Valencia Street
A Haven for Independent Businesses

Valencia Street, nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Mission District, is filled with independent spirit. Sun-drenched cafes, quirky shops bursting with personality, and eye-catching street art line the corridor, each a testament to the neighborhood's unique character. 

From mouthwatering local eats to one-of-a-kind finds, Valencia Street offers a diverse tapestry of experiences that keeps visitors and residents coming back for more.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated group called the Valencia Corridor Merchants Association (VCMA) has been tirelessly championing the character of Valencia Street for over two decades.

From Grassroots Movement to Global Recognition

The VCMA's story starts with Deena Davenport, a local firebrand who refused to let a national chain store overshadow Valencia Street's unique charm. In the early 2000s, Deena rallied a group of like-minded individuals to fight for the soul of their beloved street and formed the Valencia Corridor Merchants Association (VCMA).

Their efforts went beyond Valencia—they became a testament to the power of community organizing. The VCMA successfully lobbied for San Francisco's formula retail legislation, a groundbreaking effort that empowered neighborhoods to resist the cookie-cutter influence of chain stores. 

This visionary legislation and Deena’s unwavering dedication have earned Valencia Street major bragging rights. Today, it is the longest stretch of independent businesses in the nation. Advocates from across the globe, from the UK to Colombia, have noticed and are replicating this approach in their communities.

Keeping Valencia Unique: A Balancing Act

But the VCMA's journey hasn't been all smooth sailing. Empty storefronts, the plague of Covid-19, and the ever-present allure of national chains have all tested the organization's mission. However, the VCMA has consistently advocated for a balanced approach, ensuring a diverse mix of businesses while protecting the unique character of the corridor. 

Here's a look at some of our key achievements:

  • Defending Independence: Countless chain stores have attempted to set up shop on Valencia Street, but the VCMA's unwavering opposition has ensured these corporations haven't diluted the local flavor and pushed out the owner-operated stores that make up much of the corridor.

  • Enhancing the Ambiance: The iconic decorative lights illuminating Valencia Street at night testify to the VCMA's dedication. This initiative transformed the nighttime streetscape, creating a more inviting atmosphere and is currently being upgraded over the summer of 2024 to better enhance the corridor.

  • Fostering Community: Past events, like Cookie Crawls, Wine Walks, and Sidewalk Sales, not only attracted visitors but also strengthened the sense of community on Valencia Street. During the summer of 2024, we are hosting a monthly Salsa in the Streets to dance the summer night away.

Looking Forward:
A Vision for a Thriving Future

The VCMA remains dedicated to empowering local businesses and ensuring the Valencia corridor thrives. Our vision includes:

  • Supporting a Diverse Business Landscape: The VCMA strives to create an environment where businesses of all types can succeed.

  • Enhancing the Customer Experience: The VCMA is committed to initiatives that improve the overall visitor experience on Valencia Street.

  • Maintaining the Corridor's Character: We will continue to advocate for policies that safeguard Valencia Street's unique, independent spirit. We also employ graffiti removal experts and help shopkeepers maintain their windows when needed.

The VCMA
A Legacy of Passion and Progress

The VCMA's story is about passion, dedication, and a deep love for the Valencia Corridor. From its humble beginnings to its current role as a community pillar, the VCMA's legacy is a testament to the power of collective action. The VCMA, composed of a board of all volunteer local business owners and operators, has preserved a cherished San Francisco destination and inspired communities worldwide to fight for the local character of their neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Deena Davenport, owner of Glama-Rama Salon, rallied the community to establish the VCMA in response to the threat of a national chain store opening on Valencia Street.

  • The formula retail legislation, championed by the VCMA, empowers San Francisco neighborhoods to resist chain store intrusion. This groundbreaking legislation has been praised and replicated by communities around the world.

  • The VCMA has faced challenges such as high vacancy rates, the rise of restaurants vying for retail space, and the allure of national chain stores.

  • The VCMA has consistently advocated for a balanced approach, ensuring a diverse mix of businesses while protecting the corridor's unique character. With the influx of grant funds, they have also shifted their focus from smaller events to larger projects.