Sidewalk Vendor Formalization Grant

The Sidewalk Vendor Formalization Grant Program is an initiative of the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), designed to assist sidewalk vendors operating within the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County in complying with the County’s new Sidewalk Vending Ordinance. The ordinance, which took effect in August 2024, requires vendors to obtain a Sidewalk Vending Registration Certificate (SVRC) to legally operate. This grant program seeks to lower the financial barriers that prevent vendors from formalizing their businesses, especially those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the program is administered by the DEO in partnership with Inclusive Action for the City (IAC). It is distributing over $1 million in direct support to eligible vendors, with individual grants ranging from $500 to $5,000. These grants are specifically intended to cover compliance-related expenses, including obtaining required licenses, certifications, and equipment necessary for formal vending operations. Eligible costs also include business setup materials and digital payment technology to enhance business viability in today’s economy. To qualify, applicants must be self-employed sidewalk vendors operating one cart, selling either food or merchandise, and doing so in the unincorporated areas of LA County. Additionally, they must reside in the county, have initiated vending operations prior to March 2023, and demonstrate financial losses tied to the COVID-19 pandemic between March 2019 and March 2023. Applicants who have received any prior ARPA-funded COVID-19 relief grants from state or local entities are not eligible. Vendors with a history of repeated health and safety violations may also be disqualified unless they can provide evidence of substantial remediation efforts. The program supports both new applicants and vendors who are already permitted but may need further compliance assistance. Food vendors may use funds to cover health department-approved cart purchases, required food safety certifications, and commissary leasing. All vendors may utilize funds for acquiring a seller’s permit, fictitious business name filing, or purchasing business equipment like tables and umbrellas—though usage must follow a tiered spending system starting with basic compliance costs. Applications opened on March 7, 2025, and are being accepted on a rolling basis, pending funding availability. Interested vendors can apply directly and are encouraged to verify that their vending location is within an unincorporated area using the county’s district locator tool. There is no fixed deadline, but applicants are urged to apply promptly due to limited funds. Selection will consider not only eligibility but also demonstrated efforts toward compliance and participation in related programs through the Economic Mobility Initiative (EMI). To apply, vendors must submit proof of identification, a California State Seller’s Permit, SSN or ITIN, DBA/fictitious name registration (if applicable), a compliant vending location, and a plan for how the grant will be spent. Food vendors must also have attended a Compact Mobile Food Operation (CMFO) workshop. Assistance is available through the Office of Small Business by phone or email, and in-person consultations can be scheduled. Support is offered in both English and Spanish through EMI partners.