The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (FHLBank San Francisco) has announced $8 million in economic development grants through its Access to Housing and Economic Assistance for Development (AHEAD) program. The 2025 grants will support 64 community projects across Arizona, California, and Nevada, creating or preserving an estimated 14,000 jobs and strengthening local economies. Each organization will receive up to $150,000 to fund initiatives addressing job training, entrepreneurship, housing, and broader community development.
“We are committed to investing in communities across our district and funding organizations that deliver innovative, impactful economic development programs,” said Joseph E. Amato, interim president and CEO of FHLBank San Francisco. “Through the AHEAD program, our member institutions can support nonprofits tackling workforce development, housing, and other critical community needs, driving economic growth where it matters most.”
Since its inception 21 years ago, AHEAD has awarded over $40 million to nonprofits, helping launch projects that create jobs and meet community needs. The 2025 grant cycle, representing a 10% increase over last year, engages 40 member financial institutions, including four participating for the first time.
Grant-funded initiatives span job training, entrepreneurship, capacity building, social services, and housing. Notable 2025 recipients include City National Bank supporting the LA Conservation Corps’ Wildland Firefighter Training Program in Los Angeles, Western Alliance Bank funding Nevada Housing Coalition’s “Keys to the Missing Middle” in Las Vegas, Avenir Financial Credit Union backing Arizona Western College’s Rural Spark entrepreneurship program, and Golden Valley Bank supporting Chico Housing Action Team’s Pathways Rapid Rehousing Program.
AHEAD reflects FHLBank San Francisco’s long-term commitment to fostering economic vitality, expanding affordable housing, and promoting homeownership. Alongside AHEAD, the Bank’s broader community initiatives include the Affordable Housing Program, Empowering Homeownership, Tribal Nations program, and downpayment assistance programs for low- and middle-income first-time homebuyers.
