The DC Solidarity Economy Loan Fund provides non-extractive financing to DC-area cooperatives. We’ve already reached our goal of providing $2 million in loans to local coops, and wanted to share a couple of highlights from 2024.
We’re excited to announce that Swamp Rose Co-op will be receiving a loan from DC SELF to buy a truck, trailer, and new equipment, allowing them to expand their operations. Swamp Rose is a local landscaping cooperative that works with native plants to transform yards into dynamic, ecologically thriving spaces. You can celebrate this exciting time with them by signing up for a consultation or by shopping their summer plant sales!
Earlier this year, DC SELF made its biggest investment to date with Community Purchasing Alliance, a DC cooperative that leverages the buying power of community institutions like small businesses, schools, retirement communities, housing co-ops, nonprofits, and congregations to accelerate progress towards sustainability, equity, and justice. The $750,000 loan will help CPA increase their amount of local racial equity purchasing. This summer, we’ve already begun to see the effects of this partnership beyond the loan, including a regional small business referral program and a pilot program with Swamp Rose Co-op offering climate smart landscaping.