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.
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) plays a vital role in building a strong economy! CDFIs are one of the country’s most effective examples of public-private partnership. They attract private capital to help families buy homes, schools and health centers expand, small businesses grow, and communities thrive – especially in places traditional investors don’t reach on their own. CDFIs are important partners in deploying tax credit programs, such as New Markets Tax Credits, which incentivize investments while reducing taxpayer burden. Some of America’s greatest achievements – from the moon landing (and even modern space exploration) to the birth of Silicon Valley – happened because government had the vision to catalyze private innovation and investment. CDFIs operate in that same spirit. Every day we see how smart, targeted investments unlock opportunity and drive prosperity that benefits everyone. CDFIs are effective because they fuel American ingenuity in the places it exists, which is everywhere!
CDFIs are a vital source of capital for the small and micro businesses in our communities, businesses that typically aren’t at the scale to be served by the large banks. They create jobs, generate taxes and keep our communities and economy vibrant and strong.