Circle announces Foundation, initial phase aims to enhance financial resilience of small businesses in the U.S.

**Circle Launches Foundation to Boost Global Financial Resilience & Inclusivity** On December 2, Circle announced the launch of the Circle Foundation—a new charitable initiative focused on advancing financial resilience and inclusivity in the U.S. and worldwide. Funded by Circle’s “Pledge 1%” equity commitment (part of a global program uniting thousands of companies to donate a portion of their equity and resources to charitable causes), the foundation will support organizations strengthening the daily financial systems people rely on. This includes groups backing U.S. small businesses and those modernizing international humanitarian aid infrastructure. In its initial phase, the Circle Foundation will prioritize enhancing financial resilience for U.S. small businesses. These businesses employ nearly half of America’s private-sector workforce and drive over 40% of domestic GDP, yet many struggle to access affordable financing, digital tools, and the capital readiness needed to grow. Through grantmaking, the foundation will partner with Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)—mission-driven lenders that fill critical gaps left by traditional finance. It will prioritize results-focused, tech-forward CDFIs that share best practices and data-driven insights across their networks, amplifying the impact of every dollar invested.