Exciting news! Wacif has launched a new loan portal for a smoother, faster application experience. Learn more here.

Sustainable DC Project

The Washington Area Community Investment Fund (Wacif) is partnering with The Coalition to propel small businesses into a greener future.

Technical Assistance & Events

Take advantage of Wacif’s upcoming support to access expert guidance, group technical assistance, certification support, and resources designed to help you implement sustainable practices and thrive in the green economy.

Green Growth Fund

The Green Growth Fund offers up to $250,000 in flexible financing for DC entrepreneurs advancing clean energy, eco-friendly practices, or green economy projects. Plus, unlock an added grant upon full loan repayment.

Sustainable Entrepreneurship Research Report

Wacif’s Sustainable Entrepreneurship Report shares insights from 200+ local entrepreneurs on the future of sustainability, funding needs, and community-driven solutions. Explore the findings and what’s next

CAPITAL ACCESS

Secure loans up to $250,000 and grants to finance sustainability projects

GREEN CERTIFICATION AND PROCUREMENT

Navigate green certifications and connect with institutions to grow readiness and capacity

ADVISORY SERVICES AND COHORT LEARNING

Identify strategies to obtain green entrepreneurship opportunities through coaching, training, and peer mentoring

Overview

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.

DC resident or small business (focus on Ward 5, 7, 8)

Entrepreneurs seeking to implement sustainable practices, materials, and/or energy efficiency installations

Entrepreneurs executing projects in sustainable or green economy industries (EV charging, retrofitting, waste management)

*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.

Anticipated Impact (over 3 years)

>1,000

Small businesses supported through capital access, technical assistance, cohort programs, and trainings.

>200

Jobs created in underserved communities by investing in entrepreneurs.

Anticipated Impact (over 3 years)

>1,000

Small businesses supported through capital access, technical assistance, cohort programs, and trainings.

>200

Jobs created in underserved communities by investing in entrepreneurs.

Planning

In partnership with CNHED, we are designing a holistic approach to ensure underinvested businesses can access the green economy through:

  • Capital Access
  • Technical Assistance
  • Certifications
  • Opportunity Identification
  • Advocacy

Implementation

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.

Monitoring

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.

Sustainability Team

megan

Megan Carras

Chief Development and Communications Officer, Head of Sustainability

Geneva Greene Headshot

Geneva Greene

Sustainable Entrepreneurship Strategic Consultant

Sustainable DC Advisory Council

Dan Barker Headshot

Daniel Barker

Halcyon

VictorBurrola headshot (1)

Victor Burrola

Wells Fargo

Jean Houpert Headshot (1)

Jean Nelson-Houpert

Volt Energy Utility

Long_2025 (1)

Jessica Long

Nareit

Amir Kirkwood Headshot

Amir Kirkwood

Justice Climate Fund

Resources

Wacif Secures $3.6 Million Sustainable DC Grant to Boost Green Economy for Communities of Color

CNHED and Wacif Awarded $3.6M to Open The Green Economy For Communities Of Color

Sustainable DC Project

Greater Washington Community Foundation Celebrates $26 Million Investment in Innovative DC Health Equity Partnerships

Sustainable Entrepreneurship Report