Java & Jobs

As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), the Initiative Foundation has been given a great opportunity to invest in locally-owned companies - delivering responsible, affordable lending to help low-income, low-wealth, and other disadvantaged people and communities.  


Since being certified as a CDFI, we have been awarded nearly $2 million from the CDFI Fund to provide loans and assistance to technology-based and green business ventures in central Minnesota.  The Foundation is also proud to be a member of the Opportunity Finance Network, a national network of CDFIs.  


And now we have another great opportunity...


Starbucks and the Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) teamed up to launch the Create Jobs for USA Fund on Nov. 1, 2011. Seeded with a $5 million donation from The Starbucks Foundation, Create Jobs for USA allows concerned citizens to help create and sustain jobs in America. OFN, a nationwide network of 180 CDFIs, oversees the fund which provides financing to community businesses in underserved markets. One hundred percent of contributions are pooled and awarded as loans for community businesses including small businesses, microenterprises, nonprofit organizations, commercial real estate, and affordable housing groups who are committed to creating and sustaining jobs all across the country. Donations are accepted online at www.CreateJobsforUSA.org and at nearly 7,000 U.S. company-operated Starbucks stores. Donors who contribute $5 or more receive a red, white, and blue wristband with the message “Indivisible,” designed to serve as a symbol of Americans uniting to help create jobs.


So next time you're in a Starbucks, we hope you'll consider a donation.  Not only will you be getting a delicious beverage but you'll be helping to create jobs!


To learn more about Create Jobs for USA, download the fact sheet or visit www.CreateJobsforUSA.org.