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Supporting businesses and cultural organizations that give New York its unique flavor; for more than 30 years.
 

Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone (UMEZ) is a non-profit community development financing entity that provides flexible capital solutions to strengthen under-resourced communities in Upper Manhattan and beyond. We invest in local entrepreneurs, arts groups, and community institutions to strengthen small businesses, create jobs, and preserve cultural heritage. Our partnerships and programs help sustain vibrant neighborhoods, foster economic opportunity, and ensure the creativity, traditions, and spirit that define New York City continue to thrive.

 

How We Help

Hot Bread Kitchen / Photo: Jennifer May

Hot Bread Kitchen / Photo: Jennifer May

Lending

UMEZ supports projects that provide new job creation as well as those that would be under-capitalized without our loan capital. Rather than competing with traditional lenders, we tend to augment the level of private capital provided. Learn about our products.

Cómo ayudamos.

Si tiene preguntas sobre los productos o servicios de UMEZ comuniquese con Moyram Espino en mespino@umez.org.

 

Programs & Grant Making

UMEZ supports nonprofit cultural organizations and artist-driven projects in Upper Manhattan. Our grants build administrative capacity, support organizational development, and promote sustainability; leading to greater visitorship, new jobs, and increased economic activity, fostering recognition for Upper Manhattan as one of the City's most dynamic cultural hubs.

Studio Museum in Harlem / Photo: Will Ragozzino

Studio Museum in Harlem / Photo: Will Ragozzino

Photo: Tyrone Rasheed

Photo: Tyrone Rasheed

Our Workforce Development Initiative provides financial and technical assistance to catalyze employment and training in Upper Manhattan neighborhoods. Our goal is to facilitate access to quality jobs and career advancement opportunities for unemployed—and underemployed—residents.

 

Our Impact

We’ve been part of some of Upper Manhattan’s most significant projects over the last three decades. From the revitalization of retail on 125th Street, to investments in the community’s iconic cultural institutions — including the legendary Apollo Theater, Museo Del Barrio and The Studio Museum in Harlem — UMEZ remains committed to delivering community impact and economic opportunity. Today we are poised to deliver our business investment services CITYWIDE.