The San Francisco Visitor and Convention Bureau (SFCVB) has awarded the first of a group of local small business grants with the intention of extending San Francisco's tourism industry into the city's diverse neighborhoods. Each business was chosen by a panel representing the Mayor’s Office of Economic and Workforce Development, the San Francisco Office of Small Business, the SFCVB Community Partnership Council and SFCVB staff. The businesses were chosen according to several factors including the unique “Only in San Francisco” nature of their businesses, the potential to attract visitors to their neighborhoods and their commitment to participate fully in the program.
The first 8 participants have been selected and include some very unique small businesses such as Mama Art Cafe, an organic cafe and art house located in the Excelsior District; Passion Cafe, known for it's good food and unique setting, a 100 year old building, located in SOMA; Paul's Hat Works, in business since 1918 and located in the Richmond District; Paxton Gate, a taxidermy, landscape and architecture business located in the Mission; Pralines by Yvonne, specializing in southern style desserts located in the Bayiew District; Siegel's Superstore and Tuxedos, in business since 1889 located in the Mission District; Taco Shop at Underdogs, a combination tacqueria sports bar located in the Sunset District and Treasure Island Wines, a boutique, urban winery collective located on Treasure Island.
These businesses will receive a one year SFCVB membership, including all bureau membership benefits such as a listing online and in publications and access to the convention calendar. As well as admission to SFCVB events including the Annual Luncheon, Market Briefings and Outlook Forums, which often include one-on-one meetings with presenters. The grants also include mentoring by members of the SFCVB professional staff and specially selected Bureau members.
