October 2, 2023, Step Up Savannah is proud to announce the receipt of a $25,000 grant from Wells Fargo to support the Ignite Advantage Co-op, aimed at empowering minority-owned businesses and addressing asset poverty and socio-economic conditions in Savannah, Georgia. This partnership represents a significant step towards fostering generational wealth and economic prosperity within the local community.

Step Up Savannah, bridges the economic divide in Savannah by focusing on asset-building, financial literacy, and equitable access to opportunities. Through the Ignite Advantage Co-op, they aim to empower minority entrepreneurs, providing resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities necessary for sustainable growth and success.

By facilitating access to capital, offering mentorship, and fostering collaboration among minority-owned businesses, Ignite Advantage aims to break down the barriers that have historically hindered economic growth and wealth accumulation in underserved communities. The $25,000 grant from Wells Fargo underscores the bank's deep commitment to advancing economic equity and social progress in the communities it serves.

"Wells Fargo is proud to support Step Up Savannah and their efforts to lift up minority-owned businesses and tackle asset poverty and socio-economic conditions in Savannah,” noted Kristina Christy, Senior Community Impact & Sustainability Specialist for Wells Fargo. “As the Bank of Doing, Wells Fargo takes action to put people and communities first. Doing goes far beyond the investments we make. It is the sum of the impact we have when we work together to tackle societal challenges.”

Savannah, like many other cities across the United States, faces challenges related to income inequality and generational poverty. The Ignite Advantage Co-op aims to address these issues head-on, creating a more inclusive and prosperous environment for minority-owned businesses, ultimately leading to more generational wealth and sustainable socio-economic development.

Step Up Savannah Executive Director, Alicia M. Johnson stated, “We are immensely grateful for the generous support from Wells Fargo, which underscores their commitment to fostering economic equity and social progress in our community. This $25,000 grant will be instrumental in our mission to empower minority-owned businesses through the Ignite Advantage Co-op, paving the way for generational wealth. Together, with partners like Wells Fargo, we are taking meaningful steps towards a brighter, more inclusive future for Savannah."

Step Up Savannah and Wells Fargo invite the community to join them in celebrating this meaningful partnership, as they work together towards a brighter, more prosperous future for Savannah's minority entrepreneurs and the broader community.