New Jersey Community Capital

Economic growth in 2024 looks strong, but the numbers don’t tell the whole story. Nearly 1,000 U.S. counties—home to 20% of the population—are still struggling to recover economically. Data shows these communities face 1.8 million fewer jobs than in 2000. Systemic barriers like unfair lending practices and housing obstacles have hindered real progress for decades. NJCC is tackling this head-on with targeted investments in affordable housing, small business support, and essential services to close the economic gap. Explore the data behind this critical work and learn how these efforts are driving sustainable change: https://lnkd.in/eEC_XDnn #financialinclusion #economicrecovery #communityinvestment #affordablehousing #sustainablechange #smallbusinesssupport #economicgrowth #socialimpact

Did you know that despite robust economic growth, almost a fifth of the U.S. population lives in counties left behind? These communities struggle with entrenched barriers like limited access to capital, unfair lending, and housing obstacles that hold back their economic potential. Organizations like NJCC are bridging the gap, providing critical support in affordable housing, small business investment, and community development. Dedicated team works persistently on the ground, establishing trust and targeting systemic issues through innovative programs. Read the full article from NJCC President and CEO Bernel Hall for more in-depth data and insights on creating lasting economic change: https://lnkd.in/eEC_XDnn #economicdevelopment #cdfi #affordablehousing #impactinvesting #wealthgap #communitysupport

Today at SuperReturn, our President & CEO Bernel Hall joined a thought-provoking panel on "The Emerging Manager Story: Forging Ahead Amid Ongoing Uncertainty." The session, moderated by National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC)'s Robert L. Greene (Bob), brought together industry leaders, including Joshua Koplewicz (Thayer Street Partners) and Melissa Román Burch (Nyc Economic Development Corp). Bernel shared unique insights on the CDFI industry's role as an "emerging manager," highlighting the industry's "relative youth and keen ability to connect capital to community at sustainable rates of return." It was a powerful discussion on how emerging managers, like NJCC, contribute to solving market inefficiencies and making impactful investments. Special thanks to our fellow panelists and moderator for an inspiring conversation #EmergingManagers #InstitutionalInvestors #CommunityImpact #SustainableInvesting #SuperReturnNA #CDFI

Honored to Be a Finalist for the NJ Chamber DE&I Trailblazer Award! ?? On November 14, the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce will recognize companies that truly “walk the walk” in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. We're thrilled to be nominated among trailblazers in categories like Board Diversity, Supplier Diversity, Access to Capital, and more. Every nominee is making a difference, and we’re proud to stand alongside them in the mission for a more inclusive New Jersey. Hope to see some of you there. Reserve your spot and join us in celebrating this impactful work - https://lnkd.in/edKyqUuc #DEI #DiversityAndInclusion #JerseyStrong

With today’s crises in affordable housing, minority entrepreneurship, and climate resilience, sharing knowledge with partners and investors has never been more vital. At NJCC, we’re leveraging every opportunity to address these challenges head-on. ?? On November 13, NJCC’s CEO, Bernel Hall, will be at SuperReturn North America to spotlight an urgent priority: expanding access to capital for BIPOC and female entrepreneurs. When these business owners have the resources to grow, the ripple effect is powerful: - More quality jobs in underserved communities - Economic stability and resilience in local markets - Increased affordable housing through diverse real estate developers Supporting these entrepreneurs means creating pathways to wealth and community growth, even amid uncertainty. Together, we’re building a more inclusive and resilient economy. #ImpactInvesting #EconomicEmpowerment #InclusiveEconomy #CommunityWealth #SRNA

In today’s impact investing landscape, collaboration is crucial. From affordable housing and minority entrepreneurship to climate action and education, the challenges we face demand united efforts and shared knowledge. At the recent Opportunity Finance Network Conference, NJCC’s CIO, Claudia Lima, joined a panel on strategies to: - Revitalize underserved communities without displacement - Create wealth and economic stability in high-need areas Through NJCC’s initiatives, we’re making this vision a reality: - Address Yourself? Homeownership Program – Helping community members achieve homeownership and build wealth - Small Business Lending Program – Providing capital to empower minority and underserved entrepreneurs Together, we’re turning opportunities into lasting impact. #ImpactInvesting #CommunityDevelopment #AffordableHousing #EconomicEmpowerment #OFN40

Real estate can be a game-changer in underserved areas - especially when it brings both cultural amenities and housing equity. ?? Newark’s NJ Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) – A $336M project with 350 apartments (70 affordable), retail, and a community hub, set to breathe life into Newark’s business district. ?? Fairview Heights in Jersey City – Revitalizing the former YMCA with 92 mixed-income units (52 affordable) and sustainable design, it’s a new model for equitable development. These projects represent more than construction - they’re about creating vibrant, inclusive communities that foster pride and opportunity. #CommunityImpact #AffordableHousing #UrbanRenewal #BuildingEquity

Homeownership is more than just owning a home - it’s about building economic security, equity, and intergenerational wealth. Yet, as the data shows, we still have a long journey ahead. That's where NJCC’s Address Yourself? program steps in. Through this initiative, we're empowering low-to-moderate-income families with financial education, homeownership counseling, and down payment assistance—making homeownership goals a reality for those who need it most. We're immensely grateful to our recent supporters who are helping us fuel this mission: TD Bank Capital One Tides Foundation Provident Bank Amboy Bank OceanFirst Bank With every donation, we're one step closer to creating sustainable, positive change. Make sure you're following New Jersey Community Capital in this space for success stories as we bring these funds to life! #AddressYourself #Homeownership #EconomicEmpowerment #CommunityImpact #GenerationalWealth #CDFI

9 Ways to Cultivate Intellectual Curiosity for Real Impact ?? 1. Be a self-motivated problem solver: Start with a proactive mindset—every challenge is a chance to grow. 2. Stay creative and open-minded: Innovation happens when you’re willing to see things differently. 3. Drive change: Don’t wait for it. Look for ways to make an impact right where you are. 4. Pursue growth and learning: Curiosity means never settling; keep pushing to know more and do better. 5. Stay willing to learn: Approach each day with the mindset of a student. 6. Listen carefully: Great solutions come from understanding others and hearing what’s not being said. 7. Do your research: Facts matter. Let knowledge be your guide in all decisions. 8. Decide based on facts and context: Don’t jump to conclusions; let informed insights lead the way. 9. Challenge assumptions: Use creative finance tools and innovative thinking to unlock new opportunities. At NJCC, we believe curiosity isn’t just a skill - it’s our edge. It’s how we create lasting, positive change in underserved communities. #economicdevelopment #financialempowerment #impactinvesting

Are Conventional Banks Falling Behind in Supporting Underserved Communities? The CDFI revolution is paving the way for greater access to financial services in underserved areas. - More communities, especially those overlooked by traditional banks, are gaining access to crucial financial support. - Investment opportunities are growing, fueling local development and economic empowerment. - Support for small businesses and startups is growing, offering more opportunities for entrepreneurs to access needed resources. The CDFI industry is expanding, offering more resources and sophisticated strategies. Learn more about how NJCC is driving this change at https://lnkd.in/e6SeBXB #financialempowerment #socialimpact #underservedcommunities #financialinclusion #communitydevelopment #economicempowerment #cdfi