CDFIs and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Take Center Stage at U.S. Treasury Panel Discussion

Washington, D.C. — On Thursday, September 19, 2024, leaders in the community development financial institution (CDFI) sector convened to examine the intersection of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) $27 billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) programs and the pivotal role CDFIs play in advancing this historic initiative. Held in the historic Cash Room of the U.S. Treasury building at 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, the public meeting of the Advisory Board featured a dynamic panel discussion.

Upton was welcomed by newly appointed CDFI Fund Advisory Board members Janie Hipp (Chickasaw Nation) and Susan Chapman Plumb (Cherokee Nation). Reflecting on their appointments, Upton emphasized the importance of Native representation on the Advisory Board, stating, “It is so important to have Native Americans on this Advisory Board. With Janie and Susan, I am confident they will strongly represent the interests of Native communities.”

The panel, which included prominent CDFI leaders such as Pete Upton, Executive Director of the Native CDFI Network, Beth Bafford, Donna Gambrell, Amir Kirkwood, and Cathie Mahon, provided a comprehensive analysis of the opportunities and challenges CDFIs face in implementing climate-focused initiatives.

Upton spotlighted the unique challenges confronting Indian Country as Native CDFIs work to deploy capital from the $400 million Clean Communities Investment Accelerator (CCIA) award. He emphasized the critical need for increased support and collaboration to prevent Native communities from being left behind in the clean energy transition. The panel delved into the complexities of financing clean energy projects in some of the most rural and economically disadvantaged regions in the U.S., underscoring ongoing efforts to achieve energy equity in Indian Country.