Congressional Appropriations Action Alert: NCN Calls on All Native CDFIs to Advocate This Week for Increases – Not Cuts! – to the CDFI Fund for FY 2024
The U.S. House of Representatives is slated to vote this week on its Financial Services and General Government spending bill for FY 2024, which contains steep cuts to several programs, including a $46 million decrease in funding for the CDFI Fund (a nearly 15% cut from its enacted FY 2023...
Read MoreNCN Provides Initial Analysis of New Final Rule Governing the Community Reinvestment Act
Based on the focus of NCN’s comments and the priorities the organization shared for how the CRA regulations should be strengthened to better serve Indian Country, the Final Rule overall represents a marked improvement over the current regulations, yet some priorities were not included in the new regulations.
Read MoreNCN Attends 2023 Freedman Bank Forum
NCN's CEO Pete Upton, participated in the 2023 Freedman's Bank Forum, hosted at the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The event underscored the urgency of addressing economic disparities and fostering inclusivity across the nation. The forum featured a dynamic array of sessions, comprising enlightening video messages and invigorating panel discussions.
Read MoreNCN Meets with SBA Administrator Guzman
NCN's CEO Pete Upton met with Administrator Isabel Guzman of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and Jackson Brossy, from the SBA Office of Native American Affairs, on October 25, 2023, in Washington, D.C.
Read MoreNative CDFIs Face Both Challenges and Opportunities in October
Native CDFIs face the pending release of potentially disastrous certification updates from the U.S. Treasury this month. At the same time, the Native CDFI Network is working on an application to tap into a $6 billion pot of money through an accelerator program under the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund.
Read MoreEmpowering Collaboration: Native CDFI Leaders Drive Change
Native Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) leaders recently came together for a meeting with the Consumer Protection Finance Bureau (CFPB) Director Rohit Chopra and Chief Strategy Officer David Uejio.
Read MoreCreating Connections at OFN’s Annual Meeting
The NCN team participated in the 2023 Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) Conference in Washington, D.C. from October 15-18. NCN CEO, Pete Upton, addressed the Native convening session, providing an update on policy advocacy wins of 2023 to date, submission of the only exclusively Native-serving application to the EPA’s Clean Communities...
Read MoreNCN Awarded SBA PRIME Grant
NCN was recently awarded an SBA Program for Investment In Microentrepreneurs (PRIME) grant to build on the successful capacity-building programs and services to NCDFIs.
Read MoreNCN Expands Its Historic Indian Country Bid for Clean Energy – Partners with Climate United
NCN is supporting an application to the National Clean Investment Fund (NCIF) program with Climate United, a consortium comprised of Calvert Impact, Community Preservation Corporation, and Self-Help. NCN’s CEO, Pete Upton, will serve on Climate United’s Advisory Council.
Read MoreNative CDFI Network Submits Only Exclusively Native-Serving Application to EPA’s Clean Communities Investment Accelerator Award Program in Historic Indian Country Bid for Clean Energy
In a historic bid to catalyze clean energy infrastructure development in Native communities across the entire nation, today the Native CDFI Network (NCN) submitted a comprehensive Indian Country application to the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator (CCIA), one of three award programs under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Greenhouse Gas...
Read MoreNCN CEO Pete Upton Champions Students Toward Environmental Studies
On October 6, 2023, CEO, Pete Upton participated as a speaker in the Johnson Scholarship Foundation's annual meeting held in Scottsdale, Arizona. The gathering brought together representatives from ten schools that actively participate in the foundation's business scholarship programs.
Read MoreNCN CEO Pete Upton Remarks on Native “Woven Economies”
On October 3-4, 2023, Pete Upton, the CEO and Chairman of the Native CDFI Network, made a keynote speech at the 2023 Northwest Native Economic Summit.
Read MoreNCN CEO Pete Upton Speaks at the 2023 Clinton Global Initiative
Upton's participation in the panel discussion titled "Financing the Underfinanced: Lessons Learned Across Geographies" was a testament to the Native CDFI Network’s dedication to advancing financial inclusion for indigenous populations.
Read MoreNCNs CEO Pete Upton Presents at the Tribal Business News Great Lakes Tribal Summit
Under the theme "Native CDFIs | Funding Native Housing, Tribal Economies," Upton passionately conveyed the pivotal role that Native Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) are playing in supporting Native homeownership, empowering Indigenous small businesses, and fueling community development initiatives within Indian Country.
Read MoreNCN’s CEO Pete Upton to Speak at the Clinton Global Initiative
Upton was asked to participate at the Clinton Global Initiative to share the work Native CDFIs are doing to grow thriving economies across Indian Country.
Read MoreNCN Hosts Strategy Session with USDA Rural Development
As part of a two-year cooperative agreement with the United States Department of Agriculture – Rural Development (USDA RD) Office of Tribal Relations (OTR), the Native CDFI Network (NCN) will be producing an electronic resource toolkit (NCN e-toolkit) to promote awareness of and increase access to Rural Development programs that...
Read MoreNative CDFI Leaders Share Key Priorities and Concerns with Treasury and the CDFI Fund in Listening Session
Native CDFI leaders from across the country shared their priorities and concerns regarding a number of critical issues with U.S. Department of the Treasury and CDFI Fund officials, a group that included Chief Lynn Malerba, Treasurer of the United States, and Noel Andrés Poyo, Treasury’s Deputy Assistant Secretary for Community...
Read MoreJoin NCN to Apply for Funding Through the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund
NCN is seeking Native CDFI partners to pursue Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund opportunities.
Read MoreNCN CEO Pete Upton Appointed to Justice Climate Fund Board
NCN CEO Pete Upton has been appointed to the Justice Climate Fund Board, led by the Community Builders of Color Coalition.
Read MoreNative CDFI Network / Native Partnership for Housing Southwest Regional Event Recap
The Native CDFI Network, in collaboration with the Native Partnership for Housing and NeighborWorks America, recently hosted a transformative three-day event in Gallup, New Mexico, on August 9 - 11, 2023.
Read MoreNCN Submits Joint Sign-On Letter to Congress Requesting Increased Funding for the CDFI Fund and NACA Program for FY 2024
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) submitted to Congress a formal request letter signed by 38 Native CDFIs and other key stakeholder organizations requesting an increased FY 2024 appropriation for overall funding for the CDFI Fund and the Native American CDFI Assistance (NACA) Program specifically.
Read MoreNCN Wins Energizing Rural Communities Prize
The Native CDFI Network recently won an Energizing Rural Communities Prize!
Read MoreNCN Requests Native CDFI Input on the “State of Native American Housing”
Native CDFI responses are due Wednesday, August 4, by 5:00 p.m. Eastern time so that NCN can submit an official response to the Senate Subcommittee by the requested deadline of August 7, 2023.
Read MoreNative CDFI Network Releases White Paper Outlining EPA Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Opportunities for Native CDFIs
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) released its white paper providing a comprehensive overview of the funding opportunities available to Native CDFIs through the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF), which is being administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Read MoreNCN Releases Quarterly Report Sharing Achievements on Behalf of Native CDFIs
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) today officially released its Q2 2023 policy and advocacy report for NCN members, supporters, partners, and other key stakeholders.
Read MoreNCN’s CEO, Pete Upton, Shares Knowledge with the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City
Tightening credit and rising costs pose challenges for low- and moderate-income (LMI) residents of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City’s region. Community Development Advisory Council (CDAC) members shared their perceptions of trends related to banking volatility.
Read MoreTreasury Department Announces Formal Listening Session with Native CDFIs
Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced it will host a Listening Session for Native Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) on Friday, August 18, 2023 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Eastern time.
Read MoreNCN Informational Webinar and Interested Partners Meeting on EPA Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Opportunities for Native CDFIs
To educate its members, partners, and other key Indian Country stakeholders, the Native CDFI Network (NCN) will be holding an informational webinar providing details on the GGRF next Thursday, July 27 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Eastern time, during which it will release a white paper providing a comprehensive overview...
Read MoreNCN’s CEO Pete Upton Emphasizes the Value of Relationship in Lending
On July 11, 2023, the Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) and the Native CDFI Network (NCN) co-hosted a regional meeting of CDFI Executives that took place at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis.
Read MoreNCN Calls on Native CDFIs and Other Key Organizations to Join Sign-On Letter Requesting Increased Funding for the CDFI Fund and NACA Program for FY 2024
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) invites all Native CDFIs and other key Indian Country stakeholder organizations to sign on to a joint letter to Congress requesting an increased FY 2024 appropriation for overall funding for the CDFI Fund and the Native American CDFI Assistance (NACA) Program specifically.
Read MoreNCN’s CEO Pete Upton was a Featured Speaker at OWEESTA’s Capital Access Convening
Native CDFI Network’s (NCN) CEO, Pete Upton, was the featured speaker during a policy advocacy discussion at the OWEESTA Capital Access Convening.
Read More2023 NCN Institute Training Continues
The 2023 NCN Institute series continues! On June 21, one of our most popular trainers, Jack Northrup of New England Market Research, shared his expertise on Priming the Loan Pipeline.
Read MoreNCN Live Recap: Mel Willie with NeighborWorks America
Mel Willie, Director of Native Partnerships and Strategy, with NeighborWorks America joined "NCN Live" on June 22 for a conversation sharing an overview of NeighborWorks America and the spectrum of services and supports they provide to expand the development of Native housing and homeownership across the country.
Read MoreCongratulations to NCN Members who are SSBCI Award Recipients
The Biden-Harris Administration is announcing approval of the first 15 Tribal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) awards for tribal governments funded by the American Rescue Plan, providing $73 million to 39 Tribal Governments to support Tribal enterprises and small business owners, as part of President Biden’s Investing in America...
Read MoreNCN CEO Pete Upton Testifies at Senate Subcommittee Meeting on the ‘State of Native American Housing’
On Tuesday, June 13, Native CDFI Network's CEO Pete Upton attended a Senate subcommittee meeting on the ‘State of Native American Housing’.
Read MoreNCN’s CEO Pete Upton Amplifies Native Voices in Climate Justice Conversations and Financial Innovation Roundtable
From June 15-16, 2023 NCN's Pete Upton participated on panels at the Financial Innovation Roundtable and the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs - Unapologetically Building Black Equity Conference.
Read MoreNCN’s CEO, Pete Upton, Attends South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition’s 10th Annual Convening
From June 6 to 8, 2023, Native CDFI Network's CEO, Pete Upton, attended South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition's 10th Annual Convening, site visit, and Lender Symposium in Fort Thompson, South Dakota.
Read MoreJoin us for the OFN and NCN Joint Midwest Regional Meeting
Join NCN on July 11, 2023, for the OFN & NCN Joint Midwest Regional Meeting in Minneapolis, MN.
Read MoreIn Case You Missed It: NCN Leadership Institute Training Series Highlights
The 2023 NCN Institute kicked off in May with a sold-out crowd! The virtual training series began with a two-part workshop held on May 3 and 17 focused on Capitalization Planning. This popular workshop was facilitated by Caleb Selby, of Selby Consulting, who has provided a variety of consultative services...
Read MoreNCN’s CEO Pete Upton Attended the U.S. Treasury Convening on Climate-Focused Community Finance
On May 10, 2023, a meeting was held by the U.S. Treasury on climate-focused community finance. Pete Upton, the CEO of the Native CDFI Network, attended the meeting along with various government officials and experts in the field.
Read MoreNCN Submits Two Comment Letters in Support of Native CDFIs that Feature Strong National Support from Key Partners
On Friday, May 12, the Native CDFI Network (NCN) submitted formal comment letters to federal agencies sharing and advancing the consensus priorities of Native CDFIs and key national partners on two key policy and funding issues: (1) the Native American CDFI Assistance Program (NACA Program) Financial Assistance (FA) and Technical...
Read MoreNCN Live: Input Needed on CDFI/NACA FY 2023-2025 Financial Assistance and Technical Assistance Applications
On May 2nd at 2 p.m. ET, NCN hosts Treasury’s Deputy Assistant Secretary for Community Economic Development (OCED) Noel Andrés Poyo and Lisa Wagner of Bluestem Consulting. Part I: Noel Poyo will share information about Treasury’s work related to Native CDFIs and Native communities. He will then remain on the...
Read MoreMore Than 60 Native CDFIs, Prominent National Organizations Sign on to NCN Letter Requesting $50 Million for NACA Program
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) sent a letter to Congressional leadership requesting a $50 million appropriation for the CDFI Fund’s Native American CDFI Assistance (NACA) Program for FY 2024. Featuring a total of 65 organizational co-signatories, the letter requests this increased funding amount for FY 2024 based on the considerable...
Read MoreTribes Playing Key Role in Global Solar Buildout, Experts Tell Native CDFIs
Native people already are playing key roles in helping to reduce carbon emissions while building their own energy sovereignty, but there is more work to be done, solar experts told Native CDFI leaders during an April 18 solar energy webinar. “We all know the needs are immense,” said Christian Weaver,...
Read MoreNCN Invites Native CDFIs and Other Key Stakeholder Organizations to Join Letter Requesting $50 Million from Congress for NACA Program for FY 2024
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) invites all Native CDFIs and other key Indian Country stakeholder organizations to join its letter formally requesting that Congress appropriate $50 million for the Native American CDFI Assistance Program for Fiscal Year 2024. NCN is requested this increased funding amount for FY 2024 based on the...
Read MoreNCN News for April 17, 2023
Native CDFIs Receive $47.5 Million Capital Infusion Through CDFI Fund’s Equitable Recovery Program Last week, the Department of the Treasury’s CDFI Fund announced awards totaling $1.7 billion to more than 600 Treasury-certified CDFIs through its Equitable Recovery Program (ERP), the largest grant program in the agency’s history. The long-awaited announcement...
Read MoreNCN News for April 3
NCN’s CEO Attends NCRC Just Economy Conference Native CDFI Network’s CEO Pete Upton attended National Community Reinvestment Coalition’s 2023 Just Economy Conference. Upton participated in a panel that explored a variety of investment and grant opportunities and highlighted efforts to build wealth in Indian Country. With banks initiating investments in Indian Country, Native...
Read MoreNCN’s CEO Attends Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Convening
Native CDFI Network's CEO Pete Upton participated in a roundtable meeting on March 21, 2023 hosted by JP Morgan Chase & Co. in Washington, D.C.
Read MoreCalling All Native CDFIs: Please Complete Two Short Surveys Sharing Your Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Needs!
As the largest national network of Native CDFIs, the Native CDFI Network is doing its part to ensure that Indian Country and specifically Native CDFIs receive their fair share of the significant funding available through the Inflation Reduction Act and its Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF), which provides Native CDFIs...
Read MoreNCN Calls on Congress to Increase Funding for HUD Section 4 Program and Establish Set-aside for Native Communities
In a letter to Congress, the Native CDFI Network, National American Indian Housing Council, and Sovereign Council of Hawaiian Homestead Associations is calling on legislators to strengthen the HUD Section 4 Capacity Building for Community Development and Affordable Housing (Section 4) Program for Indian Country in two critical ways.
Read MoreRegistrations are now open for the 2023 NCN Institute Training Series!
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.
Read MoreNCN’s CEO/Chairman Provides a Recap of the CDFI Fund NMTC Program Native Initiative Training Technical Workshop
NCN CEO and Chairman Pete Upton travelled to Phoenix, AZ to attend a workshop on the CDFI Fund NMTC Program Native Initiative. This workshop was hosted by Big Water Consulting.
Read MoreNCN Live Recap: Building Sustainable Native Communities – Native CDFI & Tribal Collaboration
Leaders of two key Native American financial organizations met to discuss collaboration and shared goals in pursuit of economic development across Indian Country during the Feb. 23 episode of “NCN Live."
Read MoreNCN Live: The Native CDFI Network welcomes you to join a new series of conversations!
"NCN Live" is a new series of conversations with industry experts and policymakers designed to expand the power of Native CDFIs to grow economic opportunity for Native peoples.
Read MoreNCN Releases Comprehensive Survey Results Documenting Likely Impacts of Proposed CDFI Certification Changes
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) released the results of its comprehensive survey documenting the likely impacts the CDFI Fund’s proposed changes to the CDFI Certification Application and related regulations will have on Native CDFIs. More than 50 Native CDFI chief executives responded to the survey.
Read MoreCooperative Agreement between NCN and USDA, Office of Tribal Relations will Empower Native CDFIs to Access Rural Development Programs
In September 2022, USDA’s Office of Tribal Relations and USDA Rural Development entered into a 2-year cooperative agreement with the Native CDFI Network to build an electronic resource toolkit (NCN e-toolkit) to promote awareness of and increase access to Rural Development programs that support economic development in Indian Country.
Read MoreNCN Calls on All Native CDFIs to Submit Comments on the Proposed CDFI Certification Changes to the ACR and CTLR
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) strongly encourages all Native CDFIs and other key Indian Country stakeholder organizations to submit comments on the CDFI Fund’s proposed Annual Certification and Data Collection Report Form and the abbreviated Transaction Level Report (ACR/CTLR) as part of its proposed CDFI Certification overhaul.
Read MoreNCN’s CEO, Pete Upton, Reports on Access to Capital in Indian Country: How much? What kind? What impact?
No one doubts the need for more affordable capital to deploy in Indian Country. Unfortunately, there is little data to answer the main questions — how much, what kind and what for — that go along with that need.
Read MoreNative CDFIs: Please Complete 10-Minute Comprehensive Survey on Impacts of Proposed Changes to CDFI Certification
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) needs to hear more from you about how the CDFI Fund's proposed changes to CDFI Certification will impact your Native CDFI.
Read MoreNCN’s 3rd Annual Policy & Capacity-Building Summit Summary
Tribal Business News summarizes Native CDFI Network's three day annual summit that took place in early December, 2022.
Read MoreSenator Elizabeth Warren Unveils Sweeping Plan To Address ‘Broken Promises’ To Tribes
On December 5, 2022, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Congressman Derek Kilmer (D-Wash.) unveiled the Honoring Promises to Native Nations Act, historic legislation to address chronic underfunding and barriers to sovereignty faced by Indian Country as a result of the federal government’s failures to meet its trust and treaty responsibilities.
Read MoreNative CDFI Network uses Federal Reserve data to highlight the impact of investing in Indian Country
For years the Federal Reserve System has partnered with NCN to drive policy change by gathering reliable data to support the benefits of investing into Native CDFIs.
Read MoreNCN Calls on Native CDFIs and Other Key Organizations to Submit Comments on the CDFI Certification Target Market Assessment Methodologies by December 19th Deadline
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) strongly encourages all Native CDFIs and other key Indian Country stakeholder organizations to submit comments on the CDFI Fund’s proposed pre-approved list of Target Market assessment methodologies (TMAMs) (which are a key feature of the Fund's proposed new CDFI Certification regulations) by the comment deadline...
Read MoreNCN is Among 29 Nonprofits Awarded by Northwest Area Foundation
Northwest Area Foundation grantmaking supports organizations within the region of eight states and 76 Native nations that are advancing long-overdue change in deep connection with the land they inhabit and communities they serve—Native Americans, communities of color, immigrants, refugees, and people in rural areas. They’re on a journey to build...
Read MoreInterior Department Announces New Partnerships and Offices to Leverage New Resources for Indian Country – New Partners Include Native CDFI Network & Oweesta Corporation
In opening remarks at the 2022 White House Tribal Nations Summit, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland announced a series of actions to support Tribally led conservation, education and economic development through a new Office of Strategic Partnerships. The Department also announced a new joint project between the Bureau of...
Read MoreImportant: Location Changed for Annual Policy and Capacity Building Summit on Dec. 6-8
Due to the overwhelming response and expected attendance, the sold out Annual Policy and Capacity Building Summit has been moved to the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill, Regency B – Ballroom Level 400 New Jersey Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20001. This will provide a much more comfortable and accommodating...
Read MoreNCN Webinar – FTC Resources on Consumer Protection Topics
On Thursday November 10th, 2022, NCN hosted a webinar with the FTC covering various consumer protection topics. You can watch the session in its entirety below:
Read MoreOpportunity to Comment on the New CDFI Certification Application
In October, the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) provided a preview of the revisions to the new CDFI Certification Application. The CDFI Fund published the preview in advance of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) releasing the updated application for a final round of public comment.
Read MoreNCN Needs Your Help to Get the Native American Rural Homeownership Improvement Act Passed by Congress!
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) encourages all Native CDFI and tribal leaders to contact their U.S. Congressional representatives to gain their support as co-sponsors of the Native American Rural Homeownership Improvement Act of 2021 (S. 2092/H.R. 6331). This critical legislation is gaining momentum in both the House and Senate, and...
Read MoreNCN Partners with BMO Harris to Launch U.S. Native-owned Business Program
NCN has partnered with BMO Harris Bank to launch BMO for Native-owned Businesses as part of its five-year, $5 billion BMO EMpower initiative aimed at supporting an inclusive economic recovery for minority businesses, communities and families through lending, investing, giving and engagement in local communities.
Read MoreEconomic Equity for Native Communities Begins with a Seat at the Table
On October 3-4, 2022, Native communities and Native CDFIs were represented at two high-profile federal events in Washington, D.C.: a Working Session of the Biden Administration’s Economic Opportunity Coalition and the U.S. Department of Treasury’s annual Freedman’s Bank Forum.
Read MoreNCN Hosts a Webinar with the Federal Trade Commission
Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) attorneys Joannie Wei and Matt Schiltz will present on trending issues related to scams and other common consumer protection topics.
Read MoreNCN Interim CEO/Chairman and National Policy Chair Attend the Clinton Global Initiative
On September 19-20, 2022, NCN Interim CEO and Board Chair Pete Upton and National Policy Chair Robin Danner joined other global and emerging leaders in New York City to take action and address the world's most pressing challenges.
Read MoreCalendar Reminder: NCN Annual Policy and Capacity Building Summit – December 6-8, 2022
Native CDFI leaders, staff, and other interested stakeholders are encouraged to save December 6-8, 2022 on their calendars to attend the Native CDFI Network’s 2022 Annual Policy and Capacity Building Summit in Washington, D.C. The Summit will be held at the National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) Conference Center near Capitol Hill —...
Read MoreNCN Interim CEO Pete Upton to be Featured on “The State of Native Housing” Webinar
Join the National Housing Conference for a webinar on The State of Native Housing: Programs, Policy, and Practices on Tribal Lands on Thursday, September 29, 2022 from 1:30 to 3:00 P.M. ET. NCN's Interim CEO, Pete Upton, will be a panel speaker during the webinar!
Read MoreNCN “Difference Makers” Interview Series: Jeff Tickle and Mary Miner
Last week, the Native CDFI Network released its latest edition of “Native CDFIs: Difference Makers for Indian Country,” an interview with Jeff Tickle, who serves as General Manager of Cook Inlet Lending Center, Inc. (CILC) in Anchorage, Alaska. Formerly known as NaQenq’a, CILC is a federally certified Native CDFI that was created in 2001 as...
Read MoreWebinar: CDFI Fund Issues Supplemental FAQs that Amend Equitable Recovery Program Guidelines
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) at the Department of Treasury issued a Supplemental FAQs that amends the geographic eligibility guidelines for the FY 2022 Equitable Recovery Program (ERP) to include federally designated tribal service counties and service areas as “eligible Native areas” for the purposes of ERP (for the full...
Read MoreNCN News for the Week of August 15
TACTIX: Free Online Training Program for Native Entrepreneurs! Apply Today! Register by Wednesday, August 17 for the Next TACTIX Training Cohort The Sequoyah Fund is proud to announce that their fifth TACTIX cohort will begin in September. TACTIX is a virtual course which provides Native entrepreneurs with tools to enhance their digital...
Read MoreNCN News for the Week of August 8
In early May, the three agencies tasked with regulating banking institutions' compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) jointly released their much-anticipated Interagency CRA Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPR) designed to strengthen and modernized the regulations governing the Act.
Read MoreBreaking News: Your input needed on the CDFI Equitable Recovery Program (ERP) eligibility requirements.
On June 23, 2022, the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) announced the opening of the FY 2022 CDFI Equitable Recovery Program (ERP) round with the public release of a Notice of Funds Availability (NOFA). The NOFA set forth the deadline for submitting the FY 2022 CDFI ERP Application...
Read MoreNCN News for the Week of August 1
U.S. Senate Announces Creation of Community Development Finance Caucus Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Mike Crapo (R-ID) announced the creation of the Senate Community Development Finance Caucus (CDFC), a bipartisan caucus dedicated to supporting the missions of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) to...
Read MoreBreaking News: Save the Date (August 10) for Conference Call for CDFIs in an ACR-Related Cure Period
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) is holding an informational conference call for those Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) that are currently in a Certification cure period related to the submission of a 2021 or 2022 Annual Certification and Data Collection Report (ACR). The CDFI Fund recently announced that on...
Read MoreNCN News for the Week of July 25
Native CDFI Leaders’ Discussion: The Community Reinvestment Act NPR TODAY, July 25, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. EDT Today, the Native CDFI Network (NCN) will convene Native CDFI leaders from across the country to discuss the Interagency CRA Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPR) for the Community Reinvestment Act. This important...
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar Showcasing the Success of the Section 502 Home Loan Demonstration Project
On Thursday, July 21, 2022, NCN hosted U.S. Representative Sharice Davids and USDA-Rural Development Under Secretary Xochitl Torres Small, along with Native CDFI leaders from the South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition that included Tawney Brunsch, Joanna Donohoe, Stephanie Provost, and Lakota Vogel, in a conversation about Section 502 and the home loan demonstration project. Roundtable guests shared...
Read MoreNCN News for the Week of July 18
NCN Webinar: Growing the Success of the Section 502 Home Loan Demonstration Project Thursday, July 21, 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. EDT In this Thursday’s NCN webinar, U.S. Representative Sharice Davids and USDA-Rural Development Under Secretary Xochitl Torres Small will share with attendees about the highly successful demonstration project for the USDA Section 502 Home Loan Program,...
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar Highlighting Details of the CDFI Equitable Recovery Program (ERP)
On Thursday, July 14, 2022, NCN hosted CDFI Fund Senior Advisor Daniel Aiello who provided an overview of the CDFI Equitable Recovery Program (CDFI ERP). The FY 2022 funding round recently opened for this program, which will provide approximately $1.73 billion in awards to Treasury-certified CDFIs to (1) expand lending, grant making and investment activities...
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar on the SBA Community Advantage Program
NCN hosted an information session on Monday, June 27th for Native CDFIs to help answer any questions about the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) updated Community Advantage program, Jackson Brossy, SBA Assistant Administrator for Native American Affairs, and Veronica Pugin, SBA Senior Advisor Office of Capital Access shared information about the...
Read MoreNational Coalition of Native Organizations to Host Sessions on Community Reinvestment Act
Throughout the month of July, a national coalition of Native organizations including Native CDFI Network) in conjunction with the Center for Indian Country Development (CICD), will host a series of virtual sessions on how the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPR) could more effectively address the investment...
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar on the Native American Rural Homeownership Improvement Act of 2021 (S. 2092)
On Thursday, June 23, 2022, NCN hosted an action-focused webinar regarding the Native American Rural Homeownership Improvement Act of 2021 (S. 2092) with examples of how it could strengthen the USDA Section 502 Home Loan Program. Panelists included Lakota Vogel, ED of Four Bands Community Fund in South Dakota who...
Read MoreNative CDFI Network Congratulates Chief Lynn Malerba for Her Historic Appointment as Treasurer of the United States
The Native CDFI Network (NCN) applauds this week’s historic appointment of Chief Lynn Malerba of the Mohegan Tribe by President Biden as Treasurer of the United States. Malerba is the first Native person to be selected for this top federal post. Among her many important functions, Treasurer Malerba will oversee the newly...
Read MoreNCN News for the Week of June 23
Thursday, June 23 NCN Webinar: The Native American Rural Homeownership Improvement Act: Enhancing the USDA Section 502 Home Loan Program Native CDFI leaders, staff, and key stakeholders are invited to participate in this important webinar this Thursday, June 23 at 2:00 p.m. EDT to learn more about the Native American Rural Homeownership...
Read MoreNCN News for the Week of June 13
NCN WEBINAR with Federal Agencies This Thursday, June 16: “Modernizing the Community Reinvestment Act: The NPR’s Implications for Indian Country and Native CDFIs” This Thursday, June 16 at 2:00 p.m. EDT, NCN will host a special two-hour webinar featuring representatives from the federal agencies tasked with regulating lending institutions’ compliance with the Community...
Read MoreNCN News for the Week of June 6
Register for the June 16 NCN Webinar … “Modernizing the Community Reinvestment Act: The NPR’s Implications for Indian Country and Native CDFIs” On Thursday, June 16 at 2:00 p.m. EDT, NCN will host a special two-hour webinar featuring representatives from the federal agencies tasked with regulating lending institutions’ compliance with...
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar Featuring Initiate: A Blended Learning Approach to Small Business Technical Assistance by Northern Initiatives
On Thursday, May 19, 2022, NCN hosted Chris Wendel, Program Manager of Initiate, Northern Initiatives’ online portal of small business resources, and Jessa Armstrong, Customer Success Manager of Northern Initiatives. Initiate is an online collection of best practice business resources. With its vetted videos, resources, tools, and templates, Initiate helps...
Read MoreBreaking News: CDFI Fund Opens Application Period for Small Dollar Loan Program Funding
CDFI Fund Opens Application Period for Small Dollar Loan Program Funding – Native CDFIs Encouraged to Apply! Up to $11.1 Million Available for Loan Loss Reserves and Technical Assistance WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) opened the fiscal year (FY)...
Read MoreNCN This Week: May 16, 2022
On Wednesday, May 11, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland released Volume 1 of the investigative report called for as part of the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative, a comprehensive effort to address the troubled legacy of
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar to Discuss CDFI Fund’s Small Dollar Loan Program
On Friday, May 13, 2022, NCN hosted Small Dollar Loan (SDL) Program Manager, Tanya McInnis, and SDL Senior Manager and Program Analyst, Julie Sandler, along with Sequoyah Fund Executive Director Russ Seagle (SDL Program participant). The Program, which provides grants for Loan Loss Reserves and Technical Assistance to enable Certified CDFIs to...
Read MoreNCN This Week: May 9, 2022
Join SDL Program Manager Tanya McInnis and Sequoyah Fund Executive Director Russ Seagle as they share about the SDL Program. The Program, which was created to encourage federally certified CDFIs to establish and maintain small-dollar loan programs and provide alternatives to
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar featuring Russ Seagle
On Friday, April 29, 2022, NCN hosted Russ Seagle, Executive Director of The Sequoyah Fund, Inc., located in Cherokee, NC. Seagle shared information about Tactix, a new mobile app and online learning community that offers a space for small business owners to access real-world business education and expand their network...
Read MoreNCN to Host Webinar Featuring Russ Seagle
Russ Seagle is the Executive Director of The Sequoyah Fund, Inc., located in Cherokee, NC. The Sequoyah Fund offers commercial loans, training, consulting, and coaching to small businesses located on the Qualla Boundary and the seven westernmost counties of North Carolina.
Read MoreU.S. Treasury Department Extends SSBCI Application Deadlines
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of the Treasury is extending the deadline for Tribal governments to initiate and submit their complete SSBCI Capital Program application to September 1, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) and the deadline to submit an application for the SSBCI Technical Assistance (TA) Grant Program to...
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar to Discuss SSBCI Programs
On Wednesday April 13, 2022, Native CDFI Network (NCN) hosted Pilar Thomas, Jeff Bowman, and Sanford Livingston to discuss the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). The webinar was co-sponsored by Oweesta, the Sovereign Council of Hawaiian Homestead Associations and Clearinghouse CDFI. Jeff Bowman, President and CEO of Bay Bank...
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar featuring the U.S. Department of the Treasury
On Friday, April 8, 2022, NCN hosted James Colombe, Policy Advisor for the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Colombe discussed the implementation of the State Small Business Credit Initiative program in Indian Country. He shared updates about the program and fielded questions from attendees regarding its implementation and impact on...
Read MoreNCN This Week: April 5, 2022
In Case You Missed It: NCN’s 2022 Policy Priorities The Native CDFI Network recently released its Policy Priorities for 2022. The NCN Board of Directors and Policy Committee developed this comprehensive set of priorities at NCN’s Mid-Winter Policy Round Table event in Washington, D.C. in February. Designed to strengthen the policies and expand the resources supporting Native CDFIs across the country, these priorities include calling on...
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar featuring Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of the Interior
On Friday, April 1, 2022, NCN hosted Kathryn Isom-Clause, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior. Isom-Clause discussed Indian Affairs’ overarching priorities to support tribal economy building and provided updates on key DOI/BIA programmatic initiatives and grant opportunities. She also outlined the Indian Business...
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar featuring CDFI Fund Representatives
On Friday, March 25, 2022, NCN hosted CDFI Fund representatives Jodie Harris and Michelle Dickens provide key updates about the CDFI Fund’s Native American CDFI Assistance (NACA) Program, the increased NACA funding for Fiscal Year 2022, the recently authorized Minority Lending Program, proposed changes to the federal certification process for...
Read MoreBreaking News: Administration Announces Plan to Address Home Valuation Bias
Vice President Kamala Harris Announces Release of Plan During White House Event with Secretary Marcia L. Fudge, White House Domestic Policy Advisor Susan Rice, and Americans Impacted by Bias in the Appraisal Process On June 1, 2021—the centennial of the Tulsa Race Massacre—President Biden announced the creation of the Interagency...
Read MoreNCN Hosts Webinar featuring Center for Indian Country Development
On Friday, March 4, 2022, NCN hosted Casey Lozar from the Center for Indian Country Development. CICD is currently working to deepen – through data – our understanding of the state and progress of tribal economies across Indian Country and how that should inform policy solutions at the tribal, federal,...
Read MoreNCN Hosts USDA Webinar Feb 24th: Building A Community Starts At Home
On Thursday, February 24th, 2022, Native CDFI Network hosted David J. Corwin, Deputy Director of Lender and Partner Activities for the USDA Rural Development Single Family Guaranteed Program, for an informational meeting. During this presentation, David discussed using the Section 502 USDA Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program to help...
Read MoreNCN hosts National Community Reinvestment Coalition Webinar on January 27th
Native CDFI hosted a webinar with the National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) on January 27th. NCRC guest speakers included Juan Leyton, Director of Organizing, Greg Wilson, Senior Organizer, and Catherine Petrusz, CRA Coordinator. NCRC and its member organizations work to create opportunities for people to build wealth. They are advocates...
Read MoreWebinar Series focused on NACA FA Program hosted by NCN
On Thursday, January 6th, Native CDFI Network hosted a webinar series focused on The CDFI Fund’s Native American CDFI Technical Assistance (NACA FA) Program. With the NACA FA having numerous moving parts, this session focused on making all of the features cohesive to form a robust application as well as...
Read MoreSSBCI Programs Webinar Session 2
Native CDFI Network hosted part 2 of its CDFI Participation Models presentation. Sovereign Council of Hawaiian Homestead Associations, and Clearinghouse CDFI partnered to co-host the second webinar for Tribal Nations and Native CDFIs on accessing the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Program. Legal expert, Pilar Thomas presented SSBCI key...
Read MoreBuilding Capacity Webinar NACA TA Session held on Jan 5
On Wednesday, January 5th, Native CDFI Network hosted a webinar series focused on The CDFI Fund’s Native American CDFI Technical Assistance (NACA TA) Program. This session included preparing for the NACA TA, its components, strategies to write a successful NACA TA, common pitfalls, and post-award compliance. Caleb Selby, the owner...
Read MoreNCN hosts SSBCI CDFI Participation Model discussion Jan. 4th
On Tuesday, January 4th, Native CDFI Network (NCN), Oweesta, Sovereign Council of Hawaiian Homestead Associations, and Clearinghouse CDFI partnered to co-host two webinars for Tribal Nations and Native CDFIs on accessing the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Program. Legal expert, Pilar Thomas, presented SSBCI key program updates, the summary...
Read MoreNCN Hosts 2nd SSBCI Round Table Session on December 13th
On Monday, December 13th, 2021, the second SSBCI roundtable discussion took place between tribal leaders, Native CDFIs, and the U.S. Treasury. This event was held virtually with the purpose of continuing the conversation that initially started at the first SSBCI roundtable session on Monday, December 6th, 2021. The Native CDFI...
Read MoreNCN Hosts Virtual SSBCI Round Table Discussion with U.S. Treasury
Washington, DC – On Monday, December 6, 2021, the first of hopefully many roundtable discussions took place between tribal leaders, Native CDFIs, and the U.S. Treasury. This event was held virtually to answer questions and clarify potential investment models, including Native CDFI partners, to support Native entrepreneurs by leveraging SSBCI...
Read MoreNCN Joins Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Roundtable
Washington, DC – On October 20, 2021, NCN Board Chair Pete Upton joined the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Roundtable titled, “Investing in Economic Sovereignty: Leveraging Federal Financing for New and Sustained Development in Native Communities.” Upton highlighted some of the challenges and opportunities facing Native CDFIs across the country...
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Native CDFI Network Annual Policy & Capacity Summit Kicks Off Next Week
WASHINGTON — The Native CDFI Network (NCN) will kick off its annual Policy & Capacity Building Summit next week with an array of high-profile speakers including members of Congress, Biden administration officials, and former President Bill Clinton. The annual summit, which will be held virtually this year, runs from 3 p.m....
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Native CDFI Network Statement on New Market Tax Credit Allocations
For Immediate Release September 3, 2021 WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund yesterday announced $5 billion in New Market Tax Credit (NMTC) allocations to 100 community development entities (CDEs) in 34 states. The allocations include $30 million in NMTCs awarded to Alaska Growth Capital...
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Native CDFI Network Celebrates Natalie Charley’s Service to the Board and Welcomes Dave Tovey
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Native CDFI Network (NCN) celebrated and acknowledged Natalie Charley’s service to the NCN as a Board Director and accepted her resignation as her career progresses. NCN also welcomed Dave Tovey, the Executive Director of the Nixyaawii Community Financial Services, and a member of the Confederated...
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NCN testifies before House Financial Services Committee
Last week, NCN Executive Director, Jackson Brossy testified before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on the importance of Native CDFIs as part of the response to increase homeownership in Native communities. Brossy called on Congress to fully fund the Native American CDFI Assistance (NACA) program at Treasury, work with Native...
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Native Community Development Financial Institutions Unveil Report Detailing Economic Steps Toward Pandemic Recovery
Contact: Jackson Brossy Executive Director, Native CDFI Network [email protected] For Immediate Release July 21, 2021 LAS VEGAS—Today, the Native CDFI Network (NCN) released its impact report, “Native CDFI’s: Stepping up to Serve Indian Country through the Pandemic and Beyond.” In the early days of the pandemic last year, the organization...
Read MoreNCN Welcomes Russ Seagle and Congratulates Natalie Charley on Board Service!
Washington, DC (April 20, 2021) – Today, the Native CDFI Network announced the reappointment of one existing and the addition of one new proven Native CDFI executive to its Board of Directors: Natalie Charley, Executive Director of Taala Fund who will continue to represent the NCN Northwest Region; and Russ...
Read MoreAnnual Summit Sept. 14-15, 2021
Save the date! NCN Annual Policy & Capacity Building Summit will be held September 14-15, 2021. The event will take place in Washington, D.C. (but could go virtual, depending upon Covid-19 guidelines). Stay tuned for registration information. For information about this event, or sponsorship opportunities, please contact [email protected].
Read MoreGrowing Our Team – Programs Director
Join the NCN Team & Help Grow Native Economies. We have an opening for a Programs Director to be based remotely for at least the first quarter of 2021, then based in our Washington, D.C. office (dependent upon pandemic safety restrictions). Responsibilities include SBA program management and reporting as well...
Read MoreNominate Yourself & Peers for NCN Committees
Nominate yourself of a peer for the NCN Committees The Native CDFI Network seeks interested and committed members for our Data & Impact, Policy and Organizational Development Committees. Please use the link below to nominate you or a peer for the Committees. We look forward to hearing from you! Data...
Read MoreNative CDFI Network Hosts First Virtual Annual Policy & Capacity Building Summit
Photo: Native CDFI Network Annual Policy Summit Attendees 2019; Credit Sam Levitan PRESS RELEASE: Native CDFI Network Hosts First Virtual Annual Policy & Capacity Building Summit Register Here! Washington, D.C., August 25, 2020 – The Native CDFI Network (NCN) is hosting their Annual Policy & Capacity Building Summit virtually for...
Read MoreNCN Partners with Catholic Campaign for Human Development
For Immediate Release July 22, 2020 U.S. Bishops’ Subcommittee on The Catholic Campaign for Human Development Approves Strategic National Grant to provide vital support to Native CDFI Network Photo: Anti-Poverty Summit attendees, including several Native CDFI Network members including: Christopher Coburn of Mvskoke Loan Fund, Sean Winters of Chi Ishobak,...
Read MoreWeekly Friday Native CDFI Network Covid Webinars
Join the Native CDFI Network every Friday at 1pm ET for a web call. All Native CDFIs, federal partners, allies, and interested individuals are invited to join! More information and past web calls are here: COVID-19 Webinar Updates
Read MoreNCN is Hiring!
The Native CDFI Network seeks a motivated and qualified operations associate to join the Washington, DC office. Interviews will be conducted online and the associate will work from home, following Covid protocol. Here is a job description:Operations Associate Announcement
Read MoreSurvey Finds CDFIs Will Be harmed by COVID-19
Native CDFI Network survey finds vast majority of Native CDFIs will be harmed by Coronavirus-related economic downturn Washington, D.C. – The Native CDFI Network (NCN) announced the results of a survey of Native-serving community development financial institutions (CDFIs) today. The NCN survey found that the vast majority of Native CDFIs...
Read MoreNative CDFIs Hold Successful Summit in Washington
Washington, D.C. – This past week, the Native CDFI Network (NCN) hosted their 2019 Policy Summit at the National Indian Gaming Association building on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. The event was well attended by NCN members from the 65 Treasury certified CDFIs and 15 emerging CDFIs across the country....
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Native financial institutions to hold policy summit in Washington D.C. November 19-21
Native American-serving community development financial institutions to set policy priorities and then meet directly with Congress News Release Native CDFI Network The Native CDFI Network (NCN) will hold the first annual Policy Summit this week in Washington, D.C., on November 19-21. At the Summit, Native American-serving community development financial institutions...
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Native CDFI Network | NCN Policy Summit – November 19-21
The Native CDFI Network Board of Directors would like to invite you to the NCN Policy Summit in Washington, DC November 19-21. This summit is organized by the NCN Board of Directors to identify the annual policy priorities that advance the Native CDFI industry and promotes growth, prosperity, and economic...
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NCN UPDATED RFI for Accounting Services
Update Request for Information for Nonprofit Bookkeeping/Accounting Services The Native CDFI Network (NCN) is requesting information from firms to provide qualifications for providing bookkeeping and accounting services. Interested parties are invited to submit a proposal to the point of contact indicated below by Thursday, June 27, 2019. Background on Native CDFI...
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Meet Our New Executive Director!
March 20, 2019 We are excited to announce the selection of a new Executive Director, Jackson S. Brossy, a member of the Navajo Nation. “Jackson comes to us with strong organizational leadership and advocacy experience working in the non-profit, private, and tribal government sectors in Indian Country. We are glad...
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Policy Committee Formed to Increase Access to Capital in Indian Country
February 25, 2019 The Native CDFI Network has announced our 2019 Policy Committee, which will formalize our advocacy efforts and serve as a vehicle to empower our members in policy dialogues. The committee will be led by Robin Danner (Hawaiian), a member of the Network’s Board of Directors and also...
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Native CDFI Network Welcomes New Board Members
January 30, 2019 We are excited to announce two new board members, growing our governing body to nine seats. Our newly-elected members are Christopher Coburn (Muscogee Creek), the Chief Executive Officer of Mvskoke Loan Fund in Oklahoma, and Robin Danner (Hawaiian), the Chief Executive Officer of Homestead Community Development Corporation...
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Leadership Transition
January 4, 2019 Our Board of Directors has announced a leadership transition underway at the Native CDFI Network. Our founding Executive Director, Tanya Fiddler, will be pursuing new opportunities. We wish Tanya the best of luck in her new ventures and would like to thank her for her many contributions...
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Tanya Fiddler Discusses Economic Parity in Native Communities on Power Station
November 25, 2018 While in Washington DC for our Annual Conference and Advocacy Day, Native CDFI Network’s Executive Director, Tanya Fiddler, was interviewed by Power Station. During the interview Tanya expertly explained what Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) are, how they are transforming Native communities, and why they are...
Read MoreAnnual Conference & Advocacy Day
November 28-29, 2018 | Holiday Inn Capitol | Washington, D.C. Our annual conference serves as a platform to unite our Native voice as we advocate for access to capital and economic opportunity in our communities. This premier event brings together community development financial institutions, traditional lenders, nonprofit organizations, federal agencies,...
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Bad Debt is History, Thanks to Financial Coaching
As part of our campaign for National Financial Literacy Month, we have an inspirational story to share with your about a Pokagon Band citizen that was able to build an emergency savings fund, open a savings account, and pay down $7,000 in credit card debt – all in five months...
Read MoreMay
Children’s savings accounts help kids start life right!
Denise Red Owl is making the investment in future generations. Denise Red Owl enrolled her son and grandson in Lakota Funds’ Child Development Account Program. Presley and Shaun, even at ages 6 and 7, are in a position to learn more, save more, and earn more than their parents and...
Read MoreMay
Mother of 4 Makes Positive Financial Changes
A desperate mother of four applied for a loan from Citizen Potawatomi Community Development Corporation to fix her washing machine and lawn mower. She didn’t know it was a step that would change her financial future. She says, “They helped me put a plan together to get above water and...
Read MoreTaylor Lawrence Increases Credit Score by 81 Points
Here’s how she did it: 2 financial education courses, 2 small dollar consumer loans, and 2 debt consolidation loans. Taylor has been working with Four Bands Community Fund since 2012 in order to build her personal financial management knowledge and gain experience with the responsible use of credit. She is...
Read MoreMay
Savings Program Makes Homeownership Dream a Reality
As part of our campaign for National Financial Literacy Month, we have an amazing story to share with your about a Crow Creek tribal member that made her homeownership dream a reality by working with one of our Network members, Hunkpati Investments. Airryn Big Eagle says that before working...
Read MoreMay
Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Accesses EITC
In 2015, the Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Housing & Community Development Corporation trained 174 community members through their Financial Assets & Training Program. As a result, community members improved their skills in the topic areas of budgeting, banking, credit, insurance, home buying, home ownership, and accounting. In addition, KBOHCDC provided tax...
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Kindergarten Student Begins Saving for College
Abigail Haas, a student at Red Cloud School in Pine Ridge, South Dakota, opened a savings account through Lakota Funds’ Child Development Account Program, a unique matched savings program that focuses on building the family core. She and the rest of her family attend quarterly meetings where they participate in...
Read MoreMay
Aaron Runs After Utilizes Credit Builder Loan as Stepping Stone to Homeownership
Does your credit score really matter? Yes! Take it from Aaron Runs After, a client of Four Bands Community Fund on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation. He used his Credit Builder Loan as a stepping stone to homeownership. As a father of five, Aaron wished to make a permanent home...
Read MoreMay
Creative Financing Plants Seeds for Community Revitalization
The small town of Whiteclay, Nebraska lies just outside of the boundaries of the Pine Ridge Reservation in southwestern South Dakota. It is infamous for its liquor stores and some of the highest rates of alcohol sales per capita in the nation. With a population of 14 and average sales...
Read MoreMay
Young Native Intern Prepares 431 Tax Returns on Cheyenne River
During the 2014 tax season Jesse Carlson, a young entrepreneur and 2013 graduate from Dupree High School, staffed the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site hosted by Four Bands Community Fund in Eagle Butte, South Dakota. She and another Four Bands staff member prepared 431 tax returns, resulting in $1.1...
Read MoreMay
Bringing $ Back to Native Communities During Tax Time
Last tax season, members of the Great Plains Native Asset Building Coalition, a group of organizations and institutions that work to expand asset development strategies in low-income Native American communities, announced the collective impact of their free tax preparation sites, also known as Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites. The...
Read MoreMay
Credit Creates Opportunity
White Earth Investment Initiative’s Opportunity Auto low-income vehicle ownership program helped tribal member Rachael. Rachael had bad credit due to the expenses related to the illness and death of her small child, for which she was not financially prepared. Rachael needed a reliable vehicle to maintain her two jobs and...
Read MoreHow Access to Financial Tools is Impacting the Pine Ridge Reservation
The Lakota Federal Credit Union conducted a survey of its members last summer and found that there has been an increased uptake in use of financial tools by the people of the Pine Ridge Reservation. 31% of people surveyed say they now have a savings account for the first time...
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NCN Announces RFP for Leadership Program Mini Grants
NCN Leadership Program 2017 – 2018 Mini Grant Request for Proposals The Native CDFI Network (NCN) invites NCN Native CDFI Members to apply for a limited number of mini grants to support the development of core Native CDFI skills that include, but are not limited to, the following: Financial Management...
Read MoreNative CDFI Network Launches Campaign for National Financial Literacy Month
April 1, 2016 Native CDFIs have seen first-hand the positive impact increased financial literacy is creating for Native American individuals and families. Since April was officially proclaimed National Financial Literacy Month, it has been a time to share those stories and renew our commitment to empowering our Native American individuals,...
Read MoreIs Debt Always Bad?
November 4, 2015 From the highest offices of government to your personal bank account, debt is a big part of your daily life. Congress deals with the country’s debt by raising the government’s limit just before the deadline. But most people have no such power over how they pay off...
Read MoreNative CDFI Network Joins National Week of Action, Advocates for Economic Opportunity for Native Americans
January 25, 2016 The Native CDFI Network launched an intensive public awareness and advocacy campaign in conjunction with the Corporation for Enterprise Development’s (CFED’s) Assets & Opportunity National Week of Action. The goal of the campaign is to call attention to the issues of financial insecurity and inequality that Native...
Read MoreNative CDFI Network Announces First-Ever Executive Director
October 5, 2015 The Native CDFI Network, a national association of Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) that work to increase access to capital in Native communities, is excited to announce a major developmental milestone in the organization’s continued growth. Tanya Fiddler (Cheyenne River Sioux) has been hired to lead...
Read MorePeer Learning & Events Committee Meeting
December 3, 2015; 2:00pm – 3:00pm Mountain Time The Peer Learning & Events Committee meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at 2pm Mountain Time via conference call. This committee is responsible for planning and delivering the Network’s bimonthly webinars and annual member gathering, and facilitates peer...
Read MoreWebinar: Making the Most of Your Network Membership
December 17, 2015; 2:00pm – 3:30pm Mountain Time Becoming a member of the Native CDFI Network comes with several benefits. Are you taking advantage of all of them? Attend this webinar to find out how to leverage your Native CDFI Network membership to learn from other members, access resources, and...
Read MoreWebinar: Successful Native CDFI Policy Strategies
October 29, 2015; 2:00pm-3:30pm Mountain Time This webinar will open with an introduction of the Native CDFI Network’s new Executive Director, Tanya Fiddler. This will be an opportunity for our members and partners to get to know Tanya, and hear about her vision and goals for the Network. Following that,...
Read MoreStrengthening the Role of Native CDFIs
January 30, 2015 The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis’ Community Dividend asks Gerald Sherman, interim CEO of the Native Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Network, for his insights on the past, present, and future of the Native CDFI sector. Read the article.
Read MoreNative CDFI Network Spends Week in Washington DC to Advocate for Native Community and Economic Development
March 6, 2013 For the second year in a row, the Native CDFI Network, a network created to unify and strengthen Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs), traveled to Washington DC to advance policy priorities that foster systemic and sustainable Native community and economic development. This year’s Native CDFI Network...
Read MoreTanya Fiddler Takes a Seat on Treasury’s Community Development Advisory Board
December 27, 2012 Following an appointment by President Obama earlier this month, Tanya Fiddler (Cheyenne River Lakota Nation), was officially welcomed onto the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Community Development Advisory Board on December 17, 2012. The purpose of the Advisory Board is to advise the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI)...
Read MoreNative CDFI Network Seats First Board of Directors
October 16, 2012 On October 15, 2012, the Native CDFI Network, a national coalition dedicated to uniting Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and advancing policy priorities that support economic development in Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities, seated its first Board of Directors during its 4th Annual...
Read MoreNative American Financial Institutions Meet with Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to Express Concerns About Payday Lending Products
May 15, 2012 On May 2, 2012 a group of Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and nonprofits met with staff at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to advocate for responsible and fair lending products in Native American communities. The Native organizations provided examples to demonstrate the negative impact of...
Read MoreNative CDFI Network Gains Momentum, Joins National Rural Assembly Steering Committee
June 27, 2011 On June 17, 2011, the Native CDFI Network was welcomed onto the National Rural Assembly Steering Committee, a collaboration of organizations that works to bring tribal and non-tribal constituencies into a conversation about the future of rural America. In this position, the Native CDFI Network will provide...
Read MoreNative CDFI Network Takes Shape, Unites Native CDFIs to Strengthen Economic Development in Indian Country
December 6, 2010 The Native CDFI Network, founded in 2009 to unite Native CDFIs and advance policy priorities important in Native communities, has formed an official steering committee comprised of 13 experienced professionals in the Native community and economic development field to lead the organization through its next phase of...
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