Natalie Moore, an entrepreneur with a heart for Philadelphia, had a lifelong dream of bringing authentic Philly cheesesteaks and hoagies to Southern California. The Pico-Union/Westlake BusinessSource Center helped Moore achieve that dream.
Moore encountered significant setbacks in her entrepreneurial journey, such as theft, financial constraints in purchasing equipment, and navigating the complex regulatory landscape of California. To overcome these setbacks, Moore contacted BusinessSource for assistance. Moore stated, “I was at the point of giving up, but after meeting with the BusinessSource staff, all my licenses and permits were complete.” The BusinessSource guidance helped Moore launch her Philly Jawnz food truck at Mar Vista Recreation Center on October 23, 2024, and has over 2,000 visitors a week.
With the support of Pico-Union/Westlake BusinessSource, Moore has ambitious plans for the future of her business. Her long-term goals include expanding her fleet to seven food trucks, establishing her own commissary, and baking fresh Philly soft pretzels on-site using a 15-foot conveyor oven. Additionally, she aims to provide comprehensive employee training and create job opportunities in California.
Moore’s journey exemplifies the power of perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit.
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.
This story is from the February 2025 Updates Newsletter. Visit our EWDD Newsletter page to read more.
