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One Foundation Invests $30 Million in Black-Owned Businesses

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. nvests-30-million-in-black-owned-businesses.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 15:28 GMT by AfroTech
      Locales: Georgia, North Carolina, Maryland, UNITED STATES

Sunday, February 15th, 2026 - One Foundation, the leading non-profit organization focused on empowering Black-owned small businesses, is poised for another year of significant growth following a record-breaking 2023. The foundation's announcement of a $30 million investment impacting over 5,000 businesses signals a continuing trend of crucial support for a historically underserved economic sector. This isn't simply a feel-good story; it's a demonstration of a strategically vital approach to closing the wealth gap and building a more robust and equitable economy.

While 2023 presented numerous economic headwinds - from lingering supply chain issues to rising inflation - One Foundation didn't just maintain its support, it doubled down. This proactive response to increased demand highlights the organization's agility and commitment, but also underscores the intensified challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs. The expansion of partnerships to reach businesses in a wider geographic range further solidified its position as a national resource.

Addressing Systemic Barriers

The success of One Foundation isn't merely about providing funds. It's rooted in a clear understanding of the unique obstacles faced by Black-owned businesses. Decades of systemic racism and discriminatory lending practices have created significant disadvantages, limiting access to capital, mentorship, and vital networking opportunities. Traditional financial institutions often require stringent collateral requirements and credit histories, effectively barring many Black entrepreneurs from securing loans - even when their business plans are sound. This creates a vicious cycle of limited growth and financial vulnerability.

One Foundation's holistic approach - combining financial investment with mentorship and strategic guidance - directly tackles these barriers. Mentorship programs, often pairing seasoned business leaders with emerging entrepreneurs, provide invaluable advice on navigating the complexities of running a business, from financial management to marketing and operations. Strategic support extends beyond basic advice, encompassing areas like business plan development, market research, and access to relevant industry resources.

The Impact of Capital Access

LaToya Jacobs, CEO of One Foundation, aptly stated that investing in Black businesses is investing in a more equitable and prosperous future for all. This sentiment resonates with growing research demonstrating that supporting minority-owned businesses stimulates economic growth for entire communities. When Black-owned businesses thrive, they create jobs, increase tax revenue, and contribute to a more vibrant local economy. The $30 million invested in 2023 isn't just a financial injection; it's a catalyst for widespread economic benefit.

Moreover, access to capital allows Black entrepreneurs to scale their businesses, innovate, and compete more effectively. Many are operating in sectors with high growth potential - technology, healthcare, and sustainable energy - and with the right support, they can become major economic drivers. One Foundation's investment goes beyond simply keeping businesses afloat; it's about empowering them to reach their full potential.

Looking Ahead: 2024-2026 and Beyond

The foundation's impact in 2023 is already serving as a blueprint for expansion. Early reports indicate that One Foundation is actively exploring new funding models, including impact investing and public-private partnerships, to further increase its reach. Discussions are underway to establish regional hubs that can provide localized support and training. These hubs will be crucial in addressing the specific needs of businesses in different geographic areas.

Furthermore, One Foundation is placing increased emphasis on digital literacy and e-commerce training. Recognizing the importance of online presence in today's market, the foundation is equipping entrepreneurs with the skills and resources they need to leverage digital tools and reach a wider customer base. They've partnered with several tech firms to provide discounted software and training programs.

The organization is also advocating for policy changes at the local and national levels. This includes lobbying for increased access to government contracts for minority-owned businesses and advocating for reforms to lending practices that perpetuate systemic inequalities.

One Foundation's success isn't isolated. It's part of a larger movement recognizing the crucial role of Black entrepreneurship in driving economic progress. However, sustained support and a commitment to dismantling systemic barriers are essential to ensure that this momentum continues. The foundation's 2023 achievements serve as a powerful reminder that investing in Black-owned businesses is not just the right thing to do - it's the smart thing to do.