Manuela Dominguez celebrated the grand opening of her new business Melly’s Bakery on August 17, 2022.
Manuela has worked for more than 15 years in the baking industry. However, it was not until her husband’s death one year ago that Manuela began the journey of opening her own bakery. Manuela faced a series of challenges, including bringing her location up to code to comply with Health Department regulations.
These setbacks delayed the original opening planned in April, which created a large financial burden, and left Manuela and her son Cristian feeling discouraged. Fortunately, Manuela was referred to the South Valley BusinessSource Center by another bakery owner. She worked closely with Senior Business Counselor Yoryana Aguilar who went above and beyond to support Manuela.
Yoryana assisted Manuela with filing for a business license, and seller’s permit, along with navigating through the Health Inspection process. She also assisted Manuela with obtaining a $5,000 loan to cover rent and leasehold improvements. In addition, Yoryana shared Manuela’s story with her colleagues, who were inspired to offer assistance.
Manuela received free legal services from the Public Council, free website and social media support, and advice from a restaurant consultant on how to make her business profitable. The South Valley BSC, overseen by EWDD contractor ICON CDC, also partnered with the Greater San Fernando Valley Chamber of Commerce to promote the grand opening of Melly’s Bakery. The launch of the business resulted in the job creation of two full-time employees.
Melly’s Bakery is located in LA City Council District 3 at 20451 Sherman Way, Winnetka, CA 91306 and is open daily from 5am - 9pm. The bakery can be found on Instagram at @mellys_bakery_shop.
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.
Manuela has worked for more than 15 years in the baking industry. However, it was not until her husband’s death one year ago that Manuela began the journey of opening her own bakery. Manuela faced a series of challenges, including bringing her location up to code to comply with Health Department regulations.
These setbacks delayed the original opening planned in April, which created a large financial burden, and left Manuela and her son Cristian feeling discouraged. Fortunately, Manuela was referred to the South Valley BusinessSource Center by another bakery owner. She worked closely with Senior Business Counselor Yoryana Aguilar who went above and beyond to support Manuela.
Yoryana assisted Manuela with filing for a business license, and seller’s permit, along with navigating through the Health Inspection process. She also assisted Manuela with obtaining a $5,000 loan to cover rent and leasehold improvements. In addition, Yoryana shared Manuela’s story with her colleagues, who were inspired to offer assistance.
Manuela received free legal services from the Public Council, free website and social media support, and advice from a restaurant consultant on how to make her business profitable. The South Valley BSC, overseen by EWDD contractor ICON CDC, also partnered with the Greater San Fernando Valley Chamber of Commerce to promote the grand opening of Melly’s Bakery. The launch of the business resulted in the job creation of two full-time employees.
Melly’s Bakery is located in LA City Council District 3 at 20451 Sherman Way, Winnetka, CA 91306 and is open daily from 5am - 9pm. The bakery can be found on Instagram at @mellys_bakery_shop.
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.
This story is part of the EWDD UPDATES from the week of October 10, 2022. Read this issue and more.
