U.S. Treasury CDFI Fund
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s CDFI Fund promotes economic revitalization in some of our nation’s most disinvested communities by offering tailored resources and innovative programs that invest federal dollars alongside private sector capital in community development financial institutions (CDFIs). The CDFI Fund is vital to the work these mission-driven organizations do every day on the ground in communities across America to direct capital where it’s needed most.
CDFIs are encouraged to apply for CDFI certification and participate in CDFI Fund programs that inject new sources of capital into neighborhoods that lack access to financing for small businesses, affordable housing, community facilities, quality jobs, and more.
CDFIs Leverage Capital
The CDFI Fund’s innovative model invests public sector capital in CDFIs alongside private capital to catalyze economic development in disinvested communities. CDFIs create a multiplier effect by leveraging $8 in private sector investment for every $1 in public funding.
CDFI Certification
Established by the Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994, the CDFI Fund offers U.S. Treasury Department certification to qualified community development banks, credit unions, loan funds, and venture capital funds. CDFI certification is an established credential recognized by the federal government and the private sector.
Are you a community lender looking to become a certified CDFI?
The CDFI Fund released the revised application in December 2023. We encourage OFN members to contact us with their questions.
CDFI Fund Programs
The CDFI Fund provides federal resources to CDFIs through valuable programs. Capital provided through CDFI Fund programs builds the capacity of CDFIs to offer loans, investments, business counseling, basic banking products and services, and financial capability services.
Special Initiatives
The CDFI Fund also offers other specialized monetary awards and training opportunities like those featured below to invest in and build the capacity of CDFIs serving specific populations and needs.