CDFI Fund to Pause Acceptance of New Community Development Entity Certification Applications
Beginning June 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) will pause acceptance of new applications for certification as a Community Development Entity (CDE).
Read MoreBank of the Pacific Supports TAALA Fund’s Mission of Financial Inclusion
Founded in 2010, the TAALA Fund has gained support from a number of organizations, including Bank of the Pacific.
Read MoreUpcoming CDFI Certification Deadline and Service Request Cutoff
To avoid delays or loss of Certification, organizations must act now to prepare their submissions and resolve outstanding issues.
Read MoreRegister Now for NeighborWorks Training Institute
The NeighborWorks America Training Institute (NTI) is heading to New Orleans this summer! From August 19–23, 2025, housing, community development, and lending professionals from across the country will gather for a week of top-tier training and networking.
Read MoreMarketplace Highlights Threats to CDFI Funding and the Critical Role of Community Lenders
In a recent Marketplace article and podcast episode, national leaders spoke out about the potential impacts of proposed changes to the CDFI Fund and the vital role Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) play in underserved communities.
Read MoreCDFI Certification Application “Hot Topics” Webinar
The CDFI Fund’s monthly Certification webinars, which are intended to serve as a forum for potential CDFI Certification Applicants, Certified CDFIs, and other CDFI Certification stakeholders to ask questions and discuss CDFI Certification and the CDFI Certification process, have been scheduled for calendar year 2025.
Read MoreThe Critical Role of the ACR: What CDFIs Need to Know
To maintain their status as a certified CDFI, and continue delivering on their mission, CDFIs must submit the Annual Certification and Data Collection Report (ACR) on an annual basis.
Read MoreNACA Program Confirmed as Statutory Function of the CDFI Fund
According to the March 21, 2025, report submitted to the Office of Management and Budget, the Native American CDFI Assistance (NACA) Program is confirmed as a statutory program of the CDFI Fund.
Read MoreMake an Impact: Become a Board Member at Credit Builders Alliance or CBA Fund
The Credit Builders Alliance is currently seeking dedicated and visionary individuals to join its Board of Directors.
Read MoreU.S. Department of Treasury Affirms Support for CDFI Fund in Message Shared with White House
This afternoon, the Native CDFI Network (NCN) received communication from the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs within the Executive Office of the President that the U.S. Department of Treasury has affirmed its continuing support of the CDFI Fund in the wake of last Friday’s Executive Order (EO) by President...
Read MoreFederal Judge Blocks Trump Administration’s Attempt to Terminate Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Grants
U.S. District Judge Tonya Chutkan determined the government’s “vague and unsubstantiated assertions of fraud are insufficient” justification for terminating the grants made to the awarded entities.
Read MoreSenator Mark Warner Champions CDFIs in Senate Confirmation Hearings
This week, Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) took the opportunity during the confirmation hearings for the Secretaries of Treasury and Housing and Urban Development to repeatedly uplift the role and many positive impacts that community development financial institutions (CDFIs) make across the country, particularly in low-income and rural communities.
Read MoreApply Now for Climate United’s NEXT Program!
Climate United NEXT is a pre-development grant program helping underserved and low-income communities deploy the next generation of clean energy projects. Climate United will provide up to $30M in grant funding to support community-led projects that increase energy independence, reduce pollution, and save money.
Read More$7.2 Million in Grants Available to Nonprofit Organizations Addressing the Growing Challenge of Sustaining Homeownership
TD Charitable Foundation, the giving arm of TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank®, announced $7.2 million in available grants of $200,000 each through its 19th annual Housing for Everyone grant program.
Read MoreApply Now for Climate United’s NEXT Program!
Climate United NEXT is a pre-development grant program helping underserved and low-income communities deploy the next generation of clean energy projects.
Read MoreProtecting Approved Purchased/Referred Care Program Patients from Improper Bills
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Indian Health Service (IHS) remind you of your responsibilities to protect IHS-approved purchased/referred care (PRC) program patients from improper bills and collection on improper bills under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA), the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), and the...
Read MoreCDFI Fund Reminder: Annual Compliance, Certification and Reporting Obligations
This reminder is specifically for organizations with Award, Assistance and/or Allocation Agreements, as well as ACRs, which have an upcoming report(s) due by December 31, 2024.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Announces $3.72M in NACA Technical Assistance Awards for FY 2024
The CDFI Fund awarded a total of $3.72 million in NACA TA funding to a total of 10 Native entities from among 15 such applicants, a group that included the Native CDFI Network (NCN).
Read MoreCDFI Fund Releases Updated CDFI Certification FAQs and Webinars
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) has released a revised Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Certification Application Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document and recorded webinars.
Read MoreFree Introductory Solar Series for Community Lenders
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s Community Power Accelerator (CPA) team invites you to join a free three-part introductory solar series designed specifically for Community Lenders and Credit Unions.
Read More$10 Billion will Become Available in the Upcoming New Market Tax Credit Program Allocation Round
As previously announced, the next round of the New Markets Tax Credit Program (NMTC Program) will make $10 billion in Allocation Authority available, and the round will span calendar years (CYs) 2024 and 2025. The CDFI Fund is tentatively planning to open the CY 2024-2025 NMTC Program Allocation Application round this...
Read MoreHelp Improve What’s Known about Small Businesses
The Federal Reserve’s 2024 Small Business Credit Survey is now open, and Native CDFI Network is a partner on this effort. Owners and key financial decision makers of for-profit businesses, share your recent experiences about whether and how you use debt, what financial conditions you face, and more.
Read MoreRegister NOW for the CDFI Equitable Recovery Program Technical Assistance Workshop Nearest You
Join the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) for an engaging in-person compliance and reporting workshop on October 24 – 25, 2024, in Los Angeles, CA, designed for Community Development Financial Institutions Equitable Recovery Program (CDFI ERP) Recipients.
Read MoreReminder: Deadline Approaching for SF-425 Federal Financial Report Submissions
The required SF-425 Federal Financial Reports are due October 15, 2024.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Announces FY 2024 CDFI Program and NACA Program Financial Assistance Awards
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) today awarded 357 Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) with $408.2 million in Financial Assistance (FA) awards to provide financial services and products for low-income and underserved individuals and communities across America.
Read MoreThe U.S. Department of the Treasury Announces $5 Billion in New Markets Tax Credits
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) announced $5 billion in New Markets Tax Credits that will spur investment and economic growth in low-income urban and rural communities nationwide.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Advisory Board Appointments
NCN would like to congratulate Janie Hipp on her well-deserved appointment to the Community Development Advisory Board!
Read MoreCDFI Fund Releases Updated Guidance and New Deadline for Early Submission of the CDFI Certification Application
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) released a revised Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Certification Application Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document, Pre-Approved Target Market Assessment Methodology guidance, and an adjusted CDFI Certification Application timeline.
Read MoreWebinar: CDFI Fund’s Annual Certification and Data Collection Report (ACR)
The CDFI Fund’s quarterly Annual Certification and Data Collection Report (ACR) conference calls, which are intended to serve as a forum for Certified CDFIs and other ACR stakeholders to ask questions and discuss the ACR and its submission process, have been scheduled for calendar year 2024.
Read MoreUSDA Seeks Applications for Loans and Grants to Expand Markets for Rural Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
USDA is accepting applications for loans and grants to expand access to new and better markets for rural small business owners and entrepreneurs.
Read MoreLow Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) to Homeownership Toolkit Training
Gain comprehensive knowledge about the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program through this session.
Read MoreProfessional Development for Native Artists
The Native Artist Professional Development course is a value-based, hands-on learning experience to enhance artists’ business skills and prepare artists for their journeys as successful entrepreneurs.
Read MoreIn Remembrance of Cora Mae Haskell
It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt respect that we announce the passing of Cora Mae Haskell, a remarkable leader and cherished member of the Native CDFI community.
Read MoreCBA Fund Loan Capital and Grant Funding Opportunity for Native CDFIs
CBA Fund is providing loan capital, capacity building grants, and technical assistance to select nonprofits so they can offer small dollar consumer loans especially to people who have traditionally lacked access to safe and affordable capital.
Read MoreWebinar: New Compliance and Reporting Requirements for Native Business Owners
The U.S. Treasury Department officials are holding a virtual webinar on these new beneficial ownership reporting requirements, how to file, and how the law affects Tribal businesses.
Read MoreNotice of Funding Availability: Native CDFI Relending Demonstration Program
The Native CDFI Relending Demonstration program is designed to improve homeownership opportunities for Native American Tribes, Alaska Native Communities, and Native Hawaiian Communities in rural areas. The program provides mortgage lending capital to Native CDFIs through a 33-year loan at one percent interest, with a three-year payment deferral at loan...
Read MoreNeighborWorks America’s National Training Institute
NeighborWorks America’s National Training Institute is August 26-30, 2024 in Pittsburg, PA. Registration is now open until July 29th.
Read MoreAmeriCorps Intern Opportunity for Native CDFIs
Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), with support from Citi Foundation, that is building a more diverse CDFI workforce through a two-pronged human capital strategy to expose diverse candidates to the field of community finance.
Read MoreWhy are Native Homebuyers Ending Up With More Expensive Loans?
For Native people living in rural areas with scarce housing stock, manufactured units can be a practical homeownership choice. Financing these manufactured homes, though, can cost Native borrowers on reservations two times what it would cost a white borrower off reservation.
Read MoreInvesting From Within: Native CDFIs Help Their People Find Homes
Addressing the vast backlog of unmet Native homeownership interest requires tapping into more financial and technical resources. These enterprising local lenders are calling on their mainstream bank counterparts to help them meet the long-overlooked credit needs of 1.3 million Native people living in American Indian Areas.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Extends Submission Deadlines for Revised CDFI Certification Application
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) has extended the application deadlines for when currently Certified Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) must reapply for CDFI Certification using the revised version of the CDFI Certification Application.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Annual Compliance, Certification and Reporting Obligations
This reminder is specifically for organizations with Award, Assistance and/or Allocation Agreements, as well as ACRs, which have an upcoming report(s) due by June 30, 2024.
Read MoreAMIS Accessibility Update
Users accessing the U.S. Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) Awards Management Information System (AMIS) with unsupported or out-of-date web browsers, such as Internet Explorer, will no longer be able to access the system.
Read MoreFour Directions Development Corporation Announces Leadership Transition
The Board of Directors of Four Directions Development Corporation (FDDC) has unanimously voted to select Matthew Lewis, currently serving as FDDC’s Director of Operations, as its next Executive Director.
Read MoreTransaction Level Report Q&A Session
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) will be conducting a Question and Answer (Q&A) webinar session on the full-length Transaction Level Report (TLR) in the Awards Management Information System (AMIS)
Read MoreUpcoming Webinar: Expanding Financial Services for the Disability Community
The National Disability Finance Coalition (NDFC), in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF), is hosting a three-part webinar series for CDFIs to explore expanding their products and services into the disability community.
Read MoreAlaska Native and Native Hawaiian Entities – Elective Pay Overview Webinars
Join the U.S. Department of the Treasury to discuss how Alaska Native Entities and Native Hawaiian Entities may benefit from new Inflation Reduction Act opportunities for access to clean energy credits through Elective Pay and Transferability.
Read MoreUpcoming Webinar: Lending on Tribal Land
The South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition is hosting a webinar on best practices for offering a wide range of mortgage loan products, including conventional loans like Freddie Mac's HeritageOne, on tribal land throughout Indian Country.
Read MoreRegister Now for NeighborWorks America’s Virtual Training Institute
NeighborWorks America’s Virtual Training Institute is May 6-10, 2024. Registration is now open until May 3, 2024.
Read MoreFree Financial Coaching for Native Registrants
Oklahoma Native Assets Coalition, Inc. (ONAC) offers free financial coaching (by phone and teleconference) to American Indians and Alaska Natives, regardless of where they reside in the U.S.
Read MoreFostering Financial Inclusion by Ensuring Cultural Fit: The Case of the NCDFI Industry
In a new paper released by the Center for Indian Country Development (CICD), the lending approaches of Native CDFIs were analyzed. CICD unveils the core practices and modes of operation in the NCDFI industry.
Read MoreUpcoming Webinar: Introduction to the FSA Guaranteed Loan Program
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) Loan Program Team is hosting a webinar on Thursday, April 18 at 3:00 p.m. ET on the FSA Guaranteed Loan Program: A Vital resource for Family Farmers and Ranchers.
Read MoreSSBCI Investing in America Small Business Opportunity Program (SBOP) – Applicant Portal Now Open
The U.S. Department of the Treasury, State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) is pleased to announce that it is seeking applications from eligible applicants for grant funding under the new SSBCI Investing in America Small Business Opportunity Program (SBOP).
Read MoreCDFI Fund’s Advisory Board Meeting
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) is convening a meeting of the Community Development Advisory Board from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, April 11, 2024.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Title VI Compliance Worksheet Webinar
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) and Office of Civil Rights and Equal Employment Opportunity (OCRE) will conduct another live webinar to assist organizations in understanding the requirements of the CDFI Fund’s Title VI Compliance Worksheet.
Read MoreSSBCI SBOP Webinar: Opportunities for Small Business in the Investing in America Agenda
This webinar will feature representatives from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Department of Energy, the Department of Commerce, and other federal agencies, who will share what needs and opportunities they see for small and underserved businesses in the economic activity supported by their programs.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Appoints New Director
On March 11, 2024, it was announced that Pravina Raghavan is appointed the new Director of the CDFI Fund.
Read MoreCFPB Bans Excessive Credit Card Late Fees
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) finalized a rule today to cut excessive credit card late fees by closing a loophole exploited by large card issuers. The rule will curb fees that cost American families more than $14 billion a year.
Read MoreCICD Releases New Study on Native Entrepreneurs Credit-Access Challenges
The Center for Indian Country Development (CICD) of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis released a study on the challenges Native entrepreneurs face to access credit.
Read More2024 CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Application Period is Now Open
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) opened the fiscal year (FY) 2024 application period for the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program.
Read MoreUSDA Office of Tribal Relations Tribal Advisory Committee Meeting
The Office of Tribal Relations will hold the first meeting of the Tribal Advisory Committee on February 23, 2024.
Read MoreFree Native Green Lending Course for NCN Native CDFI Members
The Native CDFI Network, University of New Hampshire, and Inclusiv are partnering to bring you a green lending training course that is designed exclusively for Native-led and Native-serving community lenders.
Read MoreWebinar: CDFI Certification Changes to the ACR and TLR
The CDFI Fund will conduct a live webinar to walk organizations through the requirements of the revised ACR and TLR as part of the CDFI Fund’s revised Certification Application and policies.
Read MoreUpdate on Treasury’s Approach to Equitable Community Finance
The U.S. Department of the Treasury released an update on how Treasury’s community finance related efforts are supporting underserved communities throughout the country.
Read MoreCDFI Program and NACA Program Application Deadline and Upcoming Webinars
As a reminder for fiscal year (FY) 2024 Community Development Financial Institutions Program (CDFI Program) and Native American CDFI Assistance Program (NACA Program) applicants, the deadline for online submission of the SF-424 through Grants.gov for this year’s CDFI Program and NACA Program funding rounds is January 16, 2024 at 11:59 PM ET.
Read MoreNCN Coalition Partner Hosts Clean Energy Quest Webinar Series
The Alliance for Tribal Clean Energy is pleased to present the inaugural episode of the Clean Energy Quest Webinar Series. This is the first track entitled 'Tribal Utility Formation and Clean Energy Project Financing' with three sessions beginning this Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Reminder: Annual Compliance, Certification and Reporting Obligations
To maintain your organization’s CDFI Certification status, you must submit the Annual Certification and Data Collection Report (ACR). Additionally, to ensure compliance with your Award, Assistance and/or Allocation Agreement(s) you must complete and submit the annual report(s) specified in these agreement(s).
Read MoreNew Searchable Federal Funding Database for Native CDFIs
On Wednesday, the DOI and White House Council on Native American Affairs (WHCNAA) announced it would launch a new website called the Access to Capital Clearinghouse.
Read MoreTreasury Announces Second Round of SSBCI Funding
Officials from the U.S. Treasury announced more than $86 million in State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funding for two dozen tribal governments during the White House Tribal Nations Summit last week.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Opens FY 2024 CDFI Program and NACA Program Application Round
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) opened the fiscal year (FY) 2024 funding round for the Community Development Financial Institutions Program (CDFI Program) and Native American CDFI Assistance Program (NACA Program).
Read MoreCDFI Fund Releases Final Revised CDFI Certification Application
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) released a revised Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Certification Application.
Read MoreSBA Reports IncreasTed Lending to Native-Owned Small Businesses
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) lending to Native-owned companies has increased under the Biden administration, according to information the agency shared Friday with Tribal Business News.
Read MoreThe FY 2024 CDFI Program and NACA Program Application Round is Coming Soon
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) is tentatively planning to open the FY 2024 CDFI Program and NACA Program Application round later this fall. Now is a great time for organizations to begin preparing to apply for a CDFI Program or NACA Program award.
Read MoreSupporting Affordable Housing and Small Businesses for Native American Veterans in North and South Dakota
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency will co-host a webinar focused on supporting affordable housing and small businesses for Native American veterans in North and South Dakota.
Read MoreUpcoming Deadline: FY 2024 Small Dollar Loan Program Application
As a reminder, the deadline for online submission of the SF-424 through Grants.gov for fiscal year (FY) 2024 Small Dollar Loan Program (SDL Program) Applicants is November 20, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET).
Read MoreComing Soon – The FY 2024 CDFI Program and NACA Program Application Round
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) is tentatively planning to open the FY 2024 CDFI Program and NACA Program Application round later this fall. Now is a great time for organizations to begin preparing to apply for a CDFI Program or NACA Program award.
Read MoreNative CDFI Awards Recognize Two CDFIs for Promoting Economic Justice, Sovereignty in Indian Country
Two Native CDFIs — NACDC Financial Services and Hawaiian Lending & Investments (HLI) — were honored by Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) and Oweesta Corporation with the 2023 Native CDFI Awards for the lenders’ unique strategies to advance finance justice in tribal communities.
Read MorePresident Biden to Highlight Investments in Rural America
The Biden Administration announced that the President will travel to Minnesota to lead his Administration’s Investing in Rural America Event Series.
Read MoreFederal Agencies Release New Final Rule Governing the Community Reinvestment Act
Today, the Federal Reserve, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and Treasury’s Office of the Comptroller of the Currency released their long-awaited new Final Rule designed to modernize and enhance the federal government’s administration of the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The Final Rule takes effect on April 1, 2024.
Read MoreA Path to Increasing New Markets Tax Credit Investment in Native Communities
Last spring, the CDFI Fund launched the NMTC Native Initiative with the goal to increase New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) investments in NMTC Native Areas. Since the NMTC Program’s inception, the CDFI Fund has recorded investments totaling over $1.8 billion in Indian Country.
Read MoreUSDA Partners with Eight Native CDFIs to Expand Homeownership Opportunities
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Acting Under Secretary for Rural Development Roger Glendenning announced the Department is partnering with eight Native Community Development Financial Institutions (NCDFIs) to expand homeownership opportunities for Native Americans living on Tribal lands in eight states.
Read MoreNative CDFI Leech Lake Financial Services, Inc. Receives Social and Economic Development Strategies Grant from ANA
The Administration for Native Americans (ANA) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families has awarded $9 million to 32 Native American Tribes and Native organizations to help improve the social and economic well-beingin their communities.
Read MoreNCN Congratulates Fern Orie for CFPB Advisory Committee Appointment
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced the appointment of new members to the Consumer Advisory Board, Community Bank Advisory Council, Credit Union Advisory Council, and Academic Research Council.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Awards $70 Million to Banks that Increased Investments in Severely Distressed Communities
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) announced $70 million in awards to 184 FDIC-insured banks.
Read MoreNCN Applauds Native American Bank and Chickasaw Nation Community Development Endeavor LLC for Receiving NMTC Allocations from the Treasury Department
The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced $5 billion in New Markets Tax Credits that will spur investment and economic growth in low-income urban and rural communities nationwide.
Read MoreAdvancing Housing for Members of Native American Tribes
Join subject matter experts from Freddie Mac and Lakota Funds for an interactive discussion on HeritageOne – an innovative mortgage solution designed to meet the borrowing needs of members of federally recognized Native American tribes living in tribal areas.
Read MoreExploring Mortgage Options for Native Homebuyers
Freddie Mac recently published an article taking a closer look at some of the most prominent mortgage programs and products available to Native homebuyers.
Read MoreSSBCI Opportunities for CDFI Loan Funds
The U.S. Treasury has recently published a paper, State Small Business Credit Initiative: Opportunities for CDFI Loan Funds.
Read MoreNominate a Native CDFI Leader for the 2023 Ned Gramlich Award
Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) established the Ned Gramlich Lifetime Achievement Award for Responsible Finance in memory of former board member and Federal Reserve Board Governor, Ned Gramlich. The spirit of the award is to celebrate people of distinction who have produced a body of work that sets them apart within...
Read MoreCDFI Fund Implementing Civil Rights Act Compliance Reporting Requirements
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) is requiring all award applicants complete a Title VI Compliance Worksheet once annually with their applications, as well as their prospective sub-recipients that are not direct beneficiaries of federal financial assistance.
Read MoreFDIC Webinar: Access to Affordable Bank Accounts in North and South Dakota
On Thursday, August 24, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. ET, the FDIC will host a webinar to provide an overview of the FDIC 2021 Survey of Unbanked and Underbanked Households
Read MoreUSDA Launches Pilot Programs to Increase Affordable Homeownership Opportunities for People on Tribal Lands
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Acting Under Secretary Roger Glendenning announced that USDA is launching two pilot programs to increase affordable homeownership opportunities for people on Tribal lands.
Read MoreApplication Window is Open for the Rural Energy for America Technical Assistance Grant Program
The purpose of the USDA Rural Energy for America Technical Assistance Grant Program (REAP) is to enable applicants to provide technical assistance to Agricultural Producers and Rural Small Businesses applying to REAP, with priority for Applicants assisting distressed or disadvantaged communities and for Applicants pursuing projects using underutilized technologies or seeking grants...
Read MoreGreening Commercial Real Estate and Community Facilities in Low-Income and Disadvantaged Communities Webinar
In the Equitable Greenhouse Gas Reduction Webinar Series, presenters will address why and how to "green" community facilities and commercial real estate to deliver equitable greenhouse gas reduction and meaningful co-benefits in and for low-income and disadvantaged communities.
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 MoreCorrections Made to the Notice of Funding Availability for USDA 502 Native Community Development Financial Institution (NCDFI) Relending Demonstration Program FY 2023
Native CDFI housing lenders, we want to make sure you saw the notice of corrections to the USDA 502 Native Community Development Financial Institution (NCDFI) Relending Demonstration Program FY 2023.
Read MoreThe CDFI Fund’s Advisory Board Virtual Meeting has been Rescheduled
The meeting of the Community Development Advisory Board (the Advisory Board) originally scheduled for July 7, 2023, has been rescheduled for Monday, July 31, 2023, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM ET. This meeting will be conducted virtually.
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 MorePresident Joe Biden Releases a Statement on the Indian Child Welfare Act Ruling
On Thursday, June 15, 2023, the Supreme Court preserved the system that gives preference to Native American families in foster care and adoption proceedings of Native children.
Read MoreFreddie Mac Expands Affordable Financing for Homeownership in Native Communities
The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation — more commonly known as Freddie Mac — plans to launch a new mortgage product designed to support homeownership among Native Americans.
Read MoreLeech Lake Financial Services Provides an Innovative Lending Program for Their Borrowers
The Minneapolis Star Tribune released a recent article on the Leech Lake Financial Services Credit Builder program which was spearheaded by LLFS Executive Director, Rob Aitken.
Read MoreNative Community Development Financial Institution Relending Demonstration Program Webinar
On Tuesday, June 20 at 2:00 PM ET, the Single Family Housing Direct Division will be offering a webinar for Native Community Development Financial Institutions (NCDFI’s) to provide an overview and discussion of the application process outlined in the Native Community Development Financial Relending Demonstration Program-Notice of Funding Availability.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Financial Assistance & RRP TLR Webinar
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) will be conducting a Q&A webinar session on how to complete and submit Transaction Level Reports (TLRs) in the Awards Management Information System (AMIS).
Read MoreCredit Ready Meat and Poultry Lending Professional Training – Virtual Series
The USDA Credit Ready Meat and Poultry Lending Professional Training - Virtual Series is designed for individuals who work at community-based lending institutions (credit unions, CDFIs, and community banks) and other entities eligible for the Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program or the Food Supply Chain Guaranteed Loan Program who are interested in increasing...
Read MoreNative American Students Invited to Compete for Three Dreamcatcher $10,000 Scholarships
Native American undergraduate and graduate students who are from or studying in Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota and Kansas are invited to pitch their entrepreneurial dream, journey, or business idea.
Read MoreThe Federal Reserve Wants to Hear from You!
The Federal Reserve’s CDFI Survey aims to understand current challenges and opportunities for CDFIs nationwide.
Read MoreNOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY! Native Community Development Financial Relending Demonstration Program
The NCDFI Relending Demonstration Program is designed to increase homeownership opportunities for Native American Tribes, Alaska Native Communities, and Native Hawaiian Communities in rural areas.
Read MoreTribal Business News reports on HUD Section 4 Program that “has bypassed Indian Country”
In a recent letter written by the Native CDFI Network, National American Indian Housing Council, and the Sovereign Council of Hawaiian Homestead Associations, the three Native non-profits ask Congress for a boost in total funding to $50 million in the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Section 4 program, along with a 10%...
Read MoreBank of America “Driving Impact” Webinar – April 20, 2023
The Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Driving Impact Webinar Series gives non-profit leaders the power to drive impact in the community by connecting them to tools, resources, and expertise, and focusing on topics such as leadership development, non-profit sustainability, industry trends and innovative approaches to economic mobility.
Read MoreAn Update from the CDFI Fund on the 2023 ACR Reporting Round
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) has released updated information for Certified Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) regarding the 2023 reporting round for the Annual Certification and Data Collection Report (ACR).
Read MoreCDFI Fund Requests Public Comment on CDFI Program and NACA Program Applications
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund), U.S. Department of the Treasury, is soliciting comments on the Community Development Financial Institutions Program (CDFI Program) and the Native American CDFI Assistance Program (NACA Program) Financial Assistance (FA) and Technical Assistance (TA) Applications for the fiscal years (FYs) 2023-2025 funding rounds.
Read MoreNACDC Financial Services, Inc. Seeking Project Director for EDA Build Back Better Project
NACDCFS is a member of the Mountain | Plains Regional Native CDFI Coalition and recipient of funding from the US Economic Development Administration (EDA) Build Back Better Regional Challenge to support the innovation ecosystem of the region’s Indigenous Finance Industry. NACDC Financial Services is recruiting a Project Director to oversee...
Read MoreThe CDFI Fund Announces $194 Million in Financial Assistance Awards
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) awarded 252 Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) $194.1 million in Financial Assistance (FA) awards today.
Read MoreMessages from the CDFI Fund Director: A Farewell Resignation Notice plus Charting CDFI Certification and Program Funding in 2023
Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) Director Jodie Harris released a message yesterday regarding the CDFI Fund's plans for 2023.
Read MoreA Virtual Public Meeting of the CDFI Fund’s Advisory Board will be Held on February 28, 2023
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) is convening a meeting of the Community Development Advisory Board (the Advisory Board) from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, February 28, 2023.
Read MoreAsset Building in Native American Communities – Webinar
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is hosting a webinar on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 from 2:00 to 3:30 PM ET focused on saving and other asset building strategies in North and South Dakota Native American communities.
Read MoreFree Financial Coaching Available to Native Families
Oklahoma Native Assets Coalition, Inc. (ONAC) has been offering three types of free financial coaching to tribal citizens across the United States: 1) credit counseling, 2) homebuyer education, and 3) financial management (i.e. budgeting).
Read MoreAdditional Time Needed for CDFI Fund to Consider Robust Response to Recent Application Revisions
The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) will update its timeline for rolling out the new CDFI Certification Application and anticipates revising the version that was released for public comment in the Federal Register on November 4, 2022.
Read MoreCall for Proposals: CDFA Minority Loan Guarantee Program
The CDFA Minority Capital Loan Guarantee Program aims to increase access to capital for businesses in communities that have been historically excluded from opportunity.
Read MoreOweesta Corporation and Wells Fargo Announce a $1.5 Million Matching Equity Grant for Native CDFIs
Oweesta Corporation announced a continued collaboration with the Wells Fargo Foundation to provide seed funding and capacity building opportunities for emerging or small Native Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) through a two-year, $1.5 million grant.
Read MoreWells Fargo Announces $20 Million “Invest Native” Initiative
Wells Fargo announces a $20 million commitment to advance economic opportunities in Native American communities working with Native-led organizations.
Read MoreFinancial Resources Webinar – Tribal Housing Development: Planning for 2023 and Beyond
Join Enterprise’s Tribal Nations and Rural team for this valuable inventory of available resources. This webinar will include an approach to partnership, updates on current opportunities with Enterprise, and federal policy updates.
Read MoreNMTC Program Native Initiative Technical Workshops (Round Two)
Native Community Development Entities (CDEs), Native Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), sponsors of Native-owned projects, and other tribal entities are invited to attend the second New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) Technical Workshop as part of the CDFI Fund’s NMTC Native Initiative.
Read MorePublic Comment Period Extended for Annual Certification and Data Collection Report and Abbreviated Transaction Level Report
The U.S. Treasury Department is extending the deadline to submit comments in response to its solicitation for public feedback on revisions to the Annual Certification and Data Collection Report (ACR), and abbreviated Transaction Level Report (TLR). The new deadline to submit comments is now January 27, 2023.
Read MoreFederal Housing Finance Agency’s FHLBank System at 100: Focusing on the Future Initiative
On August 31, the Federal Housing Finance Agency announced the FHLBank System at 100: Focusing on the Future initiative. The initiative looks to ensure that as the Federal Home Loan Bank System approaches its centennial, it continues to be well positioned to meet the needs of our members and the communities they...
Read MoreNative FORGE kicks-off first entrepreneurial cohort in partnership with San Carlos Apache Tribe
Small business incubator Native FORGE has launched its first cohort in partnership with the San Carlos Apache Tribe of Arizona. An initiative of the University of Arizona, Native FORGE focuses on serving the specific needs of Native entrepreneurs in the state. For each year-long cohort, the incubator will target its...
Read MoreTreasury Announces $5 Billion in New Markets Tax Credit Awards to Revitalize Low-Income and Distressed Communities
Baltimore, MD – Treasurer of the United States Chief Lynn Malerba, joined by U.S. Senators Benjamin L. Cardin and Chris Van Hollen, U.S. Representative Kweisi Mfume, and Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) Director Jodie Harris, today announced more than $5 billion in New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) awards nationwide.
Read MoreNAAF FINPACK+ Training Application Deadline Approaching!
The Native American Agriculture Fund (NAAF) FINPACK+ Training application deadline is approaching! The training will take place November 15-17 in St. Paul, MN.
Read MoreCDFI Fund Announces FY 2022 CDFI Program and NACA Program Technical Assistance Awards
The CDFI Fund announced that 218 organizations received $27.57 million in Technical Assistance awards to build their capacity to provide services to low-income and underserved people and communities across America. NCN has been awarded $150,000 from the NACA Program for Technical Assistance.
Read MoreOweesta Corporation’s Chrystel Cornelius Receives Heinz Award
Chrystel Cornelius, President and CEO of Oweesta Corporation, received the Heinz Award for the Economy for her work addressing centuries of disenfranchisement that have led to profound socioeconomic disparities for Native communities.
Read MoreHelp improve what’s known about Native small businesses: Survey is now open!
Help us learn more about the successes and challenges Native business owners faced this past year by filling out the Federal Reserve's 2022 Small Business Credit Survey.
Read MorePresident Biden Has Proclaimed September 18-24, 2022 as Minority Enterprise Development Week!
Minority Enterprise Development Week (September 18-24) is a great opportunity to celebrate the variety of ways that Native CDFIs support minority entrepreneurs and work to reduce the racial wealth gap.
Read MoreDeadline to Submit FY 2022 CDFI ERP Application is this Thursday, September 22!
As a reminder for fiscal year (FY) 2022 CDFI Equitable Recovery Program (CDFI ERP) Applicants, the deadline for online submission of the Application through the CDFI Fund's Awards Management Information System (AMIS) is September 22, 2022 at 11:59 P.M. ET.
Read MoreThe U.S. Government Accountability Office offers recommendations for economic development assistance in Native communities
The U.S. GAO has released its report on Indian economic development that includes, among other objectives, the examination of economic development programs available to tribal entities.
Read MorePlains Regional Native CDFI Coalition Among 21 Winners of $1 Billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge
Funded by President Biden's American Rescue Plan and administered by the U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA), the Regional Challenge provides each award winner funding to rebuild regional economies, promote inclusive and equitable recovery
Read MoreMontana Native Growth Fund: Open Position
Island Mountain Community Development Financial Institution, doing business as Montana Native Growth Fund (MNGF) is an emerging Native CDFI, a separate entity with its own Board of Directors, mission and vision. The mission of Montana Native Growth Fund is to create economic opportunity
Read MoreBreaking News: U.S. Department of the Treasury Extended the Deadline to Initiate and Submit SSBCI Capital Program Application
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 October 31, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET).
Read MoreApply for NeighborWorks Achieving Excellence Program
The NeighborWorks Achieving Excellence Program, conducted in collaboration with Harvard University, is now accepting applications through September 16, 2022 for the 11th cohort, starting in early 2023. Fifty high-performing CEOs and senior leaders of community-serving organizations across the country will have the opportunity to transform their organization for greater impact and address their...
Read MoreSchatz Releases Resource Guide on Largest Investment in Climate Adaptation, Clean Energy for Native Communities in History
U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs released a resource guide on provisions supporting Tribes and Native communities in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA), which President Biden signed into law on August 16, 2022. More than $720 million in direct climate resilience and energy funding will be available...
Read MoreCDFI Fund Extends Application for CDFI Equitable Recovery Program Funding
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...
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