Our flagship environmental program combats coastal erosion through reforestation. Since 2023, we’ve planted 11,480 trees across 9 municipalities, aiming to reach 25,000 by 2026.
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An e-waste recycling initiative that began with internal devices and expanded to include customers. In 2024, we collected 1,331 units (372 lbs), with proceeds benefiting Martin Peña Recicla.
We’ve built a robust waste management program that recycles paper, electronics, wood, batteries, carpet tiles, organic waste, heavy metals and single stream plastics; minimizing our environmental footprint.
2,621 metric tons CO2 emissions avoided
13,203 trees preserved
2,098 cubic yards of landfill space saved
2.2 millones de kWh de energía ahorrada
4,122 metric tons of water preserved
2,621 metric tons CO2 emissions avoided
13,203 trees preserved
2,098 cubic yards of landfill space saved
2.2m kWh of energy saved
4,122 metric tons of water preserved
Founding partner of Puerto Rico’s science and environment learning center
Coastal cleanup and marine conservation ally
Annual funding and volunteer support through 2026
We originated 1,268 loans under $1M in 2024, providing $154 million in support for local small businesses.
We help families access homeownership through federally backed mortgage programs. In 2024, we closed 827 loans totaling $141 million.
Through our partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, FirstBank supports first-time homebuyers in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In 2024, we granted $58,500 across 3 households to help cover down payments, closing costs, and nonprofit counseling services.
FirstBank helps more families access affordable housing by participating in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. In 2024, we supported 342 families in purchasing their first home, totaling $30.4 million in mortgage financing.
We financed $781 million in community development loans across 66 projects to stimulate local economies and revitalize underserved areas.
In 2024, FirstBank participated in the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York’s Small Business Recovery Grant. We awarded $50,000, the maximum allowed, across six small businesses to support their economic recovery and growth.
As a certified lender for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), FirstBank helps small businesses access financing with favorable terms. In 2024, we issued 62 SBA-backed loans totaling $17 million, offering long-term support that improves cash flow and makes capital more accessible to local businesses.
In partnership with Grupo Guayacán, we empower start-ups through training, mentorship, and funding. In 2024, we awarded a $20,000 prize through our “One with the Environment Award” to Eco Arenas Vidrio Co for its glass recycling innovation.
Our free educational program offers training in finance, marketing, and digital tools to help small businesses grow and scale.
We offer pop-up retail space to Puerto Rican entrepreneurs during peak seasons, connecting them with thousands of customers.
Our YOU First College Program is designed to support students in their academic and career development through scholarships and real-world learning experiences, made possible by strategic alliances with various universities in Puerto Rico. The program consists of four initiatives; each tailored to a different phase of the student educational journey.
Our YOU First College Program is designed to support students in their academic and career development through scholarships and real-world learning experiences, made possible by strategic alliances with various universities in Puerto Rico. The program consists of four initiatives; each tailored to a different phase of the student educational journey.
In 2024, FirstBank awarded $85,000 in scholarships to 34 students with strong academic performance and limited financial resources.
Since 2011, the First Internship Program offers hands-on experience and exposure to the banking sector. In 2024, we hosted spring and summer sessions with participation from 20 student interns who worked on projects related to business operations, optimization, and systems automation.
“The Outfit” provides University of Puerto Rico students on the Río Piedras campus access to professional attire for job interviews, internships, and career-related events.
This free educational program equips students with practical tools and workshops focused on entrepreneurship, career development, and financial education. Participants receive expert-led training on topics such as access to capital, credit management, cybersecurity, and business strategy.
Financial education
Affordable Housing
Economic Development
Community development
Revitalization/ Stabilization
At FirstBank, we have two formal channels for receiving requests to support community programs and initiatives. Both programs have distinct criteria and evaluation processes. We recommend reviewing the corresponding guidelines before submitting a request.
This program supports community programs aligned with our focus areas: education and entrepreneurship, financial empowerment, and environmental sustainability. Requests are evaluated based on their alignment with these themes, as detailed in the program guidelines.
Proposals must be submitted with the corresponding form to: impactosocial@firstbankpr.com
Focused on projects that meet the criteria of the CRA Act, especially those benefiting low- and moderate-income communities. Requests are evaluated based on the amount requested and must include specific documentation, as detailed in the program guidelines
Requests must be submitted to: donaciones@firstbankpr.com