Izell Leonard, CEO of Tastebud Approved, was running his business on the side while working a full-time job with the dream of transitioning into a full-time entrepreneur. With the support and resources from the Watts BusinessSource Center (BSC), Leonard has taken strides to make his vision a reality. Leonard collaborated with the BSC to create a comprehensive plan that aligned with his long-term goal of opening a restaurant in Watts, a community he is deeply passionate about serving.
Together, they reviewed and revamped his business plan, expanded the scope to highlight his ability to offer healthy, balanced meals, and provided industry-specific feedback and assistance from a web developer to reimagine his online presence. They also provided one-on-one coaching to perfect Leonard’s pitch and secured a $50,000 loan to purchase all the equipment needed for his new brick-and-mortar eatery.
Leonard’s journey from side hustler to full-time entrepreneur is a testament to his passion, resilience, and determination. It’s a shining example of the invaluable support and resources available through the Watts BSC. “I was able to get the help and support I needed to move things forward,” Leonard shares. Tastebud Approved will officially open this month as a healthy food eatery in Watts, providing the community with a much-needed option for delicious and nutritious meals. We are proud to celebrate his success and look forward to the positive impact Tastebud Approved will have on the Watts community.
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.
