LATIN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES
CAPITAL ACCESS PROGRAM

Focus to Attract Private Equity Investors to Latino Businesses

LOS ANGELES, Calif., April 13, 2004--- Today, the Latin Business Association (LBA) announced a unique equity-oriented access-to-capital program for the LBA’s 1300 members. The program will consist of an educational element, which will provide members with knowledge needed to participate in the capital markets; and matching piece for selected firms to present their company to respected institutional investors during monthly “pitch” sessions. The program will be hosted by the LBA Institute on the second Tuesday of each month, beginning with today’s session at the City Club Bunker Hill in downtown Los Angeles.

Partners for the program include Platinum Sponsor, Microsoft Corporation; and 1st PMF Bancorp, a nationwide commercial lender based in Los Angeles, California and a long-time supporter of the LBA. In addition, the Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) has formed a strategic relationship with the organization. Institutional investment groups participating in the program include Fontis Capital, Fulcrum Capital, Nogales Investors, Rosewood Capital, and Yucaipa Corporate Initiatives Fund.

As a member of the LBA Finance Committee’s Advisory Board, Engage Capital’s President and CEO David Takata said, “This is a historic date. Today will be remembered as the first time Latino-owned businesses have had investors coming to them en masse, rather than the other way around. The New Demographics of America begins here where the LBA’s leadership understands the economic clout the membership brings to the table. We are honored to support the LBA in this leap forward.”

Commenting on 1st PMF Bancorp’s participation, Stephen Perl, CFO and Vice President stated, “We have been a long-time supporter of Hispanic businesses, assisting entrepreneurs with start-up working capital and lines of credit when traditional banks cannot. With this program, we can work with equity investors to ensure that these growing businesses are fully funded.”

Speaking for the LBA, Finance Committee Chairwoman, Martha Montoya said, “We are confident that LBA member firms represent the finest in business, and can assure professional investors that they will be seeing high-quality companies. The structure of this program allows all of our members to grow comfortable with the equity funding process, while immediately satisfying the needs of many who are ready for institutional equity capital today.”

About the Latin Business Association

The Latin Business Association (LBA), established in 1976, is the nation's largest organization representing the issues and concerns of Latino business owners. The primary purpose of the LBA is to promote the growth of Latino-owned businesses by fostering development opportunities, providing educational workshops, and formulating effective advocacy programs.

About Engage Capital

Engage Capital, founded in 2002, is a diversified investment firm that specializes in unique research as a method of identifying and maximizing value for its clients. The company focuses on the impact of the rapidly changing demographics in the United States. Engage Capital is one of top investment firms in the country demonstrating knowledge of minority consumer behavior and buying preferences.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

About 1st PMF Bancorp

1st PMF Bancorp also provides working capital for small to mid size businesses needing Receivable Finance, Factoring, Trade Finance for the Importing and Exporting of goods, Asset Based lines of Credit and Purchase Order/Inventory finance to businesses with under $20 million in annual sales nationwide.