Applications are now open, with grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 available through payments made towards permitting expenses, requirements needed to comply with vending regulations, and essential business costs. Such eligible uses include the following: 

• Permitting fees, such as the required Sidewalk Vending Registration Certificate (SVRC)
• Costs associated with attaining a Compact Mobile Food Operations (CMFO), including Food Handler’s Training and lease of commissary space
• Compliant vending carts that meet CA State health and safety standards
• Business equipment and other tools to support operations 
• And much more 

This grant program is part of DEO’s Economic Mobility Initiative (EMI), which provides education, access to capital, and resources to help entrepreneurs and small businesses grow, thrive, and build generational wealth in their communities. 

“As LA County’s Sidewalk Vending Ordinance takes effect, it’s critical that we provide vendors with the resources they need to succeed. The Small Business Mobility Fund ensures that our sidewalk vendors have access to capital to meet compliance requirements, formalize their businesses, and continue serving our neighborhoods without disturbing brick and mortar businesses, said Holly J. Michell, Los Angeles County Supervisor and author of the motion establishing the Sidewalk Vending Ordinance. “This is about economic justice and making sure every small business owner—no matter how they start—has a fair shot at thriving in LA County.” 

“Sidewalk vendors are an integral part of our County’s economy and cultural identity” said Kelly LoBianco, Director of DEO. “Through this grant program, we are breaking down financial barriers to ensure vendors have the resources they need to meet the expectations of the new Ordinance, grow their vending businesses, and continue serving our communities with essential food and goods as they transition into the formal economy.”  

Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and administered in partnership with Inclusive Action for the City (IAC), the program will provide virtual webinars and in-person workshops across all five Supervisorial Districts to guide vendors through the application process and connect them to business support services. Events will be posted here. 

“While street vendors are beloved pillars of our communities, they are also some of the most vulnerable entrepreneurs in our economy. That’s why we’re proud to partner with the County to deliver this investment to support street vendors across our region. This critical step builds on the work we’ve done alongside our government leaders to implement policies that offer legal pathways for vendors, and now we’re thrilled that the County is investing in making sure vendors have access to participate in these new systems,” said Rudy Espinoza, CEO of Inclusive Action. 

Applicants must be self-employed sidewalk vendors operating in unincorporated areas of LA County, who either have or are seeking to obtain a Sidewalk Vending Registration Certificate (SVRC). Vendors must have been impacted by COVID-19 and may not operate more than one cart.  

Grants awards will be distributed on a rolling basis. With the first application round closing on, May 2, 2025, and round two closing on June 27, 2025. The grant timeline is subject to change and additional rounds may be introduced based on the funds available.  

For assistance, more information on eligibility, and to apply now, please visit: bit.ly/SmallBusinessMobilityFund