Strengthening small businesses is key to economic development and job creation in Puerto Rico, particularly in regions where women entrepreneurs play an essential role in the growth of their communities. In this regard, FirstBank Puerto Rico was selected by the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (FHLBNY) to receive a $50,000 grant as part of the 2025 Small Business Recovery Grant Program.

The funds benefited ten women entrepreneurs participating in the Business Training Program of the Centro para Puerto Rico in Mayagüez, each of whom received $5,000 to strengthen their operations, foster new growth opportunities, and continue contributing to local economic development.

This initiative aligns with the FirstBank for Business approach, a model through which the institution integrates financial solutions, digital tools, and value-added resources to support businesses at different stages of their development, acting as a long-term strategic partner.

“At FirstBank, we firmly believe in the power of female entrepreneurship as a driver of economic development. Supporting women entrepreneurs who strengthen their communities and create employment opportunities is part of our commitment to accompanying small businesses at every stage of their growth,” said Lilian Díaz, Executive Vice President of FirstBank’s Business Group.

Collaboration between financial institutions and community organizations reaffirms the value of strategic partnerships in fostering a more resilient and inclusive business ecosystem in Puerto Rico.