CREATEBodega Link: AI-Powered Platform to Transform Healthy Food Access in Underserved LA
Bodega Link by VNDRMATCH is an AI-powered technology platform that transforms small corner stores into health equity hubs by managing inventory and matching bodegas with local and mid-size vendors based on preferences, cultural needs, and availability. Launching in South and East LA, our pilot connects stores to farmers, food access nonprofits, and incentive programs to build a scalable, hyperlocal food ecosystem. Starting with fresh produce, we will expand to distribute niche healthy products made by local entrepreneurs.
What is the primary issue area that your application will impact?
Access to tech and creative industry employment
In which areas of Los Angeles will you be directly working?
Central LA East LA South LA County of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a countywide benefit)
In what stage of innovation is this project, program, or initiative?
Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)
What is your understanding of the issue that you are seeking to address?
South, Central and East LA remain underserved by traditional food systems, where small corner stores struggle to stock affordable, fresh produce due to limited vendor access, poor logistics, and lack of inventory tools. These challenges compound existing health disparities in low-income communities, particularly among Black, Latinx, and immigrant populations. Simultaneously, local farmers, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits lack infrastructure to scale their solutions into neighborhood retail.
Describe the project, program, or initiative this grant will support to address the issue.
Bodega Link is a technology platform that uses AI to automate inventory tracking and match corner stores with fresh food vendors—local farmers, farmers markets, and mid-sized distributors—based on each store’s preferences, demand trends, and regional supply. Through our pilot, we will onboard 10–15 stores in South and East LA, providing training, tech tools, and access to vendors aligned with public health goals.
The platform integrates with community-based food incentive programs and food-as-medicine initiatives by nonprofits, enabling seamless participation by small stores. Starting with produce, Bodega Link will eventually support distribution of locally made health products such as culturally relevant snacks, teas, and supplements from entrepreneurs in the community. Our long-term goal is to build a decentralized, tech-powered food ecosystem that boosts health, income, and sustainability from the ground up.
Describe how Los Angeles County will be different if your work is successful.
If successful, South and East LA will experience improved access to nutritious foods, stronger local supply chains, and new pathways for community health and entrepreneurship. Bodega Link will become a foundational tech layer that connects vendors, corner stores, and nonprofit programs into a coordinated, AI-enhanced ecosystem. Residents will have healthier choices, corner stores will operate more efficiently, and local farmers and makers will find new revenue streams.
Approximately how many people will be impacted by this project, program, or initiative?
Direct Impact: 3,000
Indirect Impact: 15,000