Empower Your Credit Union: Leverage the CDFI Fund

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The Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund is an invaluable resource for credit unions committed to serving underserved communities. By becoming a CDFI-certified credit union, you can unlock the benefits that enhance your ability to support small business members and drive community development.

Get the facts on CDFI credit unions.

Why Participate in the CDFI Program?

CDFI-certified credit unions gain access to funding opportunities that can be utilized in various ways. These funds can bolster loan offerings, provide financial education, and support community development projects. Essentially, participating in the CDFI program empowers credit unions to make a more significant impact by offering financial products tailored to meet the unique needs of their communities.

See how your state stacks up in the CDFI space by clicking on the links below.

              Arkansas Profile

              Missouri Profile

              Oklahoma Profile

              Texas Profile

Benefits of Being a CDFI Credit Union

• Access to Federal Funding: Receive grants and awards that can be used to enhance your services to your members.
• Capacity Building: Strengthen your institution’s ability to serve low-income communities through technical assistance and training.
• Community Impact: Support small businesses, promote financial literacy, and foster economic growth within underserved areas.

Hike at Home During the Congressional August Recess

Get actively engaged with your lawmakers by conducting your own Hike at Home during the congressional recess, which runs the entire month of August. Meet with your lawmakers while they’re back in their home districts and explain about the benefits of being a CDFI credit union. Share real stories of your members’ success, thanks to the CDFI program, and explain how the CDFI Fund needs additional funds to reach more consumers and small businesses.

If you need assistance with setting up a meeting during August recess, please contact April Mobley.

More Ways to Get Involved

1. Speak Up Through the Action Center

   Your participation and advocacy can make a significant difference in increasing support for the CDFI Fund. Visit our Action Center to make your voice heard as we prepare to meet with lawmakers at Hike the Hill in September. Access our CDFI Talking Points.

2. Enroll in UNITE

   Join Cornerstone’s UNITE grassroots advocacy team to stay connected and informed about advocacy efforts and community development initiatives and become an ambassador for credit unions. Enroll here.

3. Advocacy Through Writing

   Write op-eds and letters to the editor of your local newspapers and online business journals. Highlight the need to increase funds for the CDFI Fund to raise awareness and support for this vital initiative.

4. Hike the Hill in Washington, D.C., Sept. 10–12 
   Participate in Cornerstone’s annual Hike the Hill. This essential advocacy event provides an excellent opportunity to advocate for policies that support CDFI credit unions, and the CDFI Fund. Register here.

By actively participating in and promoting the CDFI Fund, your credit union can play a pivotal role in empowering communities and fostering economic development.

Learn more about becoming a CDFI credit union at Inclusiv.