The NCN Institute Training Series is an interactive collection of workshops for Native CDFI leaders and team members who wish to sharpen their skills and strategies.

Now that the NACA TA and FA applications are in, it is time to start planning for your certification applications. This week, join NCN and Lisa Wagner from Bluestem Consulting, Inc. for an overview of the new CDFI Fund Certification requirements.

Understanding the new Native CDFI Certification Requirements
February 27, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. ET

This workshop is designed for aspiring and emerging (not-yet certified) Native CDFIs. Learn about the new Native CDFI Certification requirements, what they are, and related reporting requirements.

Understanding and Complying with the new Native CDFI Re-Certification Requirements
February 28, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. ET

This training is designed for Native CDFIs that are already certified. Learn about the new Native CDFI Re-Certification requirements, what they are, when existing CDFIs must be in compliance and how the changes impact reporting requirements.

Jack Northrup of New England Market Research, Inc. will continue our training series with strategies to help Native CDFIs build strong balance sheets and how to capitalize on opportunities.

Building a Balance Sheet: Capitalization and Cash Flow
April 3, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. ET

Native CDFIs generally build their balance sheets in order to show that they have the capacity, capabilities, and equity base to perform their mission. Yet, mission-directed assets can often be levered at the expense of the balance sheet but to the benefit of our communities.

This webinar will look at common strategies that CDFIs use to build their balance sheets, their impacts, and possible drawbacks of a too-focused approach. Capitalization is the starting block but accurate cash flow analyses, particularly with loan repayments is key to improving efficiency and accelerating scale. The webinar will prepare you for the second class on secondary markets.

Portfolio Analysis for Loan Sales and the Secondary Market
May 1, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. ET

Native CDFIs are often approached by investors and foundations looking to invest in a CDFI by purchasing all or part of their performing portfolio. How does management assess the value of their loan portfolio? What are the benefits and drawbacks of selling loans on the secondary market? There will always be a tradeoff between a relatively predictable cash flow (loan repayments) and a lump sum received when a loan is sold on the market.

This webinar will examine what your Native CDFI needs to do in order to accurately evaluate your loan portfolio. We will look at discounted cash flows, opportunity costs and capitalization, all with the intent of building strong balance sheets.

Participation in these trainings requires an NCN Membership. All memberships are now based on the calendar year beginning on January 1. If you have not renewed your membership for 2024, please log into your membership portal to renew your account. Or if you need assistance renewing your membership, please email Shauntel Hogan, NCN’s Communications Director, at [email protected].