CHARLOTTE, NC/APRIL 7, 2026 - Wells Fargo announced a transformative $6 million investment in Charlotte’s Historic West End during a special event held April 7, 2026, inside Gambrell Auditorium at Biddle Hall on the campus of Johnson C. Smith University.
The gift—delivered through the Wells Fargo Foundation—will support affordable housing, small business development, workforce training, and nonprofit capacity-building. The investment reinforces a longstanding partnership between Wells Fargo, community organizations, the City of Charlotte, and Johnson C. Smith University, all working to expand opportunity and economic mobility across West Charlotte.
Dr. Valerie Kinloch, JCSU’s 15th president, welcomed guests and reflected on the institution’s enduring mission and forward-looking vision along the West Corridor.
“Founded in 1867, Johnson C. Smith University has always been a beacon of opportunity,” Kinloch said. “Today, we are firmly in a New Era of Excellence—producing graduates shaped by a rich educational experience and innovative programs like esports and sport management. We are deeply engaged in ensuring that educational and economic opportunities are accessible to our students and our community.”
Dr. Boris Henderson, Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement, collaborated with the Wells Fargo team to bring the event to life on the campus of JCSU.
“The Wells Fargo $6 million dollar commitment to communities across West Charlotte reflects the company's longstanding support in addressing Charlotte's critical challenges such as the need for affordable housing, food insecurity, the need for greater economic empowerment and community revitalization,” Henderson said.
Jason Rosenberg, Wells Fargo Head of Public Affairs, emphasized the company’s continued commitment to West Charlotte.
“We measure growth in access to affordable housing and jobs that turn into careers,” Rosenberg said. “This investment reflects our continued commitment to partnering with communities to create lasting opportunity.”
The $6 million investment will support six West Charlotte-based nonprofits focused on housing stability, workforce development, and small business sustainability.
According to Wells Fargo leadership, the investment will fund a range of initiatives designed to create enduring stability in the small business and non-profit sectors.
- Freedom Communities will develop 12 affordable rental units to promote housing stability and economic mobility.
- Lakeview Neighborhood Alliance will construct 15 accessory dwelling units, expanding affordable housing options while incorporating solar energy and sustainability measures.
- ASPIRE Community Capital will support 24 small business owners through its Financial Empowerment for Growth program.
- CLT Alliance Foundation will provide career readiness programming to strengthen workforce pathways.
- CodePath will build a pipeline to tech careers in Charlotte through partnerships with Johnson C. Smith University and UNC Charlotte, offering computer courses and career counseling.
- West Boulevard Neighborhood Coalition will establish the Three Sisters Market, a full-service grocery store addressing long-standing food access gaps in the community.
For Christopher Capel of ASPIRE Community Capital, the investment delivers immediate impact for local entrepreneurs.
“Of the $6 million gift, Aspire Community Capital was allotted $250,000 to support entrepreneurship,” Capel said. “What makes our program different is that we equip entrepreneurs with the resources and skills necessary to scale their businesses.”
Through a 10-month program, participants are paired with subject-matter experts in accounting, marketing, and operations—removing barriers that often limit small business growth. At the program’s conclusion, entrepreneurs can retain expert support at no cost, while also building financial sustainability through matched savings initiatives.
Local, state, and federal leaders applaud the effort. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles praised the initiative as a model for community progress.
“Philanthropic investments like this, backed by Wells Fargo’s long-standing support of Charlotte, help translate community vision into measurable progress,” Lyles said. “Supporting housing access, workforce training, and local businesses in West Charlotte strengthens the city as a whole.”
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein echoed that sentiment in a video message.
“Wells Fargo’s $6 million investment will support meaningful work on affordable housing, workforce development, and financial literacy,” Stein said.
U.S. Representative Alma Adams also underscored the long-term impact.
“With Wells Fargo’s investment, local leaders can advance their vision and position the community for long-term success,” Adams said.
From affordable housing and workforce development to entrepreneurship and food access, the Wells Fargo investment represents a comprehensive approach to strengthening West Charlotte for the future. For Johnson C. Smith University and its partners, the moment reflects both legacy and momentum—an alignment of institutional mission, corporate investment, and community leadership working together.