African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs

This is a great piece on CDFIs and the current EO by Oscar Abello, Next City senior economic justice correspondent and author of “The Banks We Deserve: Reclaiming Community Banking for a Just Economy" (Island Press). My favorite part, “It’s not the time to run around and say the sky is falling, because it’s not,” says Brett Theodos, senior fellow and director of the Community Economic Development Hub at the Urban Institute. “On the other hand, it is the time for every CDFI in every red district to call their member of Congress and express how important CDFIs are to their local economy.” Know your history. cc Rochdale Capital https://lnkd.in/eBD4SXMf

I had the privilege of sharing early insights about our transformative African American Equity Impact Scorecard tool and moderating a dynamic panel at NCRC with two incredible women leaders, and Scorecard Champions on the vital role of keeping equity at the heart of finance. We discussed the impact of equitable lending practices and the importance of fostering inclusivity in the financial sector. Grateful for the insights shared and the opportunity to be part of this important conversation. #EquityInFinance #WomenLeaders #JustEconomy #NCRC

Today, our Senior Program Director Laudz Jean-Jacques, MBA alongside Terese Caro, MBA LRC (Legacy Redevelopment Corporation) and Lycrecia Parks of Chicago Community Loan Fund spoke as panelists for the 2025 National Community Reinvestment Coalition - NCRC Just Economy Conference, discussing “Beyond the Buzz: Keeping Racial Equity at the Heart of Finance.” Panelists explored the current environment, responses to equity initiatives from the perspective of financial institutions, and how they can maintain a steadfast commitment to inclusion by embedding it in their strategic frameworks and operational practices. Attendees learned best practices for implementing impact scorecards, targeting programs and funding to specific communities served, and creating metrics that track equity outcomes over time. #CDFIs #JustEconomy #RacialWealthGap

Jodie Harris is the President of PIDC a position she assumed in June 2023. With over three decades of experience in economic development, she focuses on supporting small businesses and fostering growth in Philadelphia's diverse communities. Harris is committed to enhancing Philadelphia's appeal as a business destination by leveraging the city's strengths and opportunities. Welcome to the Alliance family, Jodie! Your leadership in community and economic development is inspiring. #CDFIs #EconomicDevelopment

For Pamela Stewart, Women’s History Month serves as an opportunity to honor the contributions and achievements of women throughout history, particularly Black women whose stories often go untold. Through her work at PALM BEACH COUNTY BLACK BUSINESS INVESTMENT CORPORATION and her unwavering dedication to economic justice, Pamela is ensuring that Black women entrepreneurs not only have a seat at the table but are also equipped to lead and transform their communities. ?? Learn more on how BBIC is impacting women entrepreneurs through loans, development services, and dynamic initiatives: https://shorturl.at/tdCIF #WomensHistoryMonth #CDFIs

The Central County Community Development Corporation became an early member of The Alliance, a decision Dr. Germaine Smith-Baugh, Ed.D. describes as a “quick and resounding ‘yes’” when approached by trailblazers like the late Inez Long. For Dr. Baugh, The Alliance is a source of inspiration and collaboration. ?? As Women’s History Month comes to an end, Lenwood V. Long, Sr., dives into Dr. Baugh’s impactful journey with Urban League of Broward County here: https://shorturl.at/7F2WQ #WomensHistoryMonth #CDFIs #ForbesBLK

We expand the financial capacity of our members through collective and cooperative strategies so that Black-led CDFIs are resourced with the financial capital, human capital, and technical capacity to be catalysts for economic mobility, prosperity, and wealth-building for Black communities. Kimberly Lyle of Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation shares our commitment to building Black wealth by driving sustainable economic growth in our communities. Become a sponsor today to build strong, thriving Black communities. Contact Eleanor Reid at [email protected] with any questions or to confirm your support. #BlackWealthMatters #RacialWealthGap

During Della’s conversation on our Black Money Series LinkedIn Live, she highlights how the services and support provided by The Enterprise Center for minority entrepreneurs extend beyond the typical role of a CDFI. Watch her live to learn more about the impactful work The Enterprise Center is doing in the Mid-Atlantic region: https://shorturl.at/wtX6O. Connect with us on LinkedIn and stay engaged as we continue our Black Money Series, featuring transformative CDFI leaders! #EconomicGrowth #CDFIs #BlackMoneySeries

Madam C.J. Walker, a self-made millionaire, built an empire and empowered countless Black women. Her entrepreneurial spirit fuels our mission to support Black-owned businesses. #WomensHistoryMonth #CDFI