Founding Partnership Spotlight: Wells Fargo – Strengthening Small Businesses & Communities

As we celebrate 15 years of advocating for AAPI businesses and driving economic growth, we recognize the partners who have been with us every step of the way. Wells Fargo has been a steadfast supporter of the California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce (CalAsian Chamber) since our founding in 2010, playing a critical role in ensuring that underserved small businesses have access to the financial resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

A Partnership Built on Economic Empowerment

From day one, Wells Fargo has recognized the power of small businesses to fuel local economies and create jobs. As one of our founding partners, they understood that small businesses often face unique barriers, from access to capital to navigating complex regulatory landscapes. By supporting the Chamber, Wells Fargo has helped ensure that small business owners in underserved communities have the tools and resources they need to succeed.

“Wells Fargo is committed to building and growing small businesses,” said Kären Woodruff, Senior Vice President of Community Relations, Philanthropy, and Community Impact for Northern, Central, and Coastal California. “With nearly half of all Americans employed by a small business, entrepreneurs are essential to a vibrant economy and local jobs. We strengthen communities and help create local jobs by investing in underserved small business owners.”

This shared commitment has helped the Chamber expand its technical assistance programs, strengthen supplier diversity initiatives, and provide leadership training that empowers small business owners to scale and thrive.

Driving Impact Through Collaboration

Throughout the years, Wells Fargo has continued to support the Chamber’s ability to deliver meaningful support to underserved small businesses. Their ongoing commitment has allowed us to develop programs that address the evolving needs of entrepreneurs, from adapting to new environmental regulations to accessing new market opportunities.

“Wells Fargo supports strong organizations that provide results for economic development across the state,” Woodruff shared. “The CalAsian Chamber continues to demonstrate their ability to deliver results to small businesses—whether it is technical assistance, supplier diversity, training for environmental requirements, or creating access to new pathways to expand the power and impact of small businesses on the local and regional economy. They have a proven record of impact and collaboration that aligns well with our strategy of creating a vibrant community.”

One of the most significant ways Wells Fargo has helped amplify the Chamber’s impact is by supporting efforts to bring together diverse stakeholders. The Chamber has been instrumental in convening state and regional business organizations to develop solutions that advance economic growth, and Wells Fargo’s investment has been a driving force behind these initiatives.

“The CalAsian Chamber was instrumental in bringing all statewide chambers together to find ways to partner on larger initiatives and provide additional access pathways to those who need it most,” said Woodruff. “Helping others better understand where gaps and opportunities exist is a critical component of serving more small businesses and strengthening the economy for all.”

A Lasting Commitment to AAPI Communities

Beyond supporting small businesses, Wells Fargo has demonstrated a deep commitment to the broader AAPI community. Their work extends beyond financial services—they are dedicated to preserving the traditions, cultures, and economic contributions of AAPI communities across the country.

“Wells Fargo values the traditions of the Asian community and is committed to helping Asian customers, communities, and nonprofit organizations achieve financial success and create long-term economic growth,” Woodruff emphasized. “We strive to be a leader in every community we serve, including the very important and growing Asian community—the fastest-growing ethnic group in the United States.”

Looking Forward: Building on 15 Years of Impact

As we look to the future, Wells Fargo remains a key partner in advancing economic opportunity for underserved small businesses. Their commitment to financial empowerment, advocacy, and entrepreneurship ensures that the Chamber can continue creating lasting impact for generations to come.

With dedicated partners like Wells Fargo, the Chamber’s mission remains strong: to support, uplift, and empower the underserved small businesses and the AAPI community across California. As we celebrate 15 years of success, we are grateful for their unwavering support and look forward to continuing our work together to build a more equitable and prosperous economy.