East Bay Foundation Grants Fuel Revival for Oakland’s Small Businesses as OUSD Regains Control

Oakland is turning a historic corner—and small businesses are poised to benefit. The East Bay Community Foundation has launched a powerful new round of grants aimed at uplifting Oakland’s local entrepreneurs, especially those hit hardest by decades of disinvestment. The announcement coincides with another major shift: after 20 years under state control, the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) will officially regain local authority in July. Having repaid a $100 million loan, OUSD can now reclaim its future from the state agencies that shuttered schools and slashed services. These twin milestones represent a broader push to restore power, equity, and prosperity to communities long excluded from decision-making. With the support of these new grants, Oakland’s small business owners may finally be able to rebuild—on their terms.