PROGRAM TABLE
Master of Ceremonies: Cristina espiritu
DOORS OPEN / CHECK-IN & REGISTRATION
EVENT INTRO VIDEO
WELCOME REMARKS
Kerry Doi / President & CEO / PACE
Swann Do / Director of WBC / PACE
KEYNOTE SPEECH
Hilda L. Solis Staff / Supervisor District 1 / LA County
Crystal Stovall / Deputy District Director / SBA
AWARD CEREMONY 5:30 PM
Certificate of Recognition to 20 PACE WBC Clients
SUCCESS STORIES 5:45 PM
Marlena Burton / President & CEO / Skywalker Roofing
Gurcharan Singh / Founder & CEO / Balance for Herbal Cup Tea
Adam & Bethany White / Co-Owners / Fixed Dimensions
PANEL DISCUSSION - MODERATOR: CRISTINA ESPIRITU 6:15 PM
Crystal Stovall / Deputy District Director / SBA
Patty Ross / Founder & Owner / Golden State Marketing
Ritu Mahajan / Attorney / Public Counsel
Bradon Leibowitz / CEO / SEO Optimizer
EVENT
&
Since 1975
PACE has helped over 1 4 million individuals and families achieve economic mobility and a better life for themselves and their community. PACE is a recognized leader in combating poverty and economic inequality within the underserved and low-income communities of Los Angeles. Since our founding, PACE has been dedicated to creating innovative economic solutions to meet our community’s evolving needs. While PACE was originally founded to support the employment needs of AAPI refugees, our programs have continued to expand and adapt in response to the changing political, social, and economic landscape of Los Angeles.
For half a century, PACE has stood at the intersection of social justice and community empowerment, championing those left behind and ensuring progress is shared by all. Rooted in the spirit of 'serving the people,' we honor the legacy of AAPI community organizing and remain committed to one simple mission: to serve and empower our communities. Aloha nui loa (much love),
Kerry Doi, PACE President & CEO
PACE Business
Has provided business training, technical assistance, 1:1 counseling, and access to capital to thousands of inspired, committed Angelenos. In addition to being an SBA Microloan Intermediary and a Community Advantage lender, PACE is a COIN certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), Community Development Entity (CDE) and an official CalCAP Lender. PACE Business also houses an award-winning Women’s Business Center and operates 2 of 10 Business Source Centers (Pico Union/Westlake and Hollywood regions) within the City of Los Angeles.
WBC
To take each woman that we serve to the next level of success and beyond, PACE Women’s Business Center (WBC) is designed to serve minority women of all demographic backgrounds with their business development and emerging market needs. We serve urban socio-economically disadvantaged entrepreneurs located throughout Los Angeles County, primarily in Central and South Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley. In Addition to English, services are provided in Korean, Armenian, Chinese, Farsi, French, Hindi, Malaysian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Thai
Over the past two decades, PACE-WBC has provided mentorship, training, technical assistance, and inspiration to thousands of women and men entrepreneurs throughout Greater Los Angeles County. I have witnessed the ripple effect how one small business can uplift a family, transform a neighborhood, and strengthen an entire city. How one woman’s dream can become a source of jobs, opportunity, and economic empowerment. Our work at PACE-WBC is a powerful example of what happens when mission meets action.
Swann Do, Director of PACE WBC
PACE WBC Provides
Businessconsultationsatno
costtoentrepreneurs.
Obtainingabusinesslicenseand permits
Businessplanreview
Marketing
Graphicandwebsitedevelopment
Organizationaldevelopment
Financemanagement
Governmentcontractprocurement
ETP(EntrepreneurTraining Program)
A 10-session course will show you how to start and grow a business, from Ato-Z Participants create a solid business plan, fine-tune their business pitch, gain understanding of marketing, finances, legal structure of their business, and more
PROFESSIONALWORKSHOPS
Our workshops are open to everyone and are designed to inform and educate current and future business owners in the key elements of successful operations. We offer networking opportunities and feature the very best speakers who share their experiences and expertise to assist in starting and growing the business
EMPOWERING JOURNEYS
OUR 20 SUCCESS STORIES
ancy Ochoa
andy Engler
Rosemary R Cabanas Ogi Jimen
Gurcharan Singh
Veronica Youm
Zakiya Ellick
Desiree Alvarado
Jessica Ascensio
Nayomie Mendoza
cott
Adam & any White
Fran
Michelle Lainez
Rita Makmura
Kala Maxyum
Yong Ho Kim
Meymuna Hussein-Cattan
WOMEN INFLUENCE
OF April Soto
Founder & CEO
Love and Light Integrative Medicine (LALIM) Health
1800 Fair Oaks Suite #A, South Pasadena, CA 91030 (415) 505-1269
Dr. April Soto, a compassionate and visionary physician, is the founder of a thriving integrative medical practice based in Southern California. In the summer/fall of 2023, she joined the PACE Women’s Business Center’s Entrepreneurial Training Program to strengthen her foundational business knowledge and establish a more structured approach for her growing practice.
Through the program, Dr. Soto gained valuable clarity around her mission, developed strategic goals, and learned how to manage her resources more effectively. PACE’s emphasis on sustainable business practices and targeted marketing strategies provided the tools she needed to better understand and manage the day-to-day operations of her business.
This transformation led to tangible outcomes: she expanded her medical offerings, hired an assistant to support her increasing client base, and further refined her unique approach to care. Today, her practice includes Direct Primary Care, menopause and functional gut health treatments, and transformative services such as Ketamine therapy and Breathwork— especially for individuals coping with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Her holistic, patient-centered approach reflects her commitment to treating the root causes of illness with empathy, innovation, and personalized care. “I’m so grateful for the PACE community, and especially for Swann Do, who has continued to check in and support me even after the program ended,” says Dr. Soto. “That kind of lasting connection makes a real difference.”
Now recognized not only as a healer but also as a successful entrepreneur, Dr. Soto is a powerful example of how purpose-driven leadership, combined with the right support, can build a business that truly transforms lives.
OF
Nancy Ochoa
Co-Founder
Reliable Housekeeper
www.reliablehousekeepers.com
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(626) 607-9524
In December 2018, during the height of the pandemic, Nancy Ochoa’s mother and her mother’s best friend were both laid off. In their late 40s, with limited education and no business experience, they faced severe financial hardship. Refusing to give up, they decided to use their years of cleaning experience to offer housecleaning services. As demand grew, they invited Nancy to join them and she eagerly agreed.
While working alongside them, Nancy began researching how to grow the business professionally. That’s when she discovered the PACE Women’s Business Center (PACE WBC) and scheduled a meeting. There, she connected with Swann Do, Director of PACE WBC, who became a key mentor.
With Swann’s support, the team developed a brand identity, created marketing materials, and attended workshops on business fundamentals like marketing, pricing, and customer retention. They learned how to properly value their services and build for long-term success. By March 2022, Reliable Housekeeper had become an S-Corporation, hired 10 full-time staff, and acquired four vehicles. With PACE’s help, they pursued certifications and procurement opportunities, securing a $200,000+ contract in December 2023.
In 2024, the business expanded into Pomona, servicing over 100 residential clients and winning contracts with the City of Los Angeles, hospitals, gyms, and BIDs. Services grew to include graffiti removal, hauling, and more Nancy credits PACE’s mentorship and resources for their growth, saying, “Starting a business is scary but with the right support, success is possible.”
Today, Reliable Housekeeper is a thriving, woman- and minority-owned business success story.
Marlena Burton
President & CEO
Skywalker Roofing
12631 Imperial Hwy., F-210
Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
(562) 612 -9983
Joe and Marlena’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of mentorship. After overcoming personal challenges and reentering the workforce in 2017, they began working in the roofing industry under a subcontractor model that limited their financial growth and independence. Recognizing the inequities, they made the bold decision to start their own roofing company with just $15,000 in savings and minimal access to business resources.
By 2019, they had gained some traction but were struggling to scale. Seeking support, they turned to the PACE Women’s Business Center. Through the Entrepreneurial Training Program (ETP), they acquired essential knowledge in financial management, payroll compliance, marketing, contracting, and project execution. With PACE’s guidance and procurement assistance, they developed a strategic direction, built new partnerships, and began competing more effectively in the industry.
Graduating from the ETP in 2023 was a pivotal moment. In November 2024, they expanded into commercial contracting and began collaborating with Grid Alternatives and other solar and general contractors. Their business revenue grew significantly reaching $400K by the end of 2024 and $300K more by March 2025.
Beyond financial growth, they created impact. Through the PACE Procurement Project, Joe and Marlena have created jobs for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those reentering society after incarceration.
Today, they exemplify how grit, vision, and the right support can turn adversity into opportunity. Their success story is a powerful example of a community-rooted business built with purpose and heart.
Rosemary R. Cabanas
Founder & President
Rose of Mary Nature’s Gift
RoseofMary7@icloud.com (310) 717- 4147
My name is Rosemary Rodriguez Cabanas, and I launched my therapeutic lotion business in 2008 to help individuals suffering from chronic pain. As a passionate self-starter, I believed deeply in the healing power of my products but my first year was filled with uncertainty and hardship. I searched for guidance and attended countless meetings, but felt lost until I discovered PACE Business Development Center in 2009 and met Swann Do.
From our very first meeting, Swann welcomed me with warmth and encouragement. She reminded me that I wasn’t alone and committed to walking this journey with me. Her mentorship brought clarity and renewed confidence in my vision. She helped me refine my product line, improve branding and packaging, and build a professional image that resonated with customers.
Swann often worked beyond office hours, helping with product labels, messaging, and design. Her dedication, generosity, and belief in me were transformative. Thanks to her support, I found the strength to persevere even during the toughest times.
Today, I offer over 73 specialized therapeutic lotions, with plans to open a massage center. I’ve helped over 165 individuals with conditions like cancer, Parkinson’s, autism, arthritis, and more. I’m also seeking an SBA loan to expand production and reach.
Beyond my business, I serve the homeless community in Los Angeles, offering head massages and wellness support. In 2009, I was honored by an ombudsman as one of Southern California’s top activities directors and featured in Reader’s Digest.
Swann, thank you. Your unwavering support has truly changed my life.
WOMEN
Ogi Jimen
Owner
Noyon Corporation Sushi
Sushi Koo
8474 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 606-3000
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020, small businesses across California faced unprecedented challenges. Among them was Noyon Inc. Sushi Koo, a family-owned restaurant in Los Angeles run by entrepreneur Ogi Jiimen and her husband. After a decade of steady growth, their revenue disappeared overnight due to the statewide “Safer at Home” order.
Ogi had been preparing to open a third business, but the shutdown halted her plans. Income stopped, expenses piled up, and she had to lay off over half her staff. Determined to retain her core team, she used her retirement savings to stay afloat and reached out to the PACE Women’s Business Center (PACE WBC) for support.
There, she connected with Swann Do, Director of PACE WBC, who helped her apply for emergency financial relief. Though her first SBA EIDL application was delayed, with Swann’s guidance, she resubmitted and received an $8,000 advance. PACE also helped secure both rounds of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding after initial delays.
“These funds felt like magic I felt like I won the lottery!” Ogi shared. These resources allowed Ogi to rehire staff, pay rent, and stabilize operations. The downtime also sparked innovation. Inspired by her customers’ favorite flavors, she launched Aji Mori Sauce, a premium umami sauce line.
Through PACE’s Procurement Assistance Program, she also explored government contracting with support from Andrew Barrera, Procurement Relationship Manager of PACE. Today, Ogi has opened her fifth restaurant and expanded into manufacturing. Her journey is a powerful testament to immigrant resilience, reinvention, and the impact of accessible small business support.
OF
Brandy Engler
Founder & Psychologist
Silver Lake Psychology
4325 Sunset Blvd., Suite 206
Los Angeles, California 90029
(800) 726- 3890
Brandy Engler began her career as a psychologist in private practice, but soon decided to take a leap launching Silver Lake Psychology, a general psychotherapy business. She invested in a larger office and began hiring experienced therapists to expand her services.
As her business grew, so did the challenges. Brandy found herself overwhelmed by the less glamorous side of entrepreneurship—grappling with terms like ADP, ROI, and EDD, while lacking skills in finance and management. She worked 14-hour days, juggling lease negotiations, staff training, and admin tasks. Within a year, she had 12 therapists and two offices but despite growth, she faced serious financial difficulties. She quickly learned that expansion doesn’t always mean profit, especially with high overhead, heavy taxes, and limited financial management knowledge.
In search of help, Brandy turned to the PACE Women’s Business Center (PACE WBC), a nonprofit that empowers women entrepreneurs. She joined the PACE mentor program and received critical guidance from Swann Do, Director of PACE WBC, and volunteer mentor Robert McKim, a retired business executive.
With their support, Brandy learned core financial strategies, monthly reporting, how to analyze data for decision-making, and how to plan for sustainable growth. She also developed skills in team leadership, negotiation, and regulatory compliance. Most importantly, she learned to balance freedom and accountability within her team and to closely oversee finances.
Today, Silver Lake Psychology generates over $10 million in annual revenue and employs 400 people across California, Colorado, Tennessee, and Virginia with Dr. Engler still at the helm as CEO.
Gurcharan Singh
Founder
www.herbalcuptea.com (310) 562-1106
Gurcharan Singh founded Herbal Cup Tea in 2013 with a passion for producing high-quality, herbal teas. He invested all his available funds into sourcing premium ingredients but lacked capital for packaging. Initially, he outsourced to a competitor’s co-packer, but repeated price increases made the arrangement unsustainable. Another option on the East Coast proved costly due to shipping pre-mixed ingredients and finished products.
In 2014, Mr. Singh secured a loan from PACE Finance Corporation to purchase his own tea packaging machine. By September 2015, this investment paid off his revenues grew eight to nine times. Starting with 10 blends, he has since expanded to over 50 tea varieties.
Today, Mr. Singh owns three packaging machines, including a new model that produces 250 tea bags per minute (up from 185). With this increased capacity, he entered larger markets and secured key partnerships with major distributors UNFI and KeHE. Herbal Cup Tea is now available at retailers such as TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Whole Foods, Ralphs, Sprouts, and Amazon. A full-time broker supports sales across the East and West Coasts.
Looking ahead, Mr. Singh plans to purchase two additional machines and relocate to a larger warehouse to support growing demand. His top-selling product, Ayurveda Women’s Tea, has gained national attention, including a feature in Bloomberg, and continues to receive glowing reviews from customers and health food stores alike.
For more, visit the Herbal Cup Tea website, where testimonials and Amazon reviews highlight the tea’s quality and wellness benefits.
OF
Veronica Youman
Owner & President
Youman Welding
9160 Whittier Blvd.,
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
(562) 972-9541
Veronica Youman’s journey into entrepreneurship is a powerful story of grit, perseverance, and community support. Her path began in 2010 when, while working overnight as a security guard, a friend encouraged her to try a welding class. Despite doubts, she committed to a 10month training program, balancing night shifts with full days of instruction. Her dedication paid off when she earned her structural welding certification through the City of Los Angeles.
Veronica later moved to North Dakota, working in the oil fields for over three years. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, she saved to invest in welding equipment and a truck key steps toward starting her own business. Upon returning to California, she faced new challenges: no industry network, a lack of business knowledge, and the need to master pipe welding. She spent a year training and passed the certification exams.
In 2023, Veronica connected with PACE Women’s Business Center to formalize her business. With guidance, she obtained her licenses, built a capability statement, and pursued minority business certifications. PACE also supported her with contract reviews and bid preparation.
In 2024, Veronica secured her first major construction contract but lacked working capital. Traditional lenders saw her business as high-risk.
PACE stepped in again, helping her secure a $50,000 loan to cover payroll and materials. With continued mentorship, she gained skills in financial management, bonding, and forecasting.
Now a certified WBE, SBE, and DBE with a Class C license, Veronica’s Youman Welding is growing and poised for long-term success.
Zakiya Ellick
Founder & CEO
The Cookie Dip Company
www.thecookiedipcompany.com (323) 348-0189
Zakiya Ellick, founder and CEO of The Cookie Dip Company, is a Los Angeles-based culinary artist and multi-generational entrepreneur. What began as a childhood tradition mixing dessert dips with her grandmother while watching daytime soaps has blossomed into a unique brand that redefines indulgence with bold flavors and heartfelt intention.
Founded in 2018, The Cookie Dip Company caters to luxury snack lovers, gift buyers, and event planners seeking something beyond the ordinary. With innovative dips like Mango Chili and Milk Chocolate Horchata, Zakiya elevates cookies to a new level of experience. But scaling a handcrafted product in a mass-production world posed serious challenges. As a solo entrepreneur and single mom, she wore every hat chef, marketer, distributor while selffunding the company’s growth.
In 2021, Zakiya connected with Swann Do, Director of the PACE Women’s Business Center (PACE WBC). Through one-on-one advising, she gained tools to professionalize her operations —refining her capability statement, vendor registration, procurement strategy, budgeting, branding, and trademarking. That support shifted her mindset from artisan to scalable brand. In 2022, sales rose by 75%, and The Cookie Dip Company gained placement with DashMart (DoorDash), expanding access across Southern California. Zakiya also catered high-profile events, sponsored celebrity basketball games, and earned media exposure through Power 106, KJLH, and KBLA.
Looking ahead, she plans to expand into corporate gifting and launch a subscription box featuring seasonal flavors. Her dips are more than treats they’re a celebration of heritage and resilience, building a legacy one jar at a time.
“With the right support and a spoonful of courage, it’s possible to scale soulful, small-batch brilliance. I’m living proof of that.”
Desiree Alvarado
CEO
Crown Promotions Group, Inc. 10952 Main Street El Monte, CA 91731 (323) 348-0189
When I first connected with PACE Women’s Business Center, I was rebuilding after closing a franchise. I wanted to continue working with clients and creating custom promotional products, but I needed guidance on how to move forward That’s when I launched Pasadena Promos, offering branded apparel, embroidery, screen printing, and promotional items.
With PACE’s support, I built a stronger foundation—learning how to structure my business, pursue certifications, and think strategically about pricing, marketing, and growth. The oneon-one advising sessions especially with Cristina Espiritu, Procurement Manager gave me clarity and encouragement when I needed it most.
Cristina also helped me develop a capability statement, which became a vital tool for presenting my business professionally to larger clients and government agencies That guidance gave me the confidence to compete for contracts and approach opportunities more strategically.
PACE has supported me through each phase, whether I needed help prepping for a pitch, navigating operations, or just exploring ideas. Their workshops also introduced tools and resources that helped me understand compliance, contracts, and scaling. As the business grew, I began working with local colleges, nonprofits, and businesses. Eventually, we outgrew our name and location.
I’m proud to share that we recently rebranded as Crown Promotions Group Inc. and purchased a commercial property in El Monte, marking a major milestone. Despite challenges, including a wildfire that impacted both my home and business, I’ve stayed focused on growth and service. Being recognized by PACE WBC is an honor and a reminder of what’s possible with strong community support.
Jessica Ascensio
Nayomie Mendoza
Owner
Cuernavaca’s Grill
429 E. 11th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015
(562) 256-5037
In the heart of Los Angeles, Cuernavaca’s Grill stands as a testament to hard work, family legacy, and authentic Mexican cuisine. Founded in 2005 by first-generation immigrants Marcos and Maria Mendoza, the restaurant began as a 700 sq ft taquería in Long Beach before relocating to LA. Their dedication to fresh, handmade dishes built a loyal following, eventually allowing them to expand and open a second location in Bell, CA, in 2023.
Now led by the next generation Nayomie and Jackie Mendoza Cuernavaca’s Grill is embracing new growth opportunities while honoring its roots.
In 2024, Nayomie attended PACE’s Business Grant Workshop, where she learned how to identify funding sources and government contracts. She began one-on-one counseling with Cristina Espiritu, Procurement Manager at PACE, who helped her navigate RFPs, refine capability statements, and register in procurement databases such as RAMPLA.
These efforts led to contracts with LA County and the LA Fire Department, as well as new catering opportunities. PACE continues to share relevant RFPs, keeping the business connected to ongoing opportunities.
The restaurant’s momentum also attracted brand collaborations, including a partnership with Strawberry Shortcake during Hispanic Heritage Month. In 2024, the business received a $75,000 grant from Siete Foods, presented on The Drew Barrymore Show, providing critical funding for expansion.
From a humble taquería to a growing, multi-location business, Cuernavaca’s Grill continues to serve the flavors of Mexico while building local economic impact with PACE by their side every step of the way.
OF
Scott Richter
Owner
Scott’s Malibu Market
Malibu Country Mart
3900 Cross Creek Rd, Ste 3
Malibu, CA 90265 (310) 456-0177
Malibu Hospitality, DBA Scott's Malibu Market, is nestled between the scenic mountains and beaches of Malibu. Just steps from the shore, this vibrant café and market offers a relaxed yet elevated experience for both locals and tourists
Scott’s Malibu Market blends a café and sit-down restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual deli-style setting. The menu features freshly prepared items such as artisanal toast, coffee, sandwiches, paninis, salads, bowls, and hot meals all available for dine-in, takeout, or pickup.
Scott previously operated Spring St. Café in Downtown LA before launching this new concept in Malibu Village. In 2023, PACE helped secure a $350,000 loan to support the expansion.
After 18 months of tenant improvements, the store opened with a soft launch in September 2024. Despite launching during the off-peak season, sales steadily increased. However, in December 2024, a Malibu wildfire forced the business to close for five days. Then, in January 2025, the Pacific Palisades fire led to another 10-day closure.
In response, PACE provided immediate support, approving a three-month interest-only relief plan within five days. PACE also assisted with the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) process. After the initial denial, PACE provided technical support and damage calculations for an appeal
In February 2025, the SBA approved a $305,000 EIDL loan, offering critical financial relief. PACE continues to support Scott’s Malibu Market with procurement opportunities, helping the business recover, grow, and thrive along California’s iconic coast.
Adam & Bethany White
Co-Owners
Fixed Dimensions 4818 W 130th Street
Hawthorne, CA, 90250
(619) 306-5110
Adam and Bethany White, co-owners of Fixed Dimensions, built their finish carpentry business on a foundation of generational craftsmanship and resilience. Adam, a thirdgeneration carpenter, honed his skills early and later transitioned from cabinet building to installation, learning to navigate real-world construction challenges.
After moving to Hawthorne in 2014, they launched their own business. Beth, with a background in event management, joined full-time in 2016 to manage operations, and together they began servicing high-end residential clients. But when COVID-19 hit, they saw the need to pivot to public works.
The transition wasn’t easy. They faced new regulations, compliance issues, and payment delays of up to 90 days To stay afloat, they relied on a COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) for working capital. In 2022, they met Merriwether & Williams Insurance Services at a networking event, who connected them with PACE’s Business Development Center. With support from PACE, they secured bonding and a working capital loan, enabling them to bid on projects up to $1.5 million.
They also enrolled in PACE's Contract Award & Management Academy and began pursuing key certifications. With Beth owning 51% of the company, Fixed Dimensions is currently seeking certification as a Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE), and plans to obtain DBE/SBE certification with LA Metro vital steps to increase their contracting opportunities
Now known for their quality work on affordable housing and Apple Inc. projects, Fixed Dimensions continues to grow, committed to excellence, financial stability, and giving back through skilled union employment.
WOMEN
OF Frank La
Founder & CEO
Be Bright Coffee
7311 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 413-2338
Minority-Owned Business in Los Angeles Receives $50,000 Working Capital Loan to Open First Coffee Shop on Melrose!
Frank La, founder of Be Bright Coffee, embodies perseverance and determination. After years of dreaming about opening a café, he turned vision into reality in October 2022 by launching his first brick-and-mortar shop in the heart of Hollywood. With support from the Hollywood BusinessSource Center and a $50,000 working capital loan from PACE (Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment), Frank was able to secure the funding needed to make it happen.
“Access to capital is critical for startups like ours,” Frank shared. “The loan helped cover major expenses like countertop installation, giving our café a clean, modern look.”
To cut costs, Frank and his family painted the interior and storefront themselves, giving the space a vibrant and inviting feel. The journey began in 2021, when Be Bright Coffee first started as a vendor at Smorgasburg LA, offering specialty coffee and catering services at community and corporate events
Although Frank was initially denied a loan, he remained committed. With guidance from the PACE Business Development Center, he focused on building brand awareness, starting small through e-commerce and local events. He steadily built momentum and market presence.
Two years later, Frank’s persistence paid off. With stronger financials, brand credibility, and a solid business plan, he qualified for the loan and opened his café on Melrose Avenue. Be Bright Coffee now stands as a vibrant, community-rooted shop and a testament to the power of resilience, family support, and small business resources like PACE
Michelle Lainez
Founder
Chef Michelle and Company 672 S Santa Fe Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90021
(626) 399-3007
Chef Michelle and Company is a Los Angeles County-based catering business founded in 2021 by Michelle Lainez.
The company office is located in the city of La Puente, within LA County District 1, an unincorporated area, while food preparation operations take place at 672 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Michelle owned and operated a successful food truck, building a loyal customer base. Unfortunately, the pandemic forced her to close that business.
Determined to rebuild, Michelle began revamping her business in late 2021 with a focus on catering. With support from Jennifer Whelan, Senior Loan Counselor at PACE, she successfully applied for a grant that provided essential funding for startup costs and marketing efforts.
Today, Chef Michelle and Company is a thriving full-service catering business that promotes zero waste and conscious eating by sourcing ingredients from local farmers and artisans. Whether catering an intimate dinner at a private residence or a large-scale celebration, Chef Michelle delivers unforgettable, curated culinary experiences.
“The grant that I received helped me relaunch my business and got me to where I am now. I just learned about PACE’s technical support services under the ProcureLA program, and I look forward to working with the PACE procurement team to bring my business to the next level.”
OF Rita Makmura
Co-Owner
MXF Designs Inc. 5327 Valley Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90032
(323) 266-1451
MXF Designs Inc., under the label NALLY & MILLIE, was founded 24 years ago. Two of the company's dedicated original employees, Rita and Nicole, have since taken the reins, continuing the legacy of the brand. Their collections remain rooted in timeless favorites, while also evolving to incorporate new styles, fabrics, and prints. The goal is to offer knitwear that is both comfortable enough for home and stylish enough for going out.
During the transition in ownership, the business required additional working capital. With the guidance and support of Jennifer Whelan, Senior Loan Counselor at PACE, Rita and Nicole successfully secured a loan to support the company’s next phase of growth.
Today, MXF Designs Inc. operates a state-of-the-art, 30,000-square-foot production facility in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, employing over 30 skilled professionals. The company specializes in high-quality, customized apparel for a wide range of industries.
With decades of experience in apparel manufacturing, MXF offers end-to-end services—from initial design to final production. Their skilled team and commitment to sustainability allow them to meet the diverse and evolving needs of their clients.
PACE continues to support MXF by providing procurement services, connecting the company with government agencies and large corporations in need of bulk apparel orders such as uniforms, T-shirts, and other garments PACE is proud to be a partner in MXF’s ongoing success and growth.
“PACE’ support & guidance means a lot to us. We feel like we have a partner on our side to help us grow”
OF Kala Maxyum
Owner
The Chocolatye Dispensary
1605 Grafton Street., Ste 102A
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(917) 690-2979
From lease signing to opening day, we launched our café in just three weeks—and officially opened for business only six months later. This achievement would not have been possible without the incredible support from the team at PACE.
PACE provided invaluable guidance, including legal and incorporation resources, marketing and PR strategies, and introductions to key city agencies and officials. Through countless Zoom meetings, we gained a deep understanding of complex permitting, licensing, and city processes.
A turning point was PACE’s referral to a free expeditor at the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS), who helped us navigate plan reviews and agency hurdles. Thanks to this, we earned final approvals quickly and even received an “A” on our very first health inspection.
Today, we are seeing the results of that early support. We’re on track to reach $300,000 in sales this month, a 3,200% increase over our 2024 revenue At this pace, we’re projected to surpass $500,000 in our first full year. In January 2025, we eloped in Belize on the same day LA wildfires broke out. We closed briefly but rallied to donate $1,000 worth of chocolate to five local firehouses, supported by our customers using a special promo code.
We've also received wide press coverage, including features in NBC Los Angeles, LAist, Spectrum News, and a special airing on NBC’s California Live on July 7 for National Chocolate Day. We’re deeply grateful to PACE for helping lay the foundation of our growing success.
WOMEN
OF
Yong Ho Kim
Owner
Arado Japanese Restaurant 4001 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90010
(213) 387-1199
Established in 1995, Arado Japanese Restaurant has long been a cultural staple in Los Angeles. Owned by Korean immigrant Yongho Kim, Arado blends traditional Japanese flavors with heartfelt hospitality and consistent service. For over 25 years, it thrived as a beloved, family-run restaurant with loyal customers citywide.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges—indoor dining restrictions, declining foot traffic, and rising costs forced Mr. Kim to scale down operations and even temporarily close. The future of Arado was uncertain. A turning point came when Arado was selected as a Legacy Business by the City of Los Angeles. With support from the Los Angeles BusinessSource Center (LABSC) Pico-Union/Westlake (PUW), operated by PACE Business Development Center, Mr. Kim received a business revitalization grant to help restore and preserve his restaurant. He was able to retain nine full-time and six part-time staff, and invest in key improvements.
Through every step, PACE Counselor Jeanie Yang provided hands-on assistance—from completing the legacy grant application to developing a tailored recovery plan. She also advised Mr. Kim on marketing strategies, operational improvements, and post-pandemic customer engagement.
Today, Arado is once again a vibrant neighborhood gathering place, offering refreshed dinein service and seasonal specials that honor its culinary roots “Arado is more than a restaurant it’s a home for our community,” said Mr. Kim. “Thanks to the Legacy Program and Counselor Jeanie Yang, we can continue sharing our culture through food.”
Mr. Kim plans to keep working with LABSC PUW to grow digitally and mentor local entrepreneurs.
OF
Meymuna Hussein-Cattan
Founder
Flavor from Afar
5652 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028
(562) 719-6704
A Taste of Resilience: Meymuna’s Journey to Open Flavors from Afar! Born in an Ethiopian refugee camp in Somalia, Meymuna’s life began with immense challenges. After moving to the U.S. at age three, her journey was defined by resilience and determination. Years of hard work and passion led her to launch Flavors from Afar, a business she had dreamed of her whole life.
Flavors from Afar is a catering and event service that celebrates global cuisine and cultural exchange. Featuring chefs from refugee and immigrant backgrounds, the business offers Los Angeles food lovers access to hard-to-find dishes rooted in heritage and homemade care.
After relocating her business to Hollywood Blvd., Meymuna encountered an unexpected roadblock: her new space was not ADA-compliant, a critical oversight by her contractor. Unable to open to the public and with funds dwindling, she needed urgent support.
She turned to the Hollywood Region LABSC, operated by PACE, where she met Vartoohi Andreassian, Business Counseling Manager. Together, they navigated ADA compliance, permitting needs, and funding access. With PACE’s help, Meymuna secured $29,000 through alternative sources to complete the necessary construction updates.
Now, with work completion and city approvals, she opened her restaurant in early 2025. “I’m deeply grateful to PACE for believing in my vision,” said Meymuna “Their support helped me overcome this major hurdle and bring my dream closer to reality.”
Meymuna’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with perseverance, community support, and the right resources. We’re honored to be part of her journey.
