Dine-LI's 4th Small Business Market will be held on February 11, 2023, at the Samanea Mall in Westbury from 10 am to 4 pm. The event will feature over 100 vendors, the majority of which will be food vendors and unique craft/small enterprises.
Dine-LI is a Facebook group with almost 40,000 members that brings together people who share a passion for food, dining, restaurants, community, and charity. They have supported countless restaurants and small businesses through difficult times and hope to help more in the future. This year’s annual Small Business Market will provide profit proceeds to Beyond The Badge NY and the Fires and Drums Foundation.
Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door; children between the ages of 3-12 are $5–“which are non refundable since all proceeds will be donated toward the foundations.”
Image courtesy of Dine-LI on Facebook
By purchasing a ticket and attending the event, you are supporting local heroes who have dedicated their lives to helping us and keeping our communities safe. This family-friendly event is a terrific way to discover new favorite Long Island local businesses while also supporting the community. Dine-LI has featured countless Long Island businesses, such as Thai House, Vito’s Restaurant and Pizzeria, Pita Station, Sea Bar, and many more.
Small businesses can also apply to be showcased at the event. Once your small business is chosen, you will be informed, and a payment will be due to ensure your position, which is a $100 vendor fee that is non refundable.
Your small business will have a 10-foot space to display your business. No tables and chairs are permitted on the site, and setup materials will be provided. You will be contacted within 72 hours of your application submission if your small business has been selected for Dine-LI’s small business market, and your business may begin preparations. To sign up for a chance to have your small business represented in the event and acquire more information, check out the Link Tree.
The Fires & Drums Foundation was established in memory of William Tolley, who died fighting a fire in Brooklyn. William was survived by his wife and their 9-year-old daughter. The foundation assists families of fallen First Responders and Military members who have suffered a tragedy. It also provides these families with direct cash assistance to help cover bills and provide urgent relief to lessen any problems caused by their loss.
Beyond the Badge NY is a nonprofit that promotes suicide and mental health awareness in law enforcement. By removing the stigma associated with officers seeking mental health treatment, the association aims to reduce the rising rates of suicides. The association aids not only officers in need but also the children and families of officers who have lost their lives to suicide. Through the years, Beyond the Badge NY has provided a variety of workshops, seminars, scholarships, and events and initiatives. The entire event proceeds will be donated to these two important charities.
When filling out an application, food vendors must include essential information such as business name, vendor contact name, phone number, and email. Vendors must also be able to provide appropriate health department licensing and insurance to take part in the event. If an outlet is necessary for your vending space, you must make this known on your application, for example, in cases where you will be using Air fryers and Sternos.
Applicants must also include what they will be selling by listing all offering products. Any type of cooking or frying is permitted to be done outdoors. Finally, the application asks if anyone in your direct family is a current or retired police officer, firefighter, or EMS worker.