A $500 million program to bring the financial capabilities of Wall Street to ethnically diverse communities throughout California

Highlights:

Small Business Development

Hundreds of millions of dollars in business lending, along with support for non-profit organizations that promote economic development in low- to moderate-income communities throughout California. For more information on business lending in California, visit the Merrill Lynch Business Center or Contact the California Partnership

Affordable Housing Initiatives

Identify strategic opportunities to promote affordable housing opportunities; continuation of participation in various initiatives that promote affordable housing. For more information, download Merrill Lynch California Home Ownership Initiatives

Workforce Development

Assist Merrill Lynch in recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce.

Community Outreach

Seminars, outreach programs, program sponsorships and targeted marketing for underserved areas.

Community Capacity-Building

Grants to support community organizations in their efforts to assist communities to thrive economically.