Sonoma County launches new program to support food entrepreneurs

En español »

Just in time for Small Business Week, Sonoma County is proud to launch Pasos, a first-of-its-kind, interdepartmental initiative designed to help Spanish-speaking food entrepreneurs turn their dreams into thriving businesses by providing culturally competent support.

Developed through a collaboration between Sonoma County Environmental Health, Permit Sonoma, the Economic Development Collaborative, and the County Clerk-Recorder-Assessor's Office, Pasos aims to simplify the complex permitting process for food service businesses. From Micro Enterprise Home Kitchens to tamale carts to full-scale restaurants, the program breaks the process into clear, step-by-step instructions with bilingual videos, easy-to-use websites, and in-person workshops and community connections.

“Pasos demonstrates our commitment to help turn local recipes and big dreams into thriving businesses,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. “By connecting entrepreneurs with clear guidance and community support, we’re removing barriers and fostering a vibrant food scene in Sonoma County.”

The program, which launched this week, was developed in collaboration with trusted local partners, including the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the RedLatinx Hub, and the Los Cien program, and includes a series of workshops and community outreach activities.

“Pasos celebrates our entire community. People come together best around food. When we break bread, we create trust,” said Permit Sonoma Director Tennis Wick. “Pasos focuses on the needs of the businessperson first and creates a program from their perspective. Pasos starts with them and, step by step, creates a regulatory path to support their success.”

“Pasos connects local entrepreneurs with the information and community support they need — before costly mistakes are made,” said Marcos Suarez, EDC department program manager, emphasizing the importance of utilizing county resources like Pasos.

Upcoming workshops:

• May 7 – RedLatinx The Hub, 2455 Bennett Valley Road. Suite B314, Santa Rosa
• Aug. 27 – RedLatinx The Hub, 2455 Bennett Valley Road. Suite B314, Santa Rosa

To learn more or to get started, visit https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/pasos

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Media Contact:
Genevieve Bertone
Permit Sonoma Department Program Manager, Outreach
generalplan@sonoma-county.org
(707) 565- 1231