CDFIs are the oil in the engine of our economy. They support small businesses with patient flexible capital, when they need it the most; when they are starting out. Without support for these institutions, small businesses will be blocked by high fees, high interest rates, demand payments, and other predatory behavior that impedes and tanks their efforts to grow the US economy.
I support Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) because their mission aligns with promoting economic opportunity and strengthening underserved communities. The CDFI Fund, part of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, aims to expand economic opportunity by supporting CDFIs, which are entities dedicated to providing financial products and services to populations and areas that traditionally lack sufficient access to these resources. This includes financing homes, supporting small businesses, and investing in local community facilities. CDFIs play a significant role in fostering community development by offering responsible and transparent financial products and services. They ensure that these offerings are affordable, safe, and align with their mission to improve the social and economic conditions of their Target Markets. Additionally, their efforts in promoting transparency, fair practices, and compliance with laws further demonstrate their commitment to community upliftment. The support provided to CDFIs is crucial because they specialize in addressing gaps in access to capital and financial services, thereby promoting economic, housing, and social opportunities in underserved areas. This support helps create a robust network of community development lenders and financial service providers who can sustainably impact low-income communities.
CDFIs have been essential vehicles for moving investment capital into communities that otherwise cannot access capital. We provide important technical assistance and financial support to grow businesses, finance projects, and revitalize communities thanks to investments from the CDFI Fund, which we then leverage with other private capital.