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South Asian Network

South Asian Network

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Home » SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

Introducing Our Small Business Program

SABZ: Helping South Asian entrepreneurs grow through funding, mentorship, and exposure.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Rooted in the rich cultural communities of Little India and Little Bangladesh, the SABZ Program (South Asian Business Support Program) is a new initiative by the South Asian Network (SAN) dedicated to empowering South Asian small business owners across Southern California. SABZ provides tailored support, with a focus on expanding access to capital, building financial resilience, and creating sustainable paths to growth for South Asian entrepreneurs.

OUR GOALS

  • Increase Access to Capital – Facilitate connections to Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)
  • Strengthen Business Resilience – Support sustainable operations through mentorship, education, and resources
  • Empower Cultural Communities – Uplift South Asian-owned businesses in immigrant-rich neighborhoods
  • Ensure Long-Term Impact – Identify and develop sustainable funding streams to maintain ongoing support

WHAT WE OFFER

  • Personalized Business Consulting – Strategy sessions with small business advisors
  • Access to Funding & CDFIs – Direct connections and guidance to secure financing
  • Financial Literacy Workshops – Training on budgeting, credit, and long-term planning
  • Community-Centered Support – Grounded in cultural understanding and multilingual access
  • Visibility & Promotion – Highlighting businesses across SAN’s platforms and networks

WHO SHOULD JOIN?

The SABZ Program is designed for:

  • South Asian business owners and entrepreneurs (including Bangladeshi, Indian, Pakistani, Nepali, Sri Lankan, Afghan, Bhutanese, and more)
  • Small businesses located in Los Angeles County, especially within Little India, Little Bangladesh, and nearby communities
  • Entrepreneurs looking to grow, recover, or stabilize their businesses through sustainable support
APPLY NOW – EMAIL [email protected]
READ OUR SMALL BUSINESS REPORT HERE

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South Asian Network

southasiannetwork

Geared towards serving, supporting, uplifting, and educating Southern California's South Asian community

Trailblazers, we are looking for you 👀🫡 We’re acc Trailblazers, we are looking for you 👀🫡

We’re accepting applications for SAN’s Youth Leadership Program!! This is a a year-long opportunity for young people (ages 14 to 22) to develop leadership, advocacy, research, organizing, and community engagement skills while working on projects that impact the South Asian community.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to learn, grow, get involved in the community and gain leadership skills, this is the program for you 🫵

Click the link in our bio to learn more and apply or share with someone who’d be a perfect fit!! We can’t wait 🥳

#internship #southasianyouth #layouth #youthproject #sanyouth
We hosted our first Health Camp in Santa Ana this We hosted our first Health Camp in Santa Ana this June, and our hearts are so full! 🌟

Thank you to everyone who showed up, supported, and poured so much love into this day. We’re so happy and grateful to have shared this moment with our community.

A special thanks to our screening partners @apahcucla, @ecnpurpose and @westcoastdental as well as all of our amazing community partners for their partnership and support, we truly couldn’t have done this without you. This first health camp was about more than services; it was about connection, empowerment, and equity.

A huge thank you to the Islamic Center of Santa Ana for allowing us to use their space to host this event! 

We can’t wait to grow this with you and see you again next year! 🤗💪

@projectopenwide @olivecommunityservices @chirla_org @mercyhealthofficial @shfboc @santaanacollege @worldrelief @cathyduong @scuhs @caloptima

Photo Credit: @attabikshah
There are some moments when staying on the sidelin There are some moments when staying on the sidelines simply isn’t an option. The fight over birthright citizenship was one of those moments. For generations, the 14th amendment has made a simple promise: if you’re born in the United States, you’re a citizen. It’s a principle that has helped define our country for more than 150 years and has given millions of families a sense of belonging, security, and hope.

When that promise was challenged, organizations across the country stepped up to defend it. SAN was proud to be one of them. We joined the amicus brief led by the South Asian American Justice Collaborative (SAAJCO) because we believe constitutional rights are worth protecting, especially when they affect the communities we serve every day. Our Executive Director, Shakeel Syed, also traveled to Washington, D.C., and stood outside the U.S. Supreme Court during oral arguments, alongside advocates and partners from across the country who came together to defend this fundamental principle.

We’re proud that SAN  had the opportunity to add our voice to that effort, because this is exactly why organizations like ours exist, to show up when our communities need us, to speak up when rights are threatened, and to stand alongside partners working toward a more just and inclusive future.

This work doesn’t end with one court case. It never does. But moments like this remind us that when communities come together, our voices matter. And that’s something worth celebrating. 

We are not done. The fight continues. We pledge to continue to stand on the right side of history & invite you to stand with us by supporting us.
SAN IS HIRING!! We’re growing and we’d love for SAN IS HIRING!! 

We’re growing and we’d love for you to grow with us! We’re looking for a

1. Immigration Attorney &
2. Family Law Attorney

If you’re passionate about serving the community, making an impact, and working with a team that truly cares, this might be your sign! We’re looking for dedicated, compassionate, and driven professionals ready to make a difference every day 🧡

📩Apply today or share this someone who would be a perfect fit! 

Learn more on our website or click the link in our bio to apply!

#southasiannetwork #workwithus #hiring #lajobs #southasiannonprofit
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day! June 15th is Wor World Elder Abuse Awareness Day!

June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Each year, an estimated 5 million older adults experience abuse, neglect or exploitation. South Asian American elders face specific vulnerabilities due to various factors like multi-generational living, cultural stigmas, and family reputation around mental health. Common forms of mistreatment include financial exploitation, emotional manipulation, social isolation, and medical or dietary neglect by caregivers or family members. 

Through our work supporting older adults in our community, we continue to learn from their strength, wisdom and resilience. Together, we can help raise awareness and create a community where our older adults feel valued, heard and protected. 

@futureswithoutviolence 

#worldelderabuseawarenessday #southasiannetwork #southasianelders #southasiannonprofit
Join SAN for an AWAZ Dialogue Night, a town hall f Join SAN for an AWAZ Dialogue Night, a town hall focused on reducing stigma around learning disabilities and developmental delays. We’ll talk about understanding developmental and behavioral needs in children, addressing stigma and denial in the community and how parents and caregivers can better support their child. 

There will also be a brief session on emergency planning for families, covering personalized preparedness plans, communication and support needs during emergencies, local safety resources, and immigration-focused emergency preparedness, including Know Your Rights information for families. 

Representatives from Lanterman Regional Center and Westside Regional Center will join the discussion. 

We hope to see you all there 🪷💕

Date: Friday, June 26, 2026
Time: 5:00 – 7:30 PM
📍SAN’s LA Office | 154 S. Vermont Ave, LA, 90004

Rsvp now: tinyurl.com/awaztownhall or click the link in our bio

#southasiannetwork #southasian #townhall #events #nonprofit
We asked folks to share one word that describes th We asked folks to share one word that describes the API Youth Forum and the answers say it all 💛

Community. Empowering. Inspiring. Connection. Joy.

And with that, that’s a wrap on the API Youth Forum! 🎉 Thank you to everyone who joined us, shared space, learned something new, and helped make today so special. We’re grateful to have spent the day with you and can’t wait to see you again next year! ✨🫶🏽🌟
API YOUTH FORUM 2026 #Hear from our Program Co-Lea API YOUTH FORUM 2026
#Hear from our Program Co-Lead, Tonya, as she takes us through all of the amazing resource booths available today! ✨

@cpaforg @violencefreecpaf @saharacares @kfamla @sipacares @pflagsgvapi @gli.ib @mandeykim @acasghs @pacificclinics 

#apiyouthforum2026 #southasiannetwork #apiyf #cpafapiyf2026
In many South Asian families, new mothers are expe In many South Asian families, new mothers are expected to recover quietly, care for everyone around them, and keep moving forward.

But what happens when the sadness doesn’t go away?

Research shows South Asian immigrant mothers may face an even higher risk of postpartum depression than mothers born in countries like the U.S., U.K., and Canada. Yet many never receive mental health support because of stigma, isolation, language barriers, and pressure to “stay strong.” Maternal mental health matters. Support exists and recovery is possible. Swipe to learn more about the causes and ways to support yourself! 

#postpartummentalhealth #womenshealth #southasianwomen #southasianhealth #southasiannetwork
You might be losing wages at work and not even rea You might be losing wages at work and not even realize it.

Missed breaks. Unpaid overtime. Working off the clock. Missing pay stubs. These are some of the most common workplace violations affecting workers across California.

Through our California Workplace Outreach Project educational series, we’re breaking down worker rights, wage protections, and workplace safety information so you can better understand what you’re entitled to on the job. Over the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing more information about wage theft, workplace protections, safety rights, and resources available to workers in California.

Follow along, save this post, and share it with someone who could benefit from knowing their rights.

#workersrights #workplace #southasiannetwork #safety #californiaworkers
Healthcare and food assistance programs are changi Healthcare and food assistance programs are changing.

Upcoming federal and state policy changes may impact access to Medi-Cal, Medicaid, and CalFresh for many individuals and families. Stay informed, know your rights, and learn what these updates could mean for your community. Swipe through for key information and resources. ➡️

Questions about how these changes may affect you or your family? Reach out to SAN for support and information.

#southasiannetwork #medical #medicaid #southasiannonprofit #southasian
Happy Pride Month 🏳️‍🌈 Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Sout Happy Pride Month 🏳️‍🌈 

Celebrating LGBTQIA+ South Asian voices, histories, and movements that continue to build community, and belonging across generations and around the world 🪷

#pridemonth2026 #southasian #southasianqueercommunity #southasiannetwork
At our storytelling workshop, facilitated by our m At our storytelling workshop, facilitated by our mental health therapist Khadija, SAN seniors came together to reflect, create, and share their stories.

Through art, poetry, writing, and conversation, they shared memories, wisdom, and life experiences that connected us all. Thank you to everyone who opened their hearts and shared a piece of their story with us 🤍

#mentalhealthawarenessmonth #southasiannetwork #story #storytelling #southasian
Many of us grow up carrying responsibilities early Many of us grow up carrying responsibilities early, helping our families navigate systems, balancing expectations, caring for loved ones, or feeling pressure to always be strong.

Over time, that stress can show up in our bodies through exhaustion, anxiety, trouble sleeping, headaches, irritability, or feeling disconnected from ourselves.

The good news? Small acts of care can help your nervous system feel safer. Our EMH team has created this guide to help you better understand how stress affects the body and ways to support your well being!

Save this for later, and send it to someone who may need the reminder.

#mentalhealthawareness #stress #southasian #nonprofit #mentalhealth
Today, we celebrate a major milestone: SB 995, the Today, we celebrate a major milestone: SB 995, the Masuma Khan Justice Act, has passed the California State Senate with unanimous bipartisan support.

This progress would not be possible without years of advocacy from impacted community members, organizers, and coalition partners who have continued to push for accountability and humane treatment in immigration detention facilities.

Thank you to @sashareneeperez, our coalition partners, @chirla_org, @sikhamericans, @public_counsel , @jakaramovement, @aapiequityalliance and every community member who helped move this legislation forward.

SB 995 now advances to the State Assembly. We remain committed to ensuring that all people are treated with dignity and that facilities operating in California are held accountable to California standards.
For many South Asian families, conversations about For many South Asian families, conversations about voting don’t always happen at the dinner table.

Some of us grew up watching our parents work long hours, navigate language barriers, and focus on building a life for their families. Others may be the first in their family to vote, explain a ballot, or help a parent find a Vote Center.

But our voices matter.

The decisions made in our communities affect the things we rely on every day: healthcare, language access, schools, transportation, workers’ rights, and resources that help families thrive. That’s why voting is about more than casting a ballot. It’s about making sure our communities are seen, heard, and included.

This carousel covers important election dates, voter rights, and resources to help you feel informed and prepared.

Save this for later and share it with someone voting for the first time, a family member, or anyone who could use this information.

🗳️ Learn more through the link in our bio.

#southasian #southasianvoices #vote #southasiannonprofit #desivote
Immigrant communities, including many South Asian Immigrant communities, including many South Asian families are already facing barriers to healthcare, language access, and affordability. In California, immigrants make up 27% of the population but nearly 48% of the uninsured. 

These proposed budget cuts would only deepen those inequities. Our communities deserve care, dignity, and #Health4All, not more barriers. 

These aren’t just budget numbers, they affect people’s access to care, stability, and support. 

Tell your legislator our communities deserve better.
More info at bit.ly/4bE2Kgi or in @healthaccessca bio.
Eid Mubarak from all of us at South Asian Network Eid Mubarak from all of us at South Asian Network 🌙✨

Wishing you and your loved ones peace, joy, and countless blessings. May this day be filled with warmth, community, and moments that bring you closer to what matters most.
YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR $120 PER CHILD IN SUMMER FOOD YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR $120 PER CHILD IN SUMMER FOOD SUPPORT! 

California families can get $120 per child with SUN Bucks and enjoy free meals all summer with SUN Meals.
SUN Bucks = $40/month for groceries in June, July & August = $120 in total

Many families qualify quietly and never hear about programs like this. Community care also means sharing resources.

Send this to someone with school-aged children! Link in our bio for additional information. 

#sunbucks #freesummermeals #southasian #foodsupport
FREE HEALTH CLINIC IN ORANGE COUNTY! Join us for FREE HEALTH CLINIC IN ORANGE COUNTY! 

Join us for a day of wellness, connection, and community at the SAN Community Health Clinic! 💗 

From free health screenings and dental checkups to healthcare enrollment support and mental health resources, we’re bringing essential services directly to the community.

Saturday, June 20, 2026
11AM–3PM
📍Islamic Center of Santa Ana

Whether you’re stopping by for resources, volunteering, or just wanting to connect, everyone is welcome 🥳

#communityclinic #ocevents #southasianhealth #mayevents #heathclinic
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18173 Pioneer Blvd., Suite “I”, Artesia, CA 90701
Phone: 562-403-0488 • E-mail: [email protected]
Office Hours: 9 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday.


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