CDFIs support individuals, small businesses, community facilities in rural, metro, and Native communities in every state in the nation. CDFIs have enjoyed widespread bipartisan support for decades. They leverage federal government dollars with bank and other private sector support. They are a smart and efficient market solution the federal government should be proud to support.
We are a Native CDFI serving the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in western NC. Our work here is critical to supporting new business creation, small business growth, job creation and retention, and housing security for tribal members who have historically endured economic hardship and lack of adequate banking and capital resources. Not to be lumped in with the myriad ways government-funded projects and organizations waste tax dollars, our industry has proven itself a superior investment for the U.S. taxpayers and is one our elected officials should be proud to support.
CDFIs are important for local economic development.