Connect with our team of experts on financing, training, and advisory services.
Serving entrepreneurs in the Greater Washington Area since 1987.
What We Do
The Washington Area Community Investment Fund's (Wacif) mission is to promote equity and economic opportunity in underserved neighborhoods in the Washington, D.C. region. Our mission is driven by three strategic pillars: inclusive entrepreneurship, community wealth building, and equitable economic development, and is fulfilled by providing access to capital products and services, and capacity-building technical assistance to low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs.
Grants for Black-Owned Retail Businesses in Washington D.C.'s Wards 7 and 8
Wacif and Walmart have partnered to support Black retail entrepreneurs in Washington D.C.'s Wards 7 and 8. Eligible businesses can receive up to $10K in funds.
Upcoming Events
The Digital Refresh: Masterclasses to Elevate Your Digital Presence
May 23 @ 9:00 AM - May 24 @ 4:00 PM EDTJoin us for a 2-day workshop series dedicated to helping you create an engaging digital presence.
Advancing Black Retail Grant Information Session
May 26 @ 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EDTAre you a Black-owned small business located in D.C. Wards 7 and 8? Wacif & Walmart have partnered on a grant opportunity you may qualify for!
Powered by Wacif
Our specialized programs meet entrepreneurs where they are.
Client Stories
"COVID-19 impacted our business tremendously as we had to close stores for almost 6 months. Wacif's support helped us pivot and move our business from the brick and mortar into the ecommerce space."
Anika Hobbs, Nubian Hueman
"I love when non-profit organizations support small and local businesses in the D.C. area. Wacif you have proven yourself over and over again."
Angelique Marshall, Ms. P's Child and Family Services
"Wacif's support made the difference between winning and losing a major contract associated with the construction of the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge. I highly recommend Wacif to any D.C. area business that is serious about growth."
Bill Redick, Plenary Enterprises
"On behalf of the Easterseals family, and the District's childcare community, we would like to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for the financial support we received. Everyone was friendly, patient, and helpful. You should be proud."
Larry D. Johnson, Easterseals Child Care and Early Education Center
Our Impact
For more than 30 years, Wacif has been creating equity and opportunity in underserved communities by getting financial capital and business advice to low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs.
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Full & Part-time JobsCreated and retained thousands of jobs for local communities
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Flexible FinancingProvided millions of dollars in flexible financing for local small businesses and development of affordable housing
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Hours of CounselingSupported local entrepreneurs with thousands of hours of business counseling and technical assistance
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Woman or Minority-OwnedSupport of disadvantaged businesses in Wacif’s portfolio which are Woman or Minority-Owned