The Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District (FWCBD) was founded in November of 2005 by the business and property owners. The association is a 501(c)(3), which allows the organization to apply for federal, state and locally funded grants, as well as to seek out sponsorships from companies with a philanthropic division. The FWCBD has served as a catalyst for unification of Fisherman's Wharf constituents to support a positive change to their San Francisco neighborhood through marketing initiatives, public realm projects, economic development, and advocacy.