TMC Community Capital and Wells Fargo Help Small Businesses Build a Lasting Legacy Beyond the World Cup
More than $600,000 deployed through the World Stage Ready Forgivable Loan Program helps entrepreneurs prepare for one of California's biggest economic moments
Los Angeles, Calif. — Long before the first World Cup match was played, TMC Community Capital recognized that many California small businesses would need more than an influx of customers to benefit from one of the largest economic moments in the state's history. It launched the World Stage Ready Forgivable Loan Program, backed by a $700,000 grant from Wells Fargo, helping business owners invest in staffing, inventory, equipment, and operations before demand peaked. Now that the final whistle has blown, the program is demonstrating how investing ahead of opportunity can create lasting economic impact for local businesses.
The forgivable loans were intentionally designed to meet a growing need. Nationally, nearly one-third of small businesses seeking financing are looking for less than $50,000—capital that can make the difference between turning away customers and expanding to meet demand. For many entrepreneurs, relatively small investments are enough to hire an employee, increase inventory, improve operations, or purchase equipment that positions the business for long-term success.
The World Stage Ready program paired affordable capital with the opportunity for loan forgiveness, allowing entrepreneurs to invest confidently while strengthening their financial profile through responsible repayment. The result is not only immediate business growth but also a stronger foundation for accessing future financing.
To celebrate and connect entrepreneurs with their communities, TMC Community Capital hosted its Run Your Business 5K in Los Angeles and San Jose, bringing together more than 300+ community members, 20 local small business vendors, and 10 business resource organizations for two free events centered around entrepreneurship, financial fitness, and community empowerment. Several participating vendors had also received World Stage Ready funding, giving attendees the opportunity to support businesses that had invested in preparing for the moment like Andrea Lacy, owner of Luv’s Brownies.
For Andrea Lacy, owner of Luv's Brownies, the program made expansion possible. She used the funding to purchase a second food truck, giving her the ability to serve more customers, participate in larger events, and grow her business beyond a single location. The investment positioned her business for growth during the World Cup and beyond, creating additional capacity that will continue generating revenue long after the tournament ends.
The World Stage Ready Forgivable Loan Program was built on the belief that neighborhood businesses deserve to share in moments that transform entire regions. When entrepreneurs have the resources to prepare before opportunity arrives, the benefits extend far beyond a single event, translating into stronger revenue, job creation and economic activity for the local economy. The successful approach of pairing forgivable loan capital with coaching by TMC Community Capital empowered business owners to capitalize on increased tourism and learn lessons for future major events headed to the state.