VSEDC’s Watts BusinessSource Center is proud to partner with the Watts Rising Collaborative to offer two unique small business support programs for residents and/or businesses that are located in Watts (zip codes 90002 and 90059).
Microbusiness Investment
(Micro-Loan) Program
- Flexible Loans: $500 to $20,000 (exceptions up to $50,000)
- Eligibility: Open to small businesses and nonprofits in Watts. Priority given to business owners with limited access to traditional financing
- Benefits: Low interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and support for growth
- Funds Can Be Used For: Working capital Furniture and fixtures Inventory and equipment
Our Town Business
Improvements Program
- What’s Included: Free project management and up to $75,000 in construction costs for exterior upgrades like signage, lighting, awnings, windows, doors, landscaping, murals, and painting
- Eligibility: Open to small businesses and nonprofits in Watts.
- Benefits: Attract more customers with an inviting storefront, enhance curb appeal, and boost business visibility.
Applicants will be enrolled in the Watts BusinessSource Center and will have access to other training and coaching opportunities that are available.
About Watts Rising
The Watts Rising Collaborative is an initiative co-led by the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles and the Office of L.A. Mayor Karen Bass aimed at improving the public, environmental, and economic health of the Watts community. Watts Rising is currently administering a U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Department Choice Neighborhood Implementation (CNI) grant which includes investments to improve the neighborhood and financial security of Watts residents. The initiative includes meaningful support from the Office of Councilman Tim McOsker, Council District 15.
To implement the projects, Watts Rising and VSEDC collaborate with the following organizations that serve as project implementation partners.
To learn more about Watts Rising, please visit www.wattsrising.org.
