The CDFI Coalition’s Annual Institute is a gathering of CDFIs, investors, policymakers, and industry professionals in Washington, DC, focused on advancing community development and economic opportunity in underinvested communities.
The 2026 Institute provides a timely opportunity to engage with federal policymakers, explore innovative financing strategies, and strengthen advocacy efforts. Attendees will participate in discussions on legislative priorities, tax incentives, investment tools, and strategies to foster growth and wealth building in local and regional economies.
The program includes advocacy training, time for Hill Visits, and panels with investors and leading practitioners in community development finance. Policymakers and representatives from Treasury will also be invited, and we look forward to offering CDFIs a possible chance to engage with them directly. The Institute is the perfect opportunity to connect with peers, gain insights into the policies shaping the field, and share the impact of CDFIs nationwide.
Join us in Washington on March 18th and 19th to be part of the conversation and advance the mission of CDFIs.
When:
March 17th 1-3pm: Making an Impact: Advocacy for CDFIs
(Included with registration)
This hands-on workshop will equip CDFI leaders and staff with the tools, strategies, and best practices needed to effectively engage policymakers. This optional session is included in Institute registration and made possible by the generous support of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
March 18th-19th: 2026 CDFI Coalition Institute General Sessions
Member Early Bird Registration: $600, price increases to $650 February 23rd
Non-Member Early Bird Registration: $650, price increases to $700 February 23rd
Use the link below to book your room at the discounted rate.
Use code: CDFI26
Last day to book discounted rate is February 24th.
Tentative Schedule:
This schedule is entirely tentative and is meant for planning purposes only. A detailed agenda will be available closer to the date of the event.
Tuesday, March 17th
1:00-3:00pm: Advocacy Training (This session is included with Institute Registration)
Wednesday, March 18th
8:30am: Breakfast Available
9:00-12:00pm: Morning Sessions and Panels
12:00-1:00pm: Lunch Panel
1:00-5:00pm: Hill Visits
5:00-6:00pm: Capitol Hill Briefing
6:00-7:00: Reception
Thursday, March 19th
7:30am: Breakfast Available
8:00am-8:30am: Annual Business Meeting
9:00am-12:00pm: Panels and Sessions
~12:30pm: Adjourn
Preview of Topics:
Advocacy and Policy Engagement
With ongoing shifts in federal priorities, CDFIs have a critical opportunity to share their impact and advocate for supportive policies. Discussions will focus on the latest legislative updates and strategies for engaging policymakers. We will have an afternoon of legislative visits ending with a briefing and reception on the hill.
Leveraging Financing and Investment Tools
CDFIs are at the forefront of driving investment and innovation in underserved communities. Sessions will explore how organizations can maximize tools such as Opportunity Zones, tax credits, and other financing programs. Panelists and investors will share insights on market trends, investment strategies, and opportunities to expand access to capital.
Insights from Federal Partners
We hope to provide opportunities to hear from the CDFI Fund and Treasury on program updates, policy directions, and priorities for community development finance.
Fostering Growth
CDFIs play a central role in expanding opportunity in areas they serve. Discussions will highlight strategies for promoting growth, supporting small businesses, and strengthening local and regional economies through community-focused finance.
Sponsorships:
We are excited to offer a number of sponsorship opportunities, for more information please contact Molly Dorion at Molly@rapoza.org .