2018 is almost at an end, and we’re excited to be entering a new year of possibilities for small business support and community development. As we prepare for the next twelve months of success, we’d like to remember some of the best parts of the past year building up entrepreneurs, creating jobs, and changing the future of small business in America. Thank you for being a part of our incredible journey, and we will see you next year!
Pegi’s Letter to the Board of Directors
At the beginning of 2017, Pegi Matsuda, then Immediate Past Chair and a current longtime supporter of VEDC, wrote a letter to her fellow chairmen about her visit to the Watts Entrepreneur Business Accelerator, praising staff and calling attention to the ongoing need for more support in Southern Los Angeles.
Leticia Giron of Belleza & Beauty
VEDC visited Leticia Giron, owner and founder of B&B Belleza and Beauty equipment in Reseda, CA to discuss her business and learn more about her role in the beauty industry. She told us an amazing story of entrepreneurial support, personal investment in her community, and how not to be afraid.
A Guide to Interviewing and Hiring for Small Businesses
The Human Resources manager at VEDC wrote a comprehensive guide for business owners needing to hire new employees.
Travelers Recognizes VEDC for National Small Business Program
Through an incredible partnership with Travelers, VEDC has been able to provide a national program for risk education and access to capital for business owners in 9 states across the country. Travelers recognized VEDC during their International Corporate Citizenship Conference in April and we had the pleasure of attending and supporting their team.
Learn more about the Travelers event
SBA Names WBC Winner of the
“Women’s Business Center of Excellence” Award
“We’re honored to be recognized by the SBA for our efforts on behalf of women-owned small businesses in the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley areas.” -Ruth Garcia-Corrales, Program Manager of the VEDC Women’s Business Center in Los Angeles
VEDC Awarded $150,000 Grant from Wells Fargo
We were thrilled to receive even more financial support from our longtime partners at Wells Fargo. Their team attended a number of our events to sit on panels, provided workshop support, and helped us continue to build our local communities.
Read how the loan helped us give back
PoetRoniGirl Vintage Designs
Roni Walter told her entrepreneurial story to VEDC, an absolutely amazing tale of hard work, perseverance, and constant focus on her goal. She can proudly say her journey has taken her above and beyond her wildest dreams.
Read the rest of Roni’s story so far
Charles & Company Meets Funding Goal on Kiva
Lawrence Charles came to VEDC for lending support to help his business grow. Our organization endorsed his premium tea company on Kiva, and in less than a month his funding was secured. He’s since appeared on countless television news networks, sponsored celebrity shows, and built an enormous following around his products.
Read more about Charles & Company
VEDC Hosts Veterans Small Business Celebration
In partnership with Travelers, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and local government and veteran groups, VEDC hosted the 2018 Veterans Small Business Celebration to provide support and access to capital for service men and women starting and growing their businesses.
Read more about the event in Pacoima
Bank of America presents VEDC a $100,000 grant for veteran entrepreneurs
Our partners and board members at Bank of America offered a generous grant to support our small business clients and education services in San Fernando and Los Angeles. With their help, we will continue to reach countless entrepreneurs across Southern California and build better, stronger communities for our families.
Congratulations on all the accomplishments, awards, and results. It is great to see how so many other businesses are receiving guidance. When I started my business about 8 years ago, I attended a class at VEDC and it had a great impact. It was a one-time workshop on Business Networking. As a woman-owned small business owner, I know how hard it can be to navigate through daily operational challenges, customer engagement, online presence, and so much more. I sure hope to find the time to attend VEDC workshops again as they are a great source for all small businesses. Thank you for all that you provide for us.