CDFIs are most proximate to communities needs and provide responsible, flexible capital solutions that support new business starts, job creation / retention, financial acumen building and skills development, and delivery of critical goods and services to opportunity rich communities.
Native CDFIs are important to fixing the housing crisis in Indian Country. They are a way for Tribes to attract capital that leave Tribal members in control.
CDFIs benefit communities like Syracuse, which have experienced economic decline due to the withdrawal of large employers (like Carrier, GE, etc.) but are also seeing revitalization.