North Valley Businesssource Center Helps Launch Food Based Business During Covid-19 Pandemic

When Sidewalk Vending first became legal in the City of LA, Mr. Garcia was interested in selling tamales as a Sidewalk Vendor. In October 2020, Mr. Garcia contacted the North Valley BusinessSource Center for assistance with launching a Sidewalk Vending business. When he learned that the process to become a Sidewalk Food Vendor wasn’t simple, he decided it was easier to establish an actual restaurant.

The North Valley BusinessSource Center assisted Cesar with obtaining a Business License, Seller’s Permit, and registering a DBA. He was also referred to the LA County Department of Public Health and to the Restaurant and Hospitality Express Program, offered by the Department of Building and Safety for assistance with opening up a restaurant.

Cesar stated that opening up a business during a pandemic was a challenge, but is thankful for the assistance offered by the North Valley BusinessSource Center.

“I was lucky enough to learn about all the resources you have to offer, and the best part is it’s all free. Elizabeth has been a great help, she always follows up with me and offers help or information without me asking. I would gladly recommend the North BusinessSource Center to other business owners.”

The North Valley BusinessSource Center will continue to work with Mr. Garcia on his future goals of hiring employees and growing his business enough to establish a second location. He will be working with BSC staff on accessing capital.

I Love Tamales Mexican Cuisine, located in Panorama City’s Plaza Del Valle in Council District 7, plans to sell tamales as well as other Mexican dishes like birria and tacos. Their doors will officially open to the public later this month and has adapted the business to follow all COVID-19 protocols and plans to offer curbside pickup and online orders.