Washington Area Community Investment Fund, Inc. (Wacif)

We’re excited to announce that tickets for the 2025 State of the Ecosystem & Office of Women's Initiatives (OWI) Launch are now available! Navigating the small business landscape can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Join us for an empowering event featuring expert panels, valuable resources, and the official launch of Wacif’s Office of Women’s Initiatives. Whether you’re scaling your business, exploring capital opportunities, refining your strategy, or pursuing certification, this is the space to get answers and make meaningful connections. Enjoy a complimentary brunch, meet fellow entrepreneurs, and gain insights to propel your business forward. Spots are limited- grab your tickets today using this link: https://hubs.la/Q037ndLd0

Get to know our CEO Shannan Herbert! Shannan recently sat down with our friends at the Washington Business Journal to talk about her role, upcoming projects and plans for Wacif in 2025. Watch the full interview here: https://hubs.la/Q036Px1x0 #Leadership #CEO #Wacif #SmallBusinessSupport #Entrepreneurship #CommunityImpact #EconomicEquity #BusinessGrowth #DCBusiness #WashingtonBusiness #WomenInLeadership #WatchNow

Wacif is thrilled to announce the selection of Corenic Construction as the general contractor and Drummond Projects as the architect for the Anacostia Arts Center redevelopment. Both firms bring extensive experience in Wards 7 and 8 and a shared commitment to sustainable, inclusive entrepreneurship. This project will expand The HIVE coworking space, enhance small business support services, and increase cultural programming to better serve local artists and entrepreneurs. The community is invited to Wacif’s “Dreaming and Building Together” event on March 6 to learn more and provide feedback. Stay tuned for more updated and read more about the redevelopment in the Washington Business Journal here: https://hubs.la/Q036Ql-N0 #AnacostiaArtsCenter #Wacif #DCArts #EconomicEquity #SmallBusinessSupport

The State of the Ecosystem is back! Where in the DMV can you find the guidance and resources to propel your small business forward? As an entrepreneur, navigating the ever-changing small business landscape can feel overwhelming—especially with recent shifts in funding priorities and the changing economic atmosphere. The current climate is reshaping the small business ecosystem, leaving many wondering where to turn for support. We understand how isolating this journey can be, but the resources and community you need are within reach. Join us for an inspiring and empowering event to launch Wacif's Office of Women's Initiatives and featuring 2 expert panels.?Whether you’re scaling your business, exploring capital opportunities, refining your strategy, or pursuing certification, this is the space to get answers and make meaningful connections. Enjoy a complimentary brunch, meet fellow entrepreneurs, and build the community that will help drive your success. Let’s show up boldly—together! Ticket sales begin on Wednesday, February 19th - save the date here: https://hubs.la/Q036x2Z40

Wacif’s Sustainable Entrepreneurship Report is here! We surveyed over 200 entrepreneurs in the DC metro area to uncover the opportunities and challenges of building a sustainable business ecosystem. The report highlights financing solutions, technical assistance needs, and strategies to help entrepreneurs integrate sustainability into their business models. This research is a critical step in shaping Wacif’s approach to supporting small businesses driving environmental and economic impact. Read the full report: https://hubs.la/Q035qZx10 #Sustainability #Entrepreneurship #GreenBusiness #EconomicEquity #WacifImpact

We are excited to receive a $350,000 grant from Principal Financial Group in support of our mission to drive economic opportunity through entrepreneurship. This generous funding will provide crucial general operating support, enabling us to better serve entrepreneurs and small businesses in the Washington D.C. area. Thank you for your support - your commitment to building a strong small business ecosystem fuels our work! To learn more about current and upcoming donor and partnership opportunities, please visit: https://hubs.la/Q034NhyY0

The Application for our 2025 Ascend.Her Beauty Cohort is NOW LIVE! Apply now: https://lnkd.in/enBmkKXk The Ascend.Her Beauty Cohort, developed in partnership with Rahama Wright of Yeleen Beauty Makerspace, is tailored for entrepreneurs in the hair care, skin care, and body care industries. This program provides tools and resources to help participants: - Build a strong business foundation. - Enhance their product development and branding strategies. - Develop effective sales and marketing approaches. - Navigate the complexities of the beauty retail space. To learn more, attend our virtual information session on February 6 from 12 - 1 PM: https://hubs.la/Q034dh9b0

Introducing Wacif’s Sustainable Entrepreneurship Advisory Council We’re proud to launch our first advisory council, bringing together experts in sustainability, finance, and economic development including Daniel Barker of Halcyon, Victor Burrola of Wells Fargo, Jean Nelson-Houpert of Volt Energy Utility, Jessica Long’s of Nareit, Amir Kirkwood of Justice Climate Fund to guide our efforts in supporting small businesses as they adopt green practices and contribute to the green economy. The council reflects Wacif’s commitment to promoting and supporting entrepreneurial efforts that positively impact our planet and communities. Learn more about this exciting step forward: https://hubs.la/Q033PpnX0 #Sustainability #Entrepreneurship #GreenEconomy #WacifImpact #SmallBusinessSupport #EconomicDevelopment

As we prepare to honor #MLKDay this Monday, we reflect on Dr. King's dream of racial equity and justice that remains our guiding light. We're committed to carrying forward his vital work of creating opportunity and equity within our community. Start the celebration early with these free DC weekend events that celebrate his enduring legacy!

As we close out an incredible year, I’m filled with gratitude for the amazing team I have the honor of leading. This year has been a testament to the power of teamwork, passion, and purpose. Together, we’ve achieved so much, empowering entrepreneurs and supporting our clients in meaningful ways. At the heart of what we do is a commitment to care—not just for the success of our clients but for their well-being and journey as they pursue their dreams. That same care is reflected in the dedication of my team, whose passion inspires me daily. As we reflect on this year and look forward to the next, I am reminded of the impact we can make when we lead with purpose and compassion. As I always say "Teamwork makes the dream work". Wishing you all a joyous holiday season and a bright, prosperous new year! ?? #Teamwork #Entrepreneurship #PassionInAction #HappyHolidays Washington Area Community Investment Fund, Inc. (Wacif) Capitol Region Women's Business Center Enterprising Women of Color DMV Business Center