Aaron Jones, owner of Original Taco Pete’s, a legacy business in the heart of South Central Los Angeles, recently spoke with EWDD about how the Slauson Vermont BusinessSource Center (BSC) in South LA helped his business succeed. Taco Pete has two locations and specializes in tacos, burritos, and various other specialty items, uniquely positioning them as a Black-owned taco shop.

Taco Pete's and Jones come from a legacy of entrepreneurs that spans multiple generations and well over 50 years. In his conversation with the EWDD team, Jones stated he feels fortunate to have been in business for 34 short years.

In working with the BSC, Jones has gained information about the business programs and participated in business cohorts. Jones says the business coach "helps me understand my numbers, always helps me organize thoughts and ideas, at my reach.”

Jones envisions his business continuing to grow, taking it to the next level and credits the BusinessSource Center with helping him "get those thoughts out into a plan." When asked what advice Jones would give others interested in beginning a business, he stated, "don't do it now, do it yesterday" and to "reach out to people who [are] already doing it."

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 to create jobs. Visit EWDD’s BusinessSource Centers and learn how EWDD's Business Services can help businesses of all sizes.