The Native CDFI Network hosts an Annual Policy & Capacity Building summit where Native CDFI practitioners, funders, policy makers, and other industry partners come together to bridge ideas and resources that will advance Native CDFI efforts to build economic resilience and sustainability. Summit attendance has grown substantially since its inception. This growth is attributed to the recognition of Native CDFIs by funders and policy makers and the impact of NCN.
NCN Annual Policy Summit Review
Driving Advocacy and Innovation in Indian Country
A key focus of NCN’s 5th Annual Summit was on clean energy and its transformative potential for tribal communities. Panels on the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and the Native Community Investment Fund highlighted opportunities for Native CDFIs to play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable energy solutions while strengthening their financial capacity. These discussions underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation in creating a cleaner, more resilient future.
Coming SoonReclaiming Our Wealth,
Building Futures
The 4th Annual Policy & Capacity Building Summit was a three-day event with session topics aimed to foster housing development, home ownership, and green energy solutions in Native Communities. Here are the top three takeaways:
- The Future of the Native CDFI Industry is Bright — and Green.
- The New Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Regulations are a Game-Changer for Indian Country.
- Treasury is Listening to Native CDFIs, Probably More So Than Ever.
Sowing the Seeds for Economic Justice Across Indian Country
The 3rd Annual Policy & Capacity Building Summit included keynote speakers such as Treasurer of the United States, Chief Mutáwi Mutáhash (Many Hearts) Marilynn “Lynn” Malerba, Onna Labeau (Omaha Tribe of Nebraska), Director of the Interior Department’s Office of Indian Economic Development, Senator Tina Smith (D-MN), a member of the Senate’s Indian Affairs and Banking committees, U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids (D-KS), a Ho-Chunk citizen and co-chair of the bipartisan Native American Congressional Caucus, and Jodie Harris, the Director of the Treasury’s CDFI Fund, were part of the packed agenda of other inspiring and influential leaders who champion the Native CDFI industry and advocate for expanded access to capital for Native peoples.
Event Overview