North Valley Businesssource Assists Local Caramel Apple Boutique In Receiving COVID Funding & Land Super Bowl LVI City Gig

Nestled between Yard House and H&M at the Northridge Fashion Center lies Famous Apples, one of the few caramel apple boutiques and snack bars in the San Fernando Valley. On any given day, Famous Apples has more than 30 caramel apple flavors and prides itself on working with clients to create their own customized designs for parties and events.

The North Valley BusinessSource Center and owner, Cristina Villaseñor have worked closely since July 2019, days before Famous Apples had their Grand Opening. Throughout 2019 and 2020, the North Valley BusinessSource Center has provided HR assistance, marketing assistance, Access to Capital, networking and pitch development, tax planning and reporting, certification and various other supportive services.

“One of our main learning experiences during the business journey is that you should never try to start or manage a business alone. It’s important to work as a team and to have a good support system. If there’s an entrepreneur that says they can do it, they can do it, but why do it alone when they are here to help. They are friendly and always willing to help!…Knowing that I can call Maria for assistance helps to create peace of mind.”

That support system proved to be valuable in 2020. Like many businesses in 2020, Famous Apples was put to the test by the COVID-19 pandemic. With the assistance of North Valley BusinessSource Center, Famous Apples was able to apply and be awarded for both rounds of the PPP and PPP Forgiveness (2020 and 2021), the EIDL, and the CA Relief Grant in May 2021, allowing Famous Apples to retain 4 employee positions. Not only were they able to stay open, but they were able to grow the business.

“We are still open and gaining customers. Some of our customers during the past two years include production houses for movies and TV, theme parks, and now Famous Apples has been designated as an approved supplier of the Super Bowl LVI (56) Business Connect program. We are one of 225 local, diverse businesses in the Los Angeles area identified as a certified, experienced company approved to compete for contracts related to the Super Bowl.”

Stop by Famous Apples at 9400 Shirley Ave. in Council District 12 Sunday through Thursday from 11am-9pm, Friday and Saturday from 11am-10pm. If you stop by, be sure to check out the decor that features information on some of the famous apples throughout history. Famous Apples can also be ordered online through GrubHub, UberEats, DoorDash, and PostMates, or call them at 818-812-3017 to place your Custom Candy Apple order. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with their seasonal offerings.