Success Story: Lion Dance Me

Lion Dance Me Secures Space to Preserve Tradition and Build Community

Location: Northern California | San Francisco County | San Francisco

Business Type: Cultural Arts and Performance

Small Business Center: San José MBDA Business Center/ASIAN, Inc.

Assistance Received:  Business Planning, Financing/Capital Access, and Other Financial Management

California State Assembly District: 17 

California State Senate District: 11 

Visit Lion Dance Me online

Founded in 2013 by Norman Lau, Lion Dance Me was built on a vision of modernizing lion dance while preserving its rich traditions. What began as a small group of students quickly grew into programs across seven SFUSD high schools. Without a dedicated practice space, they transformed Chinatown’s Grant Avenue into their training ground, fostering a passionate community. By 2019, Lion Dance Me was performing more than 400 shows annually, had secured their first international performance, and competed in their first world championship. 

Norman’s passion lies in modernizing lion dance while honoring its deep cultural roots, using it as a way to bring people together. Beyond performance, he envisioned creating a safe and welcoming space where youth and community members could learn, grow, and find belonging. Through lion dance, he not only preserves tradition but also builds bridges across generations, offering participants a place to develop discipline, teamwork, and pride in their heritage. 

As the business continued to grow, Norman faced a critical challenge: he had outgrown his existing warehouse space but needed to secure financing to purchase a larger facility that could support his expanding operations. Navigating the complex process of commercial loans and understanding SBA requirements proved daunting, and Norman needed expert guidance to strengthen his bankability and identify the right lending partners. 

Norman connected with the San José MBDA Business Center, which helped guide him through the complex process of securing a loan. The Center provided comprehensive support with financial projections, helped identify the right lender, and worked to strengthen his bankability. Throughout the process, the Center offered clear explanations at every step, set realistic expectations, and provided hands-on support that built trust and confidence. 

“I truly want to thank the team at the San José Business Center for their efforts, support, and diligence during what was a stressful time of ups and downs,” shared Norman Lau, Founder. “The experience reminded me that hard times build character, and along the way I learned a great deal about the SBA, commercial loans, and the value of networking.” 

The transparency and guidance throughout the entire process proved invaluable. By offering clear explanations at every step and providing hands-on support, the Center helped Norman not only understand the requirements to secure financing but also equipped him with knowledge and tools he can continue to apply as his business grows. 

With the Center’s support, Norman successfully secured a loan to purchase the warehouse he had outgrown, allowing him to expand his operations. With the additional space, Lion Dance Me is now positioned to grow the business, increase capacity for performances and training, and create new opportunities for community engagement and potential job creation. 

Today, what started as Norman’s vision has become a vibrant community hub that inspires and empowers others through culture, connection, and creativity. Lion Dance Me continues to preserve tradition while building bridges across generations, providing a space where participants develop discipline, teamwork, and pride in their heritage. 

Visit Lion Dance Me to learn more about their performances, training programs, and how they’re preserving and modernizing lion dance traditions in the Bay Area. 

If you’re interested in expanding your cultural or arts-based business, connect with the San José MBDA Business Center/ASIAN, Inc. to learn about their business planning and capital access services. 

10/31//2025