Empowering Small Businesses After Wildfires with New Fund

Empowering Small Businesses After Wildfires with New Fund

In a significant move to aid local small businesses affected by recent catastrophic wildfires, Accion Opportunity Fund (AOF) has officially launched the Rebuild Southern California Small Business Relief Fund. This new initiative aims to raise $100 million through philanthropic donations and debt capital to provide timely financial support and recovery resources.

“We deeply empathize with the families and businesses facing this immense tragedy,” expressed Luz Urrutia, CEO of Accion Opportunity Fund. “Many of these small business owners play a vital role in our communities. As they face an uncertain future, we are dedicated to assisting them in their recovery and rebuilding journeys.”

Critical Support for Small Businesses

Accion Opportunity Fund has long been a pillar of assistance for small businesses, particularly in urban areas. With a history of over $174 million invested through more than 7,400 loans, AOF is known for helping those who often face significant barriers, including people of color and low-income entrepreneurs. Presently, AOF serves over 500 small business customers, many of whom offer essential services such as food products, childcare, beauty services, and automotive repairs.

Understanding the Fund's Objectives

The Rebuild Southern California Small Business Relief Fund has outlined specific areas of focus intended to address the immediate needs of businesses striving to recover:

• Loan payment relief: This will enable AOF borrowers to manage loan obligations on a flexible basis, including options like skipping a payment or deferment, thereby allowing them to allocate cash towards other vital business needs.
• Small business grants: For those businesses that have suffered complete destruction or loss of revenue, available grants will offer crucial financial support.
• New loans: AOF will be extending new loans at favorable rates to businesses that require additional funding to sustain themselves during this challenging period.
• Educational resources and technical assistance: The fund will provide business advising and resources to help small business owners navigate their recovery efforts effectively.

Encouraging Community Support

To establish this fund, AOF is starting with a commitment of at least $500,000 from its resources but emphasizes the importance of community contributions to meet its $100 million financial target. Each dollar contributed will empower AOF to provide up to $5 in loan capital for small business owners, creating a substantial impact within their communities.

“It is essential to recognize that the rebuilding of Southern California’s small business ecosystem is a collective endeavor. We cannot achieve this without the support of investors, donors, and partners,” highlighted Luz Urrutia. “By working together, we can ensure that these businesses receive the necessary resources to thrive once again.”

How to Get Involved

For those interested in making a donation or learning more about how to help, AOF encourages involvement and outreach. The community's participation is key to making a real difference in the recovery of small enterprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Rebuild Southern California Small Business Relief Fund?

The fund aims to raise $100 million to support small businesses impacted by wildfires, providing financial relief and recovery resources.

Who can benefit from the fund?

Small businesses in Southern California, especially those facing complete destruction or loss of revenue due to wildfires, can benefit from grants and loans from the fund.

How can individuals contribute to the fund?

Individuals can contribute by making donations or engaging with AOF to learn about other ways to support small businesses needing help.

What types of support does the fund offer?

The fund offers loan payment relief, grants for devastated businesses, new loans at favorable terms, and educational resources to support business owners during recovery.

Why is community support important for this initiative?

Community support is vital as it enables the fund to reach its financial goals, ensuring that adequate resources can be provided to those businesses in critical need.

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