Se abre en una pestaña nueva
Small business assistance
See all Grants

Sidewalk Vending Program

This grant is provided by ICON CDC (in partnership with the City of Los Angeles Community Investment Department)

  • Grant Amount

    Free vending cart + services
  • Open date

  • Grant Frequency

    Ongoing; closes once all carts are distributed

About This Grant

The Sidewalk Vending Program, run by ICON CDC in partnership with the City of Los Angeles Community Investment Department, provides eligible sidewalk vendors with free vending carts, permitting and compliance assistance, and business resources to help them operate safely and grow. Cart availability is subject to program requirements and available funding.

What’s offered:

  • Permitting and compliance assistance: help with applications, required documentation, health and safety regulations, and licensing, including the Business Tax Registration Certificate (BTRC), StreetsLA Vending Permit (food and merchandise), and Los Angeles County Department of Public Health permit.
  • Vending carts: eligible vendors may receive carts designed for safe and compliant sidewalk vending.
  • Workshops and training: workshops and one-on-one training on the permit process, staying compliant, and financial resources to grow your business.

From 2020 through 2024, the program has funded over $455,000 in grants, assisted 750+ vendors, and provided technical assistance to 340+ vendors.

Please note: funding is limited and eligibility does not guarantee a cart. Not all applicants will be selected, applications must be complete, and there is a limit of one cart per household.

How You Can Use the Funds

  • Vending cart (free to eligible vendors)
  • Permitting and compliance assistance (BTRC, StreetsLA vending permit, LA County health permit)
  • Workshops and one-on-one business training

Documents Required

  • Social Security number or ITIN
  • Business license & permits
  • Completion of a CMFO training session

Eligibility Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Operate a sidewalk vending business in the City of Los Angeles
  • Have at least 1 year of experience as a sidewalk vendor
  • Business has less than $75,000 in annual income
  • Was impacted by COVID-19
  • Has transportation and storage for the cart
  • Will complete a CMFO training session
  • Does not already have a CMFO permit from the Department of Public Health

More Details. Apply Here.

Microenterprise Collaborative is non-affiliated with this grant.

Learn More & Enroll