Building Hope: A Message from Dr. Gene Gelgelu

Reflections on how access to capital transforms lives and strengthens communities.

As we approach Give to the Max Day, I’ve been reflecting on how access to capital transforms lives and strengthens communities.

Through the AEDS Loan Fund, entrepreneurs are growing businesses that create jobs, preserve culture, and bring new energy to our neighborhoods. Each business we support sparks a ripple of opportunity that extends far beyond one person. When an entrepreneur opens a business, they hire employees who can support their families, pay for childcare, and invest back into the local economy. In turn, childcare providers, local retailers, and service workers also thrive. This is how community wealth is built — from within.

In the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing stories that reflect the heart of our mission — stories of determination, opportunity, and hope. These stories will appear in our new Building Hope Blog, a space to celebrate how access to opportunity and shared purpose create lasting change.

Your support keeps this mission alive. Every contribution helps sustain the AEDS Loan Fund and ensures that small business owners have the tools, training, and resources to move forward with confidence.

I invite you to follow these stories and, if you are able, make a gift to help us continue this important work. Together, we are Building Hope by investing in people and strengthening the foundation of our shared future.

With gratitude,

Dr. Gene Gelgelu

Founder, President & CEO

African Economic Development Solutions (AEDS)

aeds-mn.org

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