Spark Centro receives $1 Million from Bank of America 

Spark Centro, an economic development hub in east Charlotte, announced that it has received $1 million from Bank of America in support of its mission to provide jobs and workforce development, entrepreneurship training, employee recruitment and community networking opportunities. 

The facility will also house nonprofit organizations focused on driving sustainable economic growth in a geographic region prioritized as a part of Corridors of Opportunity, a joint venture of the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. 

“Spark Centro is a game-changer for workforce development and small business growth on Charlotte’s east side,” said Manuel Rey, Interim President & CEO of the Latin American Chamber of Commerce of Charlotte. “Spark Centro will provide the tools, training, and connections to turn potential into prosperity, creating pathways for career growth and entrepreneurial success.” 

Spark Centro is an innovative project incubated by the Latin American Chamber of Commerce of Charlotte (LACCC), a 501c6 organization that serves Charlotte-based Latino-owned businesses and Latino professionals and is comprised of more than 400 members. Construction is planned to begin in 2025 with an opening in 2026. 

“Spark Centro is a transformative initiative that reflects our deep commitment to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities that lift all communities in Charlotte,” said Kieth Cockrell, President of Bank of America Charlotte. “As part of our partnership with LACCC, we are connecting people, ideas and resources to support our business community, drive economic development and create a brighter future for the region.” 

Spark Centro will serve all residents in the Albemarle Corridor, including resources to support the Latino business community, which is the fastest-growing population in Mecklenburg County over the last decade. More than 170,000 people identify as Latino in the county, representing 15% of the total population. 

Bank of America partners with various organizations in the community that focus on improving the lives of individuals and families by investing in health, jobs and strengthening broader community vitality by addressing needs related to small business resiliency and community development. 

Leading the fundraising effort for Spark Centro are Francisco Alvarado (Owner, Marand Builders) and Omar Jorge (CEO, Compare Foods Supermarkets) who are serving as co-chairs of the Spark Centro Campaign Cabinet.