A Strong Finish to 2025 for ICON CDC’s Sidewalk Vending Program
This year, ICON CDC’s Sidewalk Vending Program made meaningful strides in helping sidewalk vendors turn their hard work into safe, legal, and sustainable small businesses. Our team spent the year providing hands on, one on one guidance to entrepreneurs who often face overwhelming barriers when trying to navigate the city’s complex permitting system. Every conversation, every appointment, and every document submitted represented another vendor taking real steps toward stability and opportunity.
From November 2024 to November 2025, our outreach efforts connected with 938 community members, and 680 additional individuals reached out through phone calls and walk ins seeking support. Throughout the year, our specialists delivered 389 instances of technical assistance, helping vendors troubleshoot challenges, understand requirements, and move confidently toward compliance.
Our workshops played a key role in education and empowerment. 20 workshops brought together 486 attendees, each one learning the steps needed to operate legally and safely in Los Angeles. As a result of this work, 407 licenses and permits were secured, including business registrations, seller’s permits, and required food vending certifications. At the same time, 27 fully compliant vending carts were awarded, allowing vendors to operate with safer equipment and meet city standards.
Progress continued well beyond permitting. ICON CDC supported 106 vendors in the pipeline, guiding them through multi step processes and helping them gather the documentation necessary to move forward. By the end of the year, a total of 613 vendors were formally enrolled in our program, each one working toward better economic opportunity for themselves and their families.
These are not just numbers. They reflect real people striving to provide for their families, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the cultural vibrancy of Los Angeles. Every permit obtained, every workshop attended, and every step toward compliance represents vendors moving closer to operating their businesses legally and safely, reducing the risk of fines, shutdowns, or financial setbacks. More importantly, each milestone represents renewed confidence, dignity, and hope.
ICON CDC is honored to stand beside these hardworking entrepreneurs. Their progress is a testament to what is possible when community centered support meets determination and resilience. As we look ahead, we remain committed to breaking down barriers, expanding access to resources, and uplifting the micro entrepreneurs who make our neighborhoods stronger, more vibrant, and more connected.
