BMO takes action to support economic justice and opportunity in Latino communities

Across California, Latino-led organizations are working tirelessly to build a brighter future for their communities. They are creating opportunities for economic advancement, advocating for health equity, and fostering cultural vibrancy. Latinos are twice as likely to start a business as any other demographic, and Latinas are starting businesses at six times the national average, demonstrating the incredible entrepreneurial spirit within this community. At the heart of this movement is the Latino Community Foundation (LCF), California’s largest Latino-serving foundation, and BMO, is proud to stand alongside them. 

LCF has been a driving force in empowering Latino communities since its inception in 1989. With a mission to unleash the power of Latinos in the state, LCF has built the largest network of Latino philanthropists in the country and invested over $30 million in more than 200 grassroots organizations. As a result of their grant making, capacity building, and advocacy, more than 40% of LCF’s community partners have at least doubled their operating budgets, leading to increased civic leadership and engagement for Latino youth and families. 

“At BMO, we believe in fostering an inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Building the capacity and capability of Latino-led and Latino-serving organizations is one way that we support economic justice and break down systemic barriers faced by Latino communities. It is a testament to our Purpose to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life.” 

– Janie Cervera
Managing Director, Head of Field Services

BMO’s support is fueling two of LCF’s key initiatives: 

• Latino Nonprofit Accelerator:  Established in 2017, this impactful program has already raised over $11 million for Latino-led organizations across California. The Accelerator provides capacity funding, fundraising support, and essential resources – like access to content strategists, design firms, and photographers – to help these organizations build cultural, economic, and civic power within their communities. LCF recognizes that “when these organizations are strong, so are hundreds of thousands of Latino families in California.” 

• Promotora Cooperative Initiative Pilot: This innovative pilot program focuses on health equity and women-led businesses, leveraging the Promotora model – community health workers who are trusted members of the communities they serve. LCF aims to empower Promotoras to build cooperatives, providing essential health education and resources while creating sustainable entrepreneurial opportunities. This initiative builds on the success of LCF’s Just Recovery Promotora Network, formed after the 2017 Northern California firestorm, which has helped improve the lives of Latino and immigrant families through increased access to healthcare, higher voter turnout, and enhanced emergency preparedness. 

This enduring partnership, built on shared values and a commitment to creating lasting change, is now strengthened through a significant investment. BMO has announced a $1.5 million grant to LCF, enabling them to expand their reach and deepen their impact across California. 

“We are deeply thankful for BMO’s powerful support. This grant is more than just funding—it’s fuel for building community power and pushing for real, transformative change. Through this partnership, we’re equipping Latino leaders to challenge systemic inequities and drive lasting impact in their communities.”

– Julián Castro
CEO of LCF