Our Strategies:

  • Programs that work in underinvested areas or with underserved communities in the East Bay to create jobs and stimulate economic activity.  We prioritize programs that are creating high-quality jobs and/or supporting businesses that are responsive to the health and economic needs of residents. 

  • Microenterprise, cooperative and microloan programs that help low-income individuals start businesses, as well as improve business survival rate and profitability.

  • Organizations that advocate for system change in community economic development, with a focus on the East Bay.

  • Capacity building and technical assistance to organizations seeking to strengthen these types of programs.

Our Desired Outcomes:

  • Jobs created or retained

  • New businesses opened with annual increases in profitability

  • Improved survival rate of businesses over time

  • Increase in household income and improved asset health from self-employment