Community Lending: Leveraging Private Capital for Public Good
Today, NAAHL and the Center for Affordable Housing Lending released a new policy brief highlighting the role of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) in fostering economic growth and access to capital for underserved communities.
The policy brief provides a comprehensive analysis of how CDFIs leverage limited public investments into substantial flows of private capital for affordable housing, small business development, and critical community infrastructure. As part of this effort, NAAHL invites its members, policymakers, and practitioners to engage with the findings and recommendations.
“CDFIs play a critical role in bridging the gap in capital for communities that have historically been marginalized in the financial system,” said Sarah Brundage, President and CEO of NAAHL and the Center. “This policy brief is a testament to the success of our members and the power of CDFIs.”
Watch Our New Video on Community Lending
NAAHL is proud to share a new companion video that underscores the crucial role of CDFIs in local communities. This video features industry leaders and policymakers, illustrating how CDFIs provide essential support for affordable housing, small businesses, and more.
Join Us for a Webinar on Community Lending
NAAHL invites its network to participate in a webinar on March 12, 2026, where industry leaders will discuss the importance of collaborative efforts between traditional financial institutions and CDFIs to scale financial access in communities. The webinar is an opportunity for attendees to hear firsthand how these institutions are driving change and making an impact.
Date: March 12, 2026
Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm ET
Link: Register Here