Wildcat MicroFund expands with $1.2 million gift from America First Credit Union
OGDEN, Utah – Weber State University’s Wildcat MicroFund has received a $1.2 million gift from America First Credit Union to expand its services throughout Utah.
The Wildcat MicroFund focuses on serving socially and economically disadvantaged communities throughout northern Utah, offering cash grants of up to $3,000 and additional networking opportunities to Weber State students and area entrepreneurs.
The $1.2 million gift will allow the fund to expand its services to Utah communities beyond Weber, Davis, Morgan and Box Elder counties.
“We serve the next generation of entrepreneurs by giving them a platform to test their ideas in a real-world setting and bring brand awareness to their local communities,” said Catherine Holbrook Clark, manager of the Wildcat MicroFund. “The opportunities that this funding provides not only make a profound impact on the entrepreneurs themselves, but on their families and the community as well.”
Since 2018, the microfund has awarded over 300 grants to businesses in a variety of industries, including construction, education, outdoor reaction and tourism.
Ogden resident Tania Rodriguez is a recent recipient of a microfund grant. Rodriguez operates Los Churros del Norte, a traveling food stand that serves up churros, buñuelos and other Mexican food. She worked several different jobs before she decided to pursue her true passion – cooking.
“My churros are made from scratch, by hand, and they taste just like a small piece of my beautiful country of Mexico,” she said. “Making churros gives me the opportunity to share something special.”
When the truck that transports her churro cart broke down, Rodrigues couldn’t afford to fix or replace it. A friend told her to apply to the microfund, and she received enough money to buy a new truck to keep working at local events.
America First Credit Union “could not be happier to partner with the Wildcat MicroFund,” said Tammy Gallegos, AFCU’s chief strategic engagement officer.
“The Wildcat MicroFund is an incredible opportunity for entrepreneurs to launch, build and grow their venture,” she said. “We're thrilled that through this program we get to be part of the journey for individuals furthering innovation here in Utah.”
“The most fulfilling part of being a small business owner is that I’m a step closer to making my American dream a reality,” she said.
For more information, visit the Wildcat MicroFund website.
Jessica Kokesh, social media editor
801-626-7316, jessicakokesh@weber.edu- Contact:
Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.edu