Applications are now open for our CHOPPED Food Business Training Program! Whether you're looking to start a new food business or grow your existing one, this is your chance to elevate your culinary career.

Do you operate a small business or are a sidewalk vendor? Would you like to learn more about resources geared toward supporting your business? Join us on October 14!

As part of their outreach efforts, our Economic Development team participates in business walks throughout City Heights.  During their latest business walk, the Economic Development team partnered with the City of San Diego’s Economic Development Department.

Cohort 4 successfully saw 47 business owners complete the program walking away with key skills for business success.

¡Llamando a todos los vendedores ambulantes y al público en general! Esperamos que pueda unirse con nosotros para el ayuntamiento de la comunidad de venta ambulante el jueves 27 de julio

Congratulations to the second cohort of San Diego Food Justice Project students! Last week, our Economic Development team joined business owners and partners to commemorate students’ completion of the course.

We visited Gaius and Enoch, the partners behind Abule Afro Market and Eatery, at their University Ave. restaurant. Abule sits in one of City Heights emerging business hubs, near the 805 freeway and our symbolic ‘We Love City Heights’ mural.

Last Thursday, our Economic Development team partnered with the city of San Diego’s Economic Development team, the City Heights Business Association, and Council President Sean Elo-Rivera’s office for a business walk along University Ave. 

“It’s not just selling food, like a frozen bag of croquettes. It's about families gathering at their table having our cheese breads. It's an honor, families getting together and enjoying something we made.”

As we reflect on the past year, we also pause to celebrate what this community has achieved. Our work with business owners in the region calls for a profound expression of gratitude.

Osob Omar, owner and creator of Meliora Essence, forms part of the community of business owners we support.

“People across all cultures seek our food. That's when you see food goes beyond borders. Over one dish you gain friends or meet people you've never met.” Daniel, Co-Owner of The Birria Truck

“Sometimes at the end of the day, it's about survival. And survival comes with using what you know to make do with your daily expenses…”

In commemoration of the holiday, Tierra Central hosted its first Mid-Autumn Moon celebration, a traditional celebration amongst Asian cultures honoring the moon for its harvest-giving light.

As if launching a new business weren’t challenging enough, Andrew Benavides launched a year before the pandemic.

Great news! A second round of funding is now available for small businesses battling to survive the pandemic!

If we reach this goal, a funding partner will provide an additional $100k, totalling $200k for small businesses struggling under COVID-19 in City Heights!

After decades away from the food industry, Ellie is back, she's connecting to her family's culinary and cultural roots, and she's serving up delicious Mexican street food.