The 2025 SDTA Tourism Accelerator Cohort group photo

Tourism Accelerator Cohort

2025

Baraka and Bilal

Baraka and Bilal provide hand-crafted, flavorful dishes that showcase East African traditions and are available for events seeking unique, memorable cuisine. Founded in 2013, by UWEAST (United Women of East Africa Support Team), this initiative empowers refugee women by teaching them entrepreneurial skills that honor their cultural heritage.

Owner: Sahra Abdi | Black, woman-owned business
Info: 6553 University Ave. San Diego, CA 92115 | [email protected] | (619) 501-7804

Bloom & Rooted

Bloom & Rooted is San Diego’s premier partner for luxury plant and floral design. We specialize in curating bespoke plant rentals, native floral displays, and event decor that embodies the timeless beauty of Southern California’s landscape. We also offer eco-conscious floral installations that reflect San Diego’s commitment to sustainability and the environment.

Owner: Felicia Booker | Black, woman-owned business

Info: 1835 Imperial Ave San Diego, CA 92123 | [email protected]| (858) 717-4426

CatchHer IceCream

CatchHer IceCream is an homemade, upscale, adults-only, liquor-infused ice cream brand.

Owner: Sheena Lyte | Black, woman-owned business

Info: 9932 Mesa Rim Road, Ste A San Diego, CA 92121 | [email protected] | (213) 802-5155

Flour Atelier

Flour Atelier is a boutique modern bakery specializing in Asian inspired flavors from the Philippines and Japan.

Owner: Chrisell Nguyen | Asian, woman-owned business

Info: 4240 Kearny Mesa Rd 116, San Diego, California 92111 | [email protected] | (619) 321-9927

Movement Matters Collective

Movement Matters Collective is a community-focused health and wellness organization offering inclusive, accessible movement experiences. We provide pilates, dance, and yoga classes to promote physical and mental well-being in our boutique wellness space, as well as tailored wellness services for organizations, events, and conventions.

Owner: Latoya Mckelvin-Westpoint | Black, woman-owned business

Info: 3014 C St. Unit E, San Diego, California 92102 | [email protected] | (315) 516-6274

Mujeres Brew House

Mujeres Brew House is San Diego's first and only all-female and Latina-owned and operated craft brewery in San Diego.

Owner: Carmen A. Velasco Favela | Latina, woman-owned business

Info: 1983 Julian Ave San Diego, CA 92113 | [email protected] | (619) 213-4340

Purpose First

Purpose First is a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that hosts community cleanup events in San Diego. We provide education, sponsor eco-friendly events, and have rescued over 7,000 lbs of trash from entering the ocean.

Owner: Gregor Coffaro | Veteran-owned business

Info: 960 Sapphire St. San Diego, CA 92109 | [email protected] | (619) 490-3078

Sunny Bites Food Tours

Sunny Bites Food Tours offers immersive walking food tours that showcase the culinary gems and local culture of San Diego’s off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, starting with North Park. By partnering with local businesses, we provide guests with a unique and flavorful experience that supports the community while highlighting the rich history and vibrant food scene of each area.

Owner: Rachel Murray | Woman-owned business

Info: [email protected] | (619) 356-1132

Surje Coffee Co.

Surje Coffee is a dairy-free, gluten-free specialty coffee shop, offering culturally inspired coffee mocktails and community-centered events. We also provide catering through our mobile coffee cart, delivering our unique coffee experiences to off-site events, expanding our reach and customer base.

Owner: Valerie Urrutia | Latina, woman-owned business

Info: [email protected] | (626) 419-1732

The Old Town Soap Company

The Old Town Soap Company is a Black, Woman, and Veteran-Owned personal care and wellness brand based in UTC. We specialize in zero-waste, plant-based products like soaps, body butters, serums, and beard oils, alongside unique soap-making classes. We provide endless possibilities for product customization for retail and wholesale customers.

Owner: Ernestine Brown | Veteran, Black, woman-owned business