The Impact of CDFI Funding: How You Can Help Us Make the Case

The Trump Administration’s recent Executive Order is focused on reducing the size of the federal government, which includes eliminating and reducing functions such as the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund. While the CDFI Fund is protected by statute, we anticipate that President Trump will likely advocate against its funding in the congressional appropriations process.

With 52 CDFIs in The League’s footprint and even more credit unions seeking designation this year, we recognize the significant value the CDFI Fund brings to credit unions and the communities they serve. The resources provided through CDFI certification support efforts to expand access to affordable financial services, invest in underserved areas, and foster economic growth.

To highlight the ongoing positive impact of CDFI funding, we ask for your help in sharing data and stories about how you’ve utilized these resources to empower your communities. Information related to workforce development, transportation, housing, and small businesses will be particularly beneficial. Additionally, examples of how a grant—such as a $1 million award—has resulted in far-reaching community impact will strengthen our case.

We continue to work closely with CDFI champions in Congress, including members of the bipartisan CDFI Caucus, to advocate on credit unions behalf. By sharing your stories, we can collectively ensure that the value of the CDFI Fund is recognized, and credit unions remain empowered to continue investing in their local communities.

Please reach out to Grace Colvin, our Vice President of Federal Advocacy and Strategy, to share your data and success stories. Help us amplify your work in D.C. to showcase the positive and tangible impacts of the CDFI Fund.

You can find The League’s full statement about the executive order here. Additionally, Inclusiv is coordinating a joint letter advocating for the CDFI Fund, and we encourage you to sign it by submitting your response via this form. If you have any questions, please email them at advocacy@inclusiv.org.