LOS ANGELES, CA — The Black Equity Collective (BEC), in partnership with Nonprofit Finance Fund (NFF), proudly announces the release of a groundbreaking new report of survey findings: The California Black-led Organizations: Strengthening California’s Economy and Communities.

This first-of-its-kind report sheds light on the essential—and often underrecognized—role of Black-led organizations (BLOs) across California. Drawing on original survey data and in-depth analysis, the report reveals how Black-led nonprofits are fueling economic growth, fostering community resilience, and advancing racial equity across the state, despite persistent funding inequities.

“Black-led nonprofits are not only providing essential services in areas such as health, safety, and social justice—they are also creating community wealth and economic resilience,” said Kaci Patterson, Chief Architect and Founder of Black Equity Collective. “This report makes it clear: BLOs are valuable contributors to California’s economy and deserve equitable investment and support.”

Despite these contributions, BLOs face entrenched funding disparities that threaten their ability to meet growing community needs. With 80% of surveyed organizations reporting staff shortages, the capacity to sustain and scale their impact remains at risk.

The survey, conducted by research partner NFF, gathered responses from 217 Black-led organizations throughout California. Key findings from these survey respondents:

• Economic Power: Black-led nonprofits are job creators and economic drivers in the state, employing over 4,000 individuals. In fiscal year 2023, these organizations generated more than $335 million in salaries and contributed $22 million in payroll taxes.

• Service & Impact: Beyond their economic contributions, Black-led nonprofits serve as vital pillars for community support, using innovative approaches to addressing critical issues such as health services, violence prevention, community safety, policy change, and racial justice.

• Capacity Challenges: Despite their substantial impact, 80% of these organizations report current staffing levels that are insufficient to fully meet community needs.

• Call for Investment: The report emphasizes that sustained investment and capacity-building are essential to maintain and expand these crucial services. 

“The report tells a powerful story—backed by real data—on the economic benefit created by Black-led organizations in the communities they serve,” said Annie Chang, Vice President of Community Engagement at Nonprofit Finance Fund. “We hope this data will drive deeper collaboration and investment that centers equity, trust, and accountability.”

BEC is calling on funders, policymakers, and stakeholders to recognize the value of Black-led nonprofits and to invest in their growth through equitable funding practices and policies that ensure their permanence and impact. 

Added Patterson, 'Funders hold an important role in sustaining and supporting the impactful work of our organizations and amplifying the economic impact they can have on their communities as job creators and service providers.”

For the full report, please visit https://nff.org/report/california-black-led-organizations.

About the Black Equity Collective:

The Black Equity Collective (BEC) is a network of funders and nonprofit leaders committed to investing in the long-term sustainability of Black-led organizations in Southern California (Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire). We transform the relationship between philanthropy and Black-led organizations for more equitable funding. Learn more about BEC by visiting www.blackequitycollective.org

About Nonprofit Finance Fund 

Nonprofit Finance Fund® (NFF®) is a nonprofit lender, consultant, and advocate. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped organizations access the money and resources they need to realize their communities’ aspirations. Alongside others, we’re working to build community wealth and well-being and put affordable housing, essential services, quality jobs, and excellent education within reach of more people. To learn more, visit https://nff.org/.