In a collaboration between EWDD and Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation (VSEDC), the Watts BusinessSource Center (BSC) doors officially opened on August 10, 2023, at the Children’s Institute building in the Watts community.

The Watts BSC will provide local businesses with free business counseling services such as access to capital, navigating permits and license requirements, business training and workshops, marketing and technical assistance, and other services to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

At the press conference portion, Mayor Bass and other elected speakers noted the importance of providing minority-owned businesses with free business counseling services. By providing access to these business resources, minority entrepreneurs in the Watts community can develop and grow their businesses and contribute back to their local communities. One avenue to do that is to get more small businesses involved with City contracts.

After speeches, City leaders and Watts organizations gathered for a ribbon-cutting in front of the renovated BusinessSource office space. Attendees also got the opportunity to network with and support local businesses such as Black Money Matters, Ji're Fashions, South LA Café, Watts Burger, and Island Tings.

EWDD’s BusinessSource Centers offer resources to microenterprises, small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs in the City of Los Angeles. These efforts work to revitalize the local economy by helping business owners launch viable businesses, grow revenue streams, and stabilize and create jobs. Visit EWDD’s BusinessSource Centers and learn how EWDD's Business Services can help businesses of all sizes.