the launch of a new initiative to connect small business owners with experts who can give them advice over the phone, over video chat or in person.

The BusinessSource Virtual Counselor Network, which is funded by a $100,000 contribution from Citi Community Development, will be up and running next month. There will be up to 60 virtual counselors available to provide real-time help.

The initiative will also serve to connect small business owners to entrepreneurial workshops, management courses, and other services offered at BusinessSource centers, which are funded by the City of Los Angeles Community Development Department. Counselors will also be available at these centers to give in-person advice.