News / Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., JULY 30, 2026 — The Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC) marked its 35th anniversary celebration with the launch of a new Food Impact Fund designed to expand access to flexible, mission-driven capital and technical assistance for food entrepreneurs across the Washington metropolitan area and Baltimore. The Food Impact Fund launches with $1 million in initial capital, including a $500,000 commitment from the Longer Tables Fund, founded by Chef José Andrés, and $500,000 in LEDC capital.

“For 35 years, LEDC has helped individuals, families, and entrepreneurs build stronger financial futures,” said Emi Reyes, Chief Executive Officer of LEDC. “The Food Impact Fund reflects the next chapter of that work, combining capital, technical assistance, and trusted relationships to help food entrepreneurs launch, grow, create jobs, and build lasting wealth.

The announcement was made during LEDC’s 35th Anniversary Celebration on July 15 at La Cosecha in Washington, D.C., where more than 300 entrepreneurs, community leaders, funders, partners, and supporters gathered to celebrate the organization’s impact and future vision.

“Food is hope. Food is opportunity. And food businesses are often the heartbeat of their communities,” said José Andrés. “That’s why I’m proud to support LEDC’s work investing in the people behind these businesses. When we help entrepreneurs succeed, we’re not just growing businesses - we’re creating jobs, strengthening neighborhoods, and building longer tables for everyone.”

In addition to financing, entrepreneurs will have access to business advising, technical assistance, and connections to LEDC’s broader network of partners and resources. 

“Food entrepreneurs bring creativity, culture, jobs, and vitality to our communities, but too many still face barriers to the capital and support they need to grow,” Reyes said. “This fund is designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are and help them build businesses that can thrive for generations.”

To learn more, please visit www.ledcmetro.org/foodimpactfund, or contact Jaime Segui-Asad at [email protected].

About the Latino Economic Development Center:

The Latino Economic Development Center equips individuals, families, and entrepreneurs with the tools and resources they need to build assets, create wealth, and achieve financial stability. Founded in 1991, LEDC provides small-business lending and technical assistance, homeownership and housing counseling, financial empowerment, and direct community investment across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.