In 2019, Sol Collective, a nonprofit organization, acted as the fiscal sponsor for Unseen Heroes to have the right tools to apply for the Silicon Valley Community Foundation’s capacity-building grant designed for Black-led organizations called the California Black Freedom Fund. Unseen Heroes was subsequently selected to receive the $150,000 grant in two installments of $75,000 per year.
With the initial $75,000 of funding in year one, Sol Collective helped Unseen Heroes set up the necessary infrastructure to create CLTRE as a nonprofit community development corporation. CLTRE was then able to apply for grant funding and technical assistance programs, and was selected for highly competitive statewide capacity-building programs like Community Vision’s CalCORE program and Sacramento Region Community Foundation’s Lab Capacity Building Program.
One year later, CLTRE was set up with the proper infrastructure to receive the second installment of $75,000, and began utilizing the knowledge from the programs of the past year to build the capacity of the organization.
Today, the impact of this investment is clear. The City of Sacramento has announced a $500,000 contract with CLTRE to implement a pilot program for BIPOC entrepreneurs to receive up to $15,000 towards the purchase of their home as part of the anti-displacement work of the organization. This program will not only help BIPOC entrepreneurs become homeowners but also contribute to the creation of wealth within their communities and reduce the displacement of marginalized communities.
This success is a result of CLTRE’s proven track record of success and impact. By leveraging the initial investment of $150,000, CLTRE has been able to secure a $500,000 contract with the City of Sacramento, demonstrating the organization’s ability to achieve concrete outcomes and deliver results.
CLTRE’s approach is holistic and multifaceted. It not only addresses the immediate needs of BIPOC entrepreneurs but also seeks to address the root causes of displacement and economic inequality. The organization achieves this by empowering community members and creating a more equitable society through collective action.
CLTRE is a community-led and community-driven organization, with deep roots in the community it serves and works in close partnership with other community-based organizations. By supporting CLTRE, funders can help to build and strengthen community-led initiatives that are grounded in the needs and aspirations of the people they serve.
“The partnership between Sol Collective and Unseen Heroes has been instrumental in the success of CLTRE. It is a testament to what can be achieved when organizations come together for a common purpose.”
CLTRE’s mission is aligned with the values of many funders who are committed to social justice and equity. By supporting CLTRE, funders can contribute to the fight against systemic racism and displacement of marginalized communities.
Finally, CLTRE has a vision for the future that is ambitious and inspiring. It seeks to create a world where BIPOC entrepreneurs have access to the resources and support they need to thrive and contribute to their communities. By supporting CLTRE, funders can be part of a movement that is working towards a more just and equitable society.
The impact of CLTRE’s work extends beyond the pilot program with the City of Sacramento. The organization has already provided technical assistance to BIPOC-led organizations, facilitated community-driven planning processes, and increased access to affordable housing for marginalized communities.
By investing in CLTRE, funders can support an organization that has a proven track record of success and is poised to make a significant impact on the community it serves.
In summary, CLTRE’s innovative approach to community-driven development, coupled with its proven track record of success, makes it an ideal candidate for funders looking to support organizations that are committed to creating a more just and equitable society.
