Long Beach, California is giving aspiring food entrepreneurs a significant boost with its Sidewalk to Success program. This initiative provides qualified sidewalk vendors with the opportunity to receive a free Food Cart, easing the financial burden of starting a mobile food business. The program aims to support micro-businesses and foster economic growth within the city.
Up to 40 free food carts will be awarded to eligible vendors. Applicants can choose from four distinct cart types designed for various food service needs: fruit carts equipped with coolers for serving fresh-cut fruit; grilled food carts for serving pre-cooked meats like hot dogs, burritos, and tacos; tamale carts designed for pre-packaged hot food; and ice cream carts for serving frozen treats.
To qualify for the free food cart program, applicants must meet specific criteria: reside in Long Beach and operate the cart within city limits; be classified as a micro-business with no more than two full-time employees; operate only one cart, including the one requested through the application; complete the necessary business license application; and obtain a Compact Mobile Food Operation health permit.
The application process involves three key stages: submitting a business license form and readiness checklist; providing a plan submittal checklist and detailed menu; and completing a final approval checklist. Additional documentation, such as a restroom agreement, might be required depending on the specifics of the business plan. Detailed application information and all necessary forms are accessible on the program’s webpage.
The City of Long Beach has dedicated $429,500 from the Long Beach Recovery Act to fund the cart purchases. Carts will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis to qualified applicants. Due to varying price points for each cart type, the program will conclude once the allocated funds are depleted. The final number of distributed carts hinges on the types of carts requested and overall program participation.
Beyond the free food cart initiative, the Sidewalk to Success program provides additional financial incentives to sidewalk vendors. These benefits include covering business license and health permit fees, as well as reimbursing the first year of insurance costs. This comprehensive support system demonstrates Long Beach’s commitment to nurturing small businesses and fostering a thriving mobile food vendor community. The program aligns with the city’s broader economic recovery plan and its Racial and Reconciliation Initiative, aimed at reducing social and economic disparities.
The initial three months of the program will prioritize applicants residing in designated areas that qualify for Community Development Block Grant funding, specifically targeting economic opportunities in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. However, all Long Beach residents meeting the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply promptly to secure their place in line. This proactive approach ensures a fair and equitable distribution of resources while maximizing the program’s impact on the community.
