Exciting news! Wacif has launched a new loan portal for a smoother, faster application experience. Learn more here.
The Washington Area Community Investment Fund (Wacif) is partnering with The Coalition to propel small businesses into a greener future.
Secure loans up to $250,000 and grants to finance sustainability projects
Navigate green certifications and connect with institutions to grow readiness and capacity
Identify strategies to obtain green entrepreneurship opportunities through coaching, training, and peer mentoring
At Wacif, we’re dedicated to supporting small businesses like yours with seizing opportunities for growth and success in the green economy.
The Sustainable DC Project supports capacity building for green entrepreneurs or those seeking to implement sustainable practices.
Sustainability (as defined by Wacif) is…
Environmental sustainability is the practice of responsibly managing and conserving natural resources to ensure their availability for future generations. It focuses on interacting with the planet in a way that does not deplete or unnecessarily waste resources, aiming to improve the quality of human life without putting undue strain on supporting ecosystems. Examples include the conservation of resources, the reduction of pollution and waste, the promotion of renewable energy, and the mitigation of climate change impacts.
Sustainable entrepreneurship refers to businesses implementing practices, products, or materials that benefit the environment, or supporting businesses in their transition or growth in sustainable industries. This includes promoting the green economy and transition to clean energy and greenhouse gas emission reduction.
*lending eligibility restricted to businesses with $50,000 or more in revenue and minimum of one year in business. More information can be found on our Lending Page when you visit the lending page below.
In partnership with CNHED, we are designing a holistic approach to ensure underinvested businesses can access the green economy through:
Term loans are available now.
In 2025, technical assistance and grants will be available to entrepreneurs interested in entering and growing in the sustainable economy ecosystem.
Individuals and families are enhancing their income levels, skills, and career prospects, through Sustainable DC Project.
Our team tracks outcomes to ensure impact and scalability.
Small businesses supported through capital access, technical assistance, cohort programs, and trainings.
Jobs created in underserved communities by investing in entrepreneurs.
Drive Economic Equity and Sustainability
Build and Grow Supplier Diversity
Scale Impact
Grant funding allocated to help small businesses implement sustainable efforts.
Loan capital deployed to finance sustainability projects.
Funding Restriction:
The Green Growth Fund is an innovative financing initiative designed to promote sustainable economic development and environmental stewardship. This fund offers tailored financial solutions to small businesses that contribute to reducing energy consumption, resource use, and greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, the Green Growth Fund offers a lower barrier to entry lending product up to $250,000 to ensure accessibility for underinvested small businesses.
The Sustainable Boost Grant is a unique feature of this fund, providing an additional layer of financial security and flexibility to borrowers. This grant component demonstrates the fund’s commitment to supporting sustainable practices while addressing the practical financial challenges that businesses may face. The grant will be made available upon full repayment of the loan.
