LAB grew out of a simple habit — a standing lunch among former peers — into a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving more than ninety business leaders across Southern California.
LAB was founded in 2024, growing out of informal lunches among a small group of former executive peer-group colleagues into a regular, sponsor-supported gathering for CEOs and senior leaders. What began as a handful of people sharing a meal has grown into a community of more than 90 members across Southern California, with regular attendance of fifteen to twenty executives at each lunch or event.
In mid-2026, LAB formalized as a California nonprofit public benefit corporation and received its 501(c)(3) tax-exempt determination from the IRS, building a more consistent foundation for its educational programming and deepening its impact on the region's economic and civic life. Sponsorship contributions and program support directly fund LAB's executive education programs and regional economic development initiatives.
Members are entrepreneurs, founders, CEOs, and senior executives leading companies of all sizes — from emerging businesses to firms with well over $100 million in revenue — who come together to learn from one another, work through shared challenges, and build lasting professional relationships.
LAB was founded by Aaron Labowitz, who co-founded Entertainment Earth and led it for nearly three decades as it grew from an idea into a leading collectibles platform.
After stepping away from day-to-day operations at Entertainment Earth, Aaron created LAB to bring together a trusted network of business leaders and entrepreneurs in Southern California who value real relationships, candid conversations, and collaborative problem-solving. He serves as LAB's President and Chief Executive Officer.
"All businesses and founders have the same set of issues with people, strategy, management, leadership, and personal balance — and I love helping those businesses succeed. I view LAB as a more accessible version of the peer groups that shaped my own career."
— Aaron Labowitz, Founder & President
Elected at LAB's initial board meeting on June 30, 2026, per the corporation's official Bylaws and Minutes.
Founder of LAB and former co-founder / CEO of Entertainment Earth. Oversees LAB's programs, sponsor relationships, and day-to-day operations.
Serves as Secretary of the Board, maintaining LAB's corporate records and governance filings.
Serves as Treasurer, overseeing LAB's financial reporting and independent oversight of sponsorship funds.