The Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia Boosts the Latin American Association’s Micro Lending Program by $100,000 Through New Partnership

The Latin American Association (LAA) announces a significant stride in its mission to support Latina entrepreneurs in Gwinnett County through a strategic partnership with the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia.

Based in Gwinnett County, the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia is a nonprofit organization focused on connecting people who care with causes that matter – such as the LAA’s micro lending program.

The Community Foundation, through its Impact Investment Fund, is providing an  investment of $100,000 to the LAA which will use the investment to expand its micro lending program in Gwinnett County. This influx of funds will enable the LAA to provide specifically tailored loans of up to $10,000 to Latina women entrepreneurs participating in the LAA’s Latina empowerment program Avanzando Juntas. This strategic partnership and concerted efforts represent another significant stepping stone for the LAA as it strives to become a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), marking a pivotal moment in its journey towards fostering economic empowerment and financial inclusion within underserved communities. 

Micro loans of this nature have proven to be immensely impactful for small businesses in their beginning stages, providing vital financial support for entrepreneurs who are just starting out. 

“Everything we do centers around one purpose – improving our world through the power of philanthropy. By providing increased capital to the LAA, we aspire to empower Latina entrepreneurs and instigate meaningful change in our community,” said DePriest Waddy, CEO of the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia. 

For over a decade, the LAA has been a pioneer in providing micro loans to budding business owners, boasting an impressive track record. This achievement underscores the LAA’s commitment to fostering economic empowerment within the community and its strong relationship with borrowers.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for underserved communities. By expanding our micro lending program, we aim to continue supporting the dreams and aspirations of aspiring entrepreneurs while contributing to the economic vitality of the region,” said Santiago Marquez, CEO of the Latin American Association. 

This partnership showcases the impact of collaboration in driving positive change and promoting inclusive economic development. Together, both nonprofits aim to significantly impact the lives of entrepreneurs in Gwinnett County and beyond.

About the Latin American Association:

The Latin American Association works to lower the barriers to economic mobility and prosperity that Latino immigrants face as they adapt and integrate to life in the United States. From service centers in Atlanta, Gwinnett County and northwest Georgia, the LAA brings to life the American dream by providing the resources, support and sense of community that Georgia’s Latino families need to thrive.

From stabilizing families in times of crisis to adjusting immigration status, from offering adult English classes to placing job seekers with employers, and from guiding youth on a path to success to elevating women entrepreneurs, the LAA’s trusted bilingual staff works diligently to ensure Latino immigrants have a shot at social and economic equity.

No other organization in Georgia serving Latinos has the geographic reach, breadth of services, expertise and longevity that the LAA has. Founded in 1972, the LAA provides over 40,000 services a year. 

For more information about the Latin American Association and its micro lending program, please visit thelaa.org