Chan Zuckerberg Community Space Night Market Uplifts Local Entrepreneurs

On Nov. 20, the Chan Zuckerberg Community Space transformed into a lively marketplace for the second annual Holiday Night Market.

Twenty local entrepreneurs filled the room with handcrafted goods, flavorful treats, and festive cheer. For many, it was a chance not just to sell their products, but to share their stories with the community.

"I participate in a lot of markets throughout the year, and this is one of my favorites," says Eva Zermeño, owner of Rustic Postres, who returned to the market for a second year. "I feel genuinely welcomed and valued. The atmosphere is so warm and inviting - people take the time to stop, talk, and connect. It doesn't feel like just selling products; it feels like being part of a community that cares. I always leave this event feeling uplifted, not just because of the sales, but because I feel seen, supported, and part of something meaningful."

Zermeño, based in East Palo Alto, California, creates rustic-style desserts - from chocolate chip cookies made with Ghirardelli chocolate, to churro bars - often with a twist that reflects her Mexican heritage. She's a client of Beyond the Kitchen, a program by the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center, which hosted the Night Market in the Community Space. The program supports early-stage food businesses with business training and access to commercial kitchen space.

Renaissance helps small businesses thrive through training, one-on-one consulting, access to capital, and a strong support network. By attending the event, guests had a direct hand in uplifting small business owners during one of the busiest shopping seasons of the year.

"Small businesses are the heart and soul of every community," says Jonathan Makonnen, owner of Unfazed Clothing, a Renaissance client whose brand features motivational streetwear. Makonnen returned to the Night Market this year, selling t-shirts, hats, hoodies and more. "There are more small businesses than big ones, and especially now, it's so important to support them. When given the opportunity, you can really see what they can accomplish."

Evening highlights included:

• A rich array of local goods: handmade jewelry and ornaments, plushies, candles, apparel, snacks, and more - all thoughtfully crafted and curated.
• A lively food and beverage station: a space for connection and conversation.
• Raffles and giveaways: fun elements that also boosted support for participating makers.
• A welcoming atmosphere: children playing, friends catching up, and entrepreneurs exchanging ideas and encouragement.

"The Night Market is one of my favorite events we host in the Community Space," says Cristina Huezo, vice president of family giving. "It's a powerful reminder of why this space exists - to bring people together, highlight local talent, and celebrate the creativity and diversity that make our community so special."

As the holiday season continues, we're deeply grateful to the entrepreneurs who shared their passion and craft, to the guests who showed up and engaged, and to our partners at the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center for helping make this event a celebration of local talent and community spirit.

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About the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative

The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative was founded in 2015 to help solve some of society's toughest challenges - from eradicating disease and improving education, to addressing the needs of our local communities. For more information, please visit chanzuckerberg.com.

Press Contact

Chan Zuckerberg Initiative
Jane Packer
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