Creating resilient transformational change juntos!

The journey towards a bright future is possible by facing challenges together, co-creating solutions. That’s why at Raza Development Fund we aim to equip Latino community-based organizations with tools to drive maximum impacts.

To this end, we are thrilled to introduce El Colibrí Learning Lab, a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower UnidosUS Affiliates and other Latino-serving non-profits with the expertise to expand micro-lending services for Latino entrepreneurs.

We’ve crafted the program con cariño (with care), starting with the name.

The hummingbird, or colibrí, is a symbol of good fortune, transformation, and interconnectedness – qualities that perfectly embody the role of Latino-serving organizations within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Just as the hummingbird supports the environment through cross-pollination and regeneration, these community nonprofits foster economic opportunities and growth.  

To deliver expert-level training, RDF has partnered with CAMEO, a leading Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and business management trainer. Together, we aim to equip affiliates with the knowledge and tools necessary to foster entrepreneurship and economic empowerment in their communities.

In February 2025, RDF will host the inaugural training at our headquarters in South Phoenix. This immersive four-day program will provide affiliate representatives with opportunities to:

• Engage with fellow leaders and share best practices

• Receive comprehensive training in Latino business trends

• Gain expertise in underwriting, credit history analysis, and loan review processes

Ultimately, organizations will gain greater understanding to start or expand their lending to entrepreneurs.  

We are excited to welcome this inaugural cohort:  

• NEW Economics for Women – Los Angeles, CA
• Enterprising Latinas – Wimauma, FL
• MicroEnterprise Resources Initiatives & Training (MERIT) – Portland, OR
• Greenline Access Capital – Philadelphia, PA
• Hispanic and Immigrant center of Alabama – Birmingham, AL
• Northeast Ohio Economic Development Center – Cleveland, OH
• Latino Memphis – Memphis, TN
• YWCA Tucson – Tucson, AZ
• Hispanic Unity of Florida – Hollywood, FL
• Mi Casa Resource Center – Denver, CO
• Comité de Bien Estar – San Luis, AZ
• Growth Capital Partners AZ, Phoenix, AZ  

By enhancing affiliates’ capacity for direct lending, El Colibrí Learning Lab will play a pivotal role in shaping a stronger, more inclusive entrepreneurial landscape for Latino communities.

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Follow RDF on social media to witness the transformative impact of El Colibrí Learning Lab as it unfolds.