 When David Lim opened Offstage Dance Studio in 2021, his vision was clear: create a vibrant, community-first dance space where people of all ages could learn, perform, and grow together. In just a few years, his Anaheim-based studio became the home of powerhouse teams, quickly gaining recognition throughout Orange County for its high-level training and inclusive culture.
As the studio's reputation grew, so did its need for space. The demand for group classes, rehearsals, and training programs began to surpass the limitations of their leased location. David knew it was time to find a bigger, permanent home that could match Offstage’s energy and potential. With the help of So Cal CDC and the SBA 504 loan program, that dream became a reality. Offstage Dance Studio was able to purchase a 9,400 square foot industrial condominium in Anaheim — a space big enough to support its current programs and fuel future growth. The SBA 504 loan gave David access to long-term, fixed-rate financing with a low down payment, allowing him to invest in the studio’s future without compromising cash flow. The new facility has already made a huge impact, offering more class availability, expanded rehearsal spaces, and dedicated rooms for private instruction. Most importantly, it created room for six new job, boosting both the studio and the surrounding community. This project was not just about expanding, but also about creating stability and sustainability for the artists who call Offstage home... and with the support of the SBA 504 program, he’s done just that.
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 Cordova Construction Services stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and community support. Founded by an immigrant from El Salvador, the journey of Cordova Construction began humbly with just a pickup truck, a shovel, and a wheelbarrow. The founder, driven by the desire to build a better future for his family and community, worked tirelessly, taking on small projects and gradually building a reputation for quality and reliability. Through sheer determination, he navigated the challenges of entrepreneurial ventures, often making business decisions on instinct and unwavering grit.
Over the years, Cordova Construction grew from a one-man operation into a thriving business with a team of 60 dedicated employees and a fleet of advanced equipment and trucks. Yet, the road to success was not without its pitfalls. The company faced numerous ups and downs, including the economic instability brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, through every challenge, the founder's resilience and commitment to his vision saw the company through, allowing it to emerge stronger with each adversity. Recognizing the need for expansion to sustain their growth, Cordova Construction decided to take a bold step forward by acquiring an SBA 504 loan through So Cal CDC. This strategic move enabled them to purchase an adjacent property, which was transformed into a space for in-house maintenance, thus reducing operational costs and creating new job opportunities. The partnership with So Cal CDC proved to be invaluable, providing not only financial assistance but also connecting the business with essential resources like an accounting firm and a business lawyer. This guidance helped restructure the business for better financial management and legal protection, setting the foundation for future growth. Cordova Construction’s plans for the future are ambitious yet grounded in their core mission to support the community. They aim to take on more customers and larger projects, expand their property, and hire additional staff, thereby creating more jobs for local families. The founder’s journey—from a solitary immigrant entrepreneur to the leader of a thriving business—serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved with perseverance, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to community development.  Best Western Posada Royale, a remarkable hotel that embarked on its journey in 2002, has flourished into a beacon of hospitality. Starting with a single property, the owners' passion and dedication to the industry have propelled them to currently manage four thriving locations. The path to success has been anything but smooth; they have faced numerous challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the adversities, the owners' unwavering commitment and love for the hospitality industry have seen them through the toughest of times.
Throughout their journey, the owners of Posada Royale have met countless amazing individuals who have become instrumental in their growth and success. One significant contributor to their journey has been So Cal CDC, a small business loan lender. During challenging times, So Cal CDC provided the critical financial support needed to overcome obstacles. The SBA 504 loan from So Cal CDC was particularly pivotal, allowing the owners to undertake essential maintenance, upgrades, and renovations to their Simi Valley property. This financial cushion enabled them to enhance the guest experience, ensuring that visitors leave with unforgettable memories. Looking ahead, Posada Royale aims to create a haven where guests love to return. Their plans for the future include ongoing preventative maintenance and keeping their properties in pristine condition. The owners remain eternally grateful to So Cal CDC for their indispensable support, which has made their vision a reality. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a community of supportive partners, Posada Royale is poised for continued success, delighting guests for years to come.  Kyle and Vanessa, the passionate owners of Evo Tae Kwon Do Academy in Lancaster, California, have an inspiring success story that highlights the transformative power of determination, community support, and strategic financial planning. With Kyle's extensive background in martial arts since 2002 and a degree in education, the couple founded their school with a mission to nurture the character development of children. Beyond martial arts lessons, their comprehensive programs include tutoring, an after-school program, anti-bullying training, piano and guitar lessons, and various other enriching activities, all designed to support kids in their academic and personal growth.
However, the rapid growth of their school soon presented a significant challenge. The limited space and exorbitant rent of their facility were constraining their ability to accommodate more students and expand their services. Seeking a solution, Kyle and Vanessa reached out to SCORE, a resource that introduced them to the possibility of acquiring an SBA loan. This connection led them to So Cal CDC, where they were guided through the process of obtaining an SBA 504 loan. This loan allowed them to purchase a larger building, thereby becoming their own landlords, reducing their monthly expenses, and eliminating constraints. Yet, the onset of COVID-19 posed another unexpected and severe challenge to their business. Despite the difficulties, the invaluable support from So Cal CDC enabled Kyle and Vanessa to persevere. The assistance they received, including securing a PPP loan, was instrumental in navigating the hardships of the pandemic. Today, Kyle and Vanessa's school has rebounded and continues to grow, providing essential opportunities for children in their community. They attribute their continued success and resilience to the critical support and resources provided by So Cal CDC and the SBA 504 loan program, affirming that such help was indeed "priceless."  As we enter the new year, many of us are filled with excitement and hope for what's to come. It's a time to reflect on the past and set goals for the future. We are happy to share that we were able to close off 2023 on a positive note, setting the tone for 2024. We had the opportunity to fund a small business loan deal for Jose Manuel Saenz Luna, owner of M.S.L. Ferrier Services, this past month. M.S.L. Ferrier Services is a horse hauling business that was established five years ago, and since then has been galloping towards success.
Jose has come a long way in his entrepreneurship journey, paving his way in this industry over the last 10 years. Prior to starting his business, Jose worked in the horse hauling industry where he learned everything he needed to know to start M.S.L. Ferrier Services. After a few years, Jose decided to take a leap and create a company of his own with the knowledge and experience he had gained. Since starting M.S.L. Ferrier Services, Jose has been able to assist an abundance of individuals including equestrians, ranch owners, and anyone in need of transporting horses across southern and northern California. Although Jose’s business has been successful and continuously growing over the course of the 5 years, he decided its time for more. With his current truck and trailer, his capacity is limited, and with his constant flow of clients and referral opportunities he found himself to be in need of higher scale equipment. Jose then decided to pursue the route of acquiring a loan for the expansion of his business. Yet, after approaching many banks and direct lenders, he was continuously rejected. Being a primarily Spanish speaking individual, there have been multiple hurdles that Jose has needed to overcome to get to where he is today. Although Jose has faced many challenges, he is determined to make a name for himself and his business in this world, despite language and cultural barriers. When Jose ultimately came across our organization, he was pleased to hear that we prioritize assisting minority-owned businesses and were interested in pursuing his application with our direct lending partner, Altcap California. Together, our team and theirs committed to moving forward in the loan process and did everything in our power to assure he would see the day where he hears “loan approved”. From the first day, when Jose presented us with his situation and business goals, until the day we were able to fund, we stood by him each step of way assuring the process would run as smoothly as possible. Having a Spanish speaking representative working with Jose at every phase has also made this process much easier and more comfortable for him. This allowed for excellent communication between Jose and our team throughout the entirety of the loan process. Finally, we were able to get his application approved and were able to move forward with closing his first loan. Although the small business loan process is not always a swift one, we ensured we were able to close the deal in a timely manner to allow Jose to purchase the equipment necessary to expand and assist his clientele. Jose was seeking $70,000 in financing to purchase an additional truck (2015 Ram 5500) along with a large horse trailer that has a capacity of transporting up to seven horses at once. After all of the “no’s” Jose heard in his pursuit of acquiring a loan, we finally reached the day we were able to say “YES!”. We funded the loan for M.S.L. Ferrier Services in December 2023, and this financing will grant him the opportunity to grow his client base and as a result, grow his business. In this new year, Jose plans on gaining more clients and expanding his services. With the help of So Cal CDC and Altcap California, we made this dream achievable for him. So, let's take a moment to celebrate the possibilities of the new year and the success stories that are waiting to be written. We are So Cal CDC, and we are here to deliver small business success.  The journey from Michoacán, Mexico through many cities leading them to Los Angeles, California the Zamorana Family finally made it. La Zamorana Candy Company produces and serves popular enjoyable original Mexican candy. It all started in the year 1957, Jose Mendez, founder of the company, left his family from Michoacán to chase after his dreams. In high hopes of finding work in the United States, Jose traveled to many cities and worked various jobs. When Jose reached Southern California he worked many labor jobs, but one specifically spoke out to him. He worked in a chocolate factory which gave him the inspiration to begin his own candy company. This was the beginning of “La Zamorana Candy Company”. Jose first put his idea to work by opening a kitchen in East Los Angeles and constantly relocated. Throughout the long process, the hard work finally paid off and Jose was able to be reunited with his family, as they moved from Mexico to the U.S. Finally, in the 1980’s the kitchen grew to transition into a factory and soon called East Olympic it’s home. For years after that, the family continued to advance products while holding the family’s traditions.
To this day, they continue growing and expanding their company, adding locations in Southern California area and throughout the United States. One location added to their expansion plan was put in place with the help of SoCal CDC. This industrial property is now located in Los Angeles, California, consisting of 10,173 square feet. Without the 504 loan program offered here at SoCal CDC, this new addition to the company would not be possible. This program allowed us to provide up to 90% financing, helping the family take their dreams even further.Although many struggles were faced, success isn’t achievable without the battle. This candy company took a lot to get to where it’s at, but with time and effort it was all possible. Thanks to this, the Zamorana family will mark their 50th anniversary serving friends and family. High-end apparel company “Genexus” is still continuing down the road of success, not stopping at any cost. The successful company, still growing today, designs and creates clothing for all ages and genders. Genexus International, Inc. was established in the year 1995 by two brothers, Tso Kwong Yeung and Paul Shek Hau Yeung. Both attended Hong Kong University and made their way to the United States to achieve the dreams they aspired to and put their design skills to work. Brothers Tao and Shek always had a passion for fashion, consistently working in manufacturing companies and warehouses for apparel design until they decided to start up something of their own. The skills they obtained working in these apparel design companies gained them further knowledge and management experience, making them capable of starting their own family business. The brothers have been very successful with their company to this day, growing to become maybe a little bigger than expected. Genexus is currently located in a Torrance Warehouse, Newport Beach office. LA and NYC showroom. Although these locations have aided the success of the company, it has progressed immensely to the point of overgrowing each property. If they wanted to continue expanding, they knew they needed to purchase a new subject property to allow the company to be run more efficiently. How would they be able to do so?
With the help of SoCal CDC we were able to guide them in finding the perfect solution. We offer the 504 loan program, which grants us to assist these business owners by providing up to 90% financing for the purchase of a building to expand their company, with only a 10% injection. The 504 loan program serviced the acquisition of the industrial property now located in Gardena CA. This property consists of a 41,142 square foot two story industrial building/warehouse that is situated on 1.84 acres of fenced land. This loan program made the lives of Tao and Shek a lot easier! With the purchase of the subject property they will be able to bring all 4 locations together and allow the business to continue to grow under one roof and save on tons of expenses. SoCal CDC is always here to help business owners pursue their ambitions.  Present business owner, Thomas Dam, obtained a Master's Degree in finance from Cal State Long Beach University in the year 1990. In 1995, shortly after graduating, he purchased the existing struggling company “AA Laboratory Eggs” and paired up with his wife to run this business. AA Laboratory Eggs company specializes in producing fertile and embryonic duck eggs which are then sold for: incubation, biological research, vaccine manufacturing, egg food products, and egg shells for art and hobby decorating. Thomas Dan has his own personal farm where he maintains ducks which produce eggs for the company. Thomas and his wife were capable of completely turning the company around and making it profitable. Chi Le ,wife, holds many connections within the pharmaceutical industry, making her a very important asset for the current standing of the company. Although they were making a profit off of the company already, they grew to exceed their capacity in their current facility and decided they wanted to expand. They had visions and weren’t going to stop just yet. Due to the fact that they had 24 years of successful operation, they were approved for the 504 loan program. The purpose of the loan was for the acquisition of the commercial property located in San Bernardino, CA; containing a square footage of 2,603 feet. This opportunity pushed them in the right direction to reach prosperity and further growth with their business.
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