Every entrepreneur WACIF supports is writing a story of resilience and innovation. For HOMME DC Gallery, that story began with a simple but powerful belief: local creatives deserve space to be seen, supported, and celebrated. 

Founded in 2014 at the Anacostia Arts Center, HOMME has grown into a platform for independent and aspiring artists across the DMV. What started as a space for local creatives has expanded over the years, with locations in Shaw and Northwest DC and a dedicated Union Station location focused on local fashion designers. 

At the heart of HOMME’s journey is a commitment to creating opportunities for artists to showcase their work and build their careers. But turning that vision into a sustainable business required more than creativity, it required access to capital. 

How Funding Through WACIF Capital Supported Small Business Growth

Early on, WACIF provided HOMME with the capital needed to purchase equipment and products and navigate the early stages of business ownership. Securing a business loan without established credit was a critical milestone, helping HOMME generate revenue and manage its lease as the business grew. 

For HOMME, the lesson is one that applies to every entrepreneur: “The first person you should believe in is yourself.” 

Today, HOMME continues to create space for DMV artists, designers, and creatives to bring their ideas to life. 

WACIF’s Commitment To Providing Small Business Support and Resources

WACIF’s ability to support creative businesses like HOMME is made possible in part through funding from the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH). Public investment in the arts helps create opportunities for organizations like WACIF to provide local creative entrepreneurs with the capital, resources, and support they need to build sustainable businesses.

Because when vision is backed by the right support, it becomes impact.

Have a vision for your business? Speak with a WACIF advisor to learn how we can help turn it into impact.