Success Story: The Level Up Store

Looking Good in Inglewood with The Level Up Store

Location: Southern California | Los Angeles County | Inglewood

Business Type: Clothing and apparel

Small Business Center: Macedonia Community Development Corporation

Assistance Received: Access to capital and training

Visit The Level Up Store online

Watch this video showcasing the press conference announcing how The Level Up Store owner Ron Gibson’s chance encounter with Congresswoman Maxine Waters led to being connected with CalOSBA partner Macedonia Community Development Corporation (CDC) and the funding needed to help his business thrive.

“I was sitting on the curb in front of The Level Up Store when I saw a car make a U-turn and stop in front of me. It was Congresswoman Maxine Water who wanted to introduce herself to me,” shared Ron. “By the end of the conversation, she understood I needed working capital but could not get approved for a loan. It was then she said Macedonia CDC will help you and here I am.”

Following intense one on one sessions with Macedonia CDC staff, preparing financial documents, and honing The Level Up Store story, Ron secured the capital he needed.  Mission Valley Bank loaned Ron the funds to finish the remodel of his brick-and-mortar store and fill it with inventory.

The Macedonia CDC, a non-profit organization, is based in the Watts section of Los Angeles to provide one on one technical assistance to prepare micro and small businesses in South Los Angeles to receive access to capital to grow their businesses. Congresswoman Maxine Waters facilitated a one million Dollar multi-year grant to Macedonia CDC through the HUD Office of Community Planning and Development, Congressional Grants Division.

Additional support for CDC is doing has come from The United States Treasury Department’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), The California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), and CAMEO.

Visit The Level Up Store for the latest clothing and apparel, and check out Macedonia CDC if you are in South LA and looking to make an impact with your business.

Updated: 3/20/2025