City economic development officials hail JEDI zone microloan as Cafe Bodega reopens on Pacific Avenue

Councilmember Tim McCosker and staff from the Economic & Workforce Development Department described a newly designated Jobs and Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) zone on Pacific Avenue during a CityBeat segment tied to the Nov. 7 Council program.

EWDD staff said a neighborhood qualifies as a JEDI zone if it falls in an underserved or low- to moderate-income area, or is within a previously designated redevelopment area; once designated, a corridor becomes eligible for a suite of city tools including microloans, permit-waiver assistance, technical support and façade or storefront repairs. The department urged businesses and the public to consult EWDD’s website at ewdd.lacity.gov for program details.

Sandy, the proprietor of Cafe Bodega in San Pedro, said the city microloan “helped me finish up construction” and paid for expensive coffee equipment and some kitchen furnishings. An EWDD official said the microloan component rolled out “a little over a couple of months ago” and that Cafe Bodega is the first recipient.

Why it matters: JEDI zones are a targeted economic development tool designed to reduce upfront costs and regulatory barriers for small businesses in underserved corridors. The microloan program’s launch and a first recipient make the program operational and provide an example other small businesses may follow.

What the Council did: The segment was informational and celebratory; no ordinance or specific Council funding was adopted during the presentation. EWDD staff asked constituents to visit their web portal for eligibility criteria and application instructions.

Who spoke: Councilmember Tim McCosker (as referenced in the CityBeat segment), EWDD staff, and Sandy, owner of Cafe Bodega.

Clarifying note: Program details cited in the segment (loan timing, eligible services) were described by department staff and the small-business recipient. Exact loan amounts and long-term program funding sources were not specified in the segment.