Scale matters. Local commitment is paramount. Deep collaborations drive impact.

That’s my short-hand takeaway from this month’s spotlightscadre of LISC small business stories, all offering a nod to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and the tens of thousands of entrepreneurs that contribute to the vibrant diversity of the American landscape.

Each story, on its own, speaks to a strong sense of culture and community. But, in looking at them together, it’s easy to see how they reflect LISC’s overarching work to bridge gaps in health, wealth and opportunity and to fuel sustainable growth.

In Philadelphia, for instance, our decades of work with HACE—the Hispanic Association of Contractors and Enterprises—expanded yet again with a recent LISC lineletter of credit, which helped the organization bridge revenue from services contracts that had been slowed during the pandemic. It meant HACE could continue to provide vital local housing services to struggling families at the height of COVID-19 and supportprotect its ability to support a wide range of other programs and services.

I think it’s fair to say that HACE has been an essential resource in Eastern North Philadelphia’s Hispanic community, stanching disinvestment and driving new development, without displacing long-time residents and businesses. LISC is proud to have such a long and committed and diverse partnership with its team.

Heading to Chicago, we are also featuring two businesses this month that are just blocks apart. They not only honor the rich heritage of the immigrant experience in the city, but also illustrate the value of comprehensive investment strategies and the critical role of local nonprofits in seeding and supporting entrepreneurs. When community plans connect good housing, businesses, jobs, health, schools and safety, the ripple effect is substantial. Block by block, local organizations and entrepreneurs can have a remarkable impact on the outlook for their communities.

Read the full article about Latinx businesses by Connie Max at LISC.