San Diego businessman highlights role of international food markets in cultural exchange and community building
SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 31, 2024 / Javid Javdani, owner of Balboa Market in San Diego, is raising awareness about the importance of supporting small businesses, particularly international food markets, as essential cultural and community resources. Their business, Balboa Market, has become a meeting space where food fosters connection and cultural exchange. Javdani’s unique perspective as an immigrant and entrepreneur has underscored the critical need for support for small businesses, especially as they strive to serve diverse populations and maintain cultural traditions.
“Small businesses are not limited to commerce,” says Javdani. “It’s about building communities, uniting cultures and preserving heritage.” Small businesses represent almost 99.8% of all companies in California, according to the Small Business Administration (SBA), and employ nearly half of the state’s workforce, underscoring their economic and social importance.
However, small businesses often face obstacles, particularly in obtaining financing and navigating complex regulations. “The biggest challenge I have encountered as a small business owner is accessing capital to sustain and expand our services,” explains Javdani. A recent SBA report reveals that 42% of small businesses in California struggle to obtain sufficient financing-a statistic that Javdani finds worrying. “With more financial support and resources, these companies could achieve much more for the communities they serve,” he adds.
Javdani believes international food markets, like Balboa Market, serve as more than just places to shop. “Food has a way of connecting people, whether it’s giving immigrants a taste of home or introducing them to new flavors and traditions,” he says. Their market hosts events, cooking classes, and tastings that allow customers to experience the diversity of world cultures in their neighborhood.
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California has almost 4.2 million small businessesrepresenting 99.8% of all companies in the state.
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42% of small businesses report problems with access to the financing necessary to maintain or grow.
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International food markets help preserve cultural heritage, support tourism and provide local jobs.
Javdani calls on state policymakers, financial institutions, and community leaders to consider expanded funding opportunities, mentorship programs, and regulatory support for small business owners. By implementing targeted support, he believes California can enable small businesses to reach their full potential and serve as thriving cultural centers.
“As we support small businesses, we invest in our communities and foster environments that celebrate diversity,” Javdani says.
Media contact
Javid Javdani
https://javidjavdani.com/
[email protected]
FOUNTAIN: Javid Javdani