Our Current Campaigns

Lift the Caps!

Our latest campaign to increase the number of permits and licenses, increase space for vending, and bring justice to NYC vendors!

Despite attempts at making an honest living, vendors are subject to a litany of unjust regulations which make their work an incredible challenge. Since the early 1980s, an arbitrary cap has been placed on the number of available food permits and general vending licenses. This cap effectively makes street vending illegal for thousands of vendors and has led to the creation of a black market where permits (originally purchased from the City for $200) are now sold upwards of $20,000.

Lifting the caps on permits and licenses would not only decriminalize vending for the thousands of hard-working New Yorkers, but also generate a significant increase to New York City’s revenue. As vendors, workers, politicians, business owners, and community-based organizations, we support a bill that would lift the caps and allow members of our communities to work legally and justly. Click here for more info.

The Pushcart Fund

A special collaboration between the Street Vendor Project, a vendor organization, and the Business Center for New Americans, an established small business loan and training provider. It gives loans to New York City street vendors who need capital to sustain or grow their small businesses. Many vendors need loans to buy new pushcarts or stock up on merchandise. Others need loans to pay their fines and renew their licenses so they can stay in business. Click here for more info.