For nearly a decade, Austin Community Foundation’s partnership with PeopleFund has demonstrated how strategic investment can open doors for entrepreneurs who fuel our region’s economic vitality. Through FundATX, ACF’s impact investing program, we provide capital to organizations creating pathways to economic mobility—especially for communities historically excluded from traditional financing. Our continued investment in PeopleFund’s BIPOC Small Business Accelerator reflects this commitment, helping more Central Texas entrepreneurs build resilient, thriving businesses.
PeopleFund’s Impact
PeopleFund’s mission is to create economic opportunity and financial stability for underserved people and communities by providing access to capital, education, and resources to build healthy small businesses. One of their programs, the Small Business Accelerator which includes but is not limited to the BIPOC and the Military-Connected accelerators, equips entrepreneurs from all backgrounds with training, mentorship, and financial tools that help transform business ideas into sustainable enterprises.
To date, 415 entrepreneurs have graduated from PeopleFund’s Small Business Accelerator, creating or retaining over 1500 jobs, 78% of businesses are still operating three years after graduation. More than 90% of these graduates participated in the BIPOC Small Business Accelerator. These outcomes reflect a model designed to support the long-term health of both business owners and the communities they serve.
Brewing Business: Flora Coffee
One example of PeopleFund’s impact is the story of Josh Whitehead, founder of Flora Coffee. Like many early-stage entrepreneurs, Josh had a clear vision and a thoughtful plan, but found that traditional lenders were hesitant to support his emerging business.
“When traditional banks turned us away, PeopleFund believed in Flora Coffee,” Josh shared. “PeopleFund didn’t just provide capital—they helped build resilience.”
Beyond startup capital, Josh received a grant for completing additional business training through the Accelerator. That training soon became critical. When Flora Coffee faced an unexpected week-long closure, the financial buffer and business skills Josh gained helped his company survive a stressful moment that could have closed its doors for good.
Even after Josh repaid the loan, PeopleFund continued to support him.
“What truly sets PeopleFund apart is their commitment beyond the loan,” he said. “They offer resources, mentorship, and guidance long after…it’s clear they’re investing in people and communities.”
How Impact Investing Through FundATX Makes Growth Possible
Impact investing allows ACF to extend its reach beyond traditional grantmaking. Through FundATX, ACF provides low-interest loans to organizations advancing economic mobility in Central Texas. These investments generate immediate community benefit—and as loans are repaid, the capital is reinvested, creating a continuous cycle of opportunity.
By offering below-market loans, ACF enables PeopleFund to expand access to capital for entrepreneurs with the vision to build successful businesses but who face barriers to traditional financing.
In turn, PeopleFund pairs that capital with mentorship, education, and technical assistance to ensure entrepreneurs are positioned for long-term success.
Together, this partnership strengthens small businesses across Central Texas and fuels a more vibrant, inclusive regional economy.
Join the Impact
PeopleFund has been a cornerstone partner of FundATX since the program began, demonstrating what’s possible when mission-driven investment aligns with strong community leadership. Their work, and the success stories of entrepreneurs like Josh, shows how targeted capital can spark opportunity.
As Josh puts it, “To those considering investing in PeopleFund: your support has real, measurable impact. I’m living proof.”
Want to learn how fundholders at ACF can get involved with FundATX? Contact us for more details.
