Opportunity Finance Network

"We are made for this moment." These words, shared by our CEO, Harold Pettigrew, Jr., remind us of the resilience that runs deep within the #CDFI community. From the civil rights movement to economic opportunity, our work builds on the legacy of pioneers who believed in a better future for all. Today, we honor that legacy by standing together. We’re moving forward with optimism about partnering with the new administration and highlighting how we can fuel the economy with clean energy programs that are set to create jobs and opportunities for American families. Our thanks to the industry and everyone dedicated to driving inclusive finance and impact investing. Together, we're ready for the work ahead. #MadeByHistory #MadeForThisMoment #CDFIs #InclusiveFinance

A critical piece of the work of CDFIs is capacity-building and technical assistance. This Fed Communities article highlights that well, along with the continued need for research and impact measurement of our industry. Thanks to the Fed for partnering with this work and Dafina Williams and Adrienne Smith for their thought leadership in this piece.?

At OFN, we’re a team dedicated to making a difference. If you’re ready to join a collaborative environment focused on impactful work, check out our open positions! https://lnkd.in/e5TE_KBp #ImpactJobs #OFN40

Lakeshore Enterprises, LLC, led by Dr. Joseph Brown, has made a big leap for sustainable energy in Monticello, KY! After a power outage risked critical medical supplies, Brown saw the need for a reliable energy source. Thanks to OFN member Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation (KHIC), the medical office building he owns now has 76 rooftop solar panels and two Tesla Powerwall batteries to store energy. Financing solar in rural areas can be tough. But with #CDFIs like KHIC stepping in, clean energy solutions are within reach for communities across the country. Comment "Clean Energy" to learn more. #CleanEnergy #SolarPower #GreenFinance #SustainableCommunities

OFN welcomes four new members to our board of directors! Thank you to all of the passionate and dedicated leaders that put put themselves forward for this election. Join us in welcoming Skya Ducheneaux, John Holdsclaw IV (jhiv), Nelly Rojas-Moreno, and Arlo Washington, as OFN's newest board members! In this role, they will help to pave the future of community finance and drive opportunity across the nation. https://lnkd.in/eg8pEqyr

Strengthen your #CDFI expertise! OFN’s upcoming trainings cover essential skills like impact measurement, finance, and development strategies. Perfect for professionals working to grow community impact through financing. Register now! https://lnkd.in/e2FrAUaM #CDFITraining #ProfessionalDevelopment

OFN is hiring! Help drive climate resilience through community finance. Apply for roles in climate finance, data, and more. https://lnkd.in/e5TE_KBp #ClimateJobs #OFN40

Stay tuned for the #OFN40 recap! While you wait, join the conversation and catch highlights on social media with #OFN40. We'll be releasing plenary session recordings and other select content for free in the coming weeks—don’t miss out!

Last week, we were honored to receive two awards for our small business lending work during Opportunity Finance Network’s 40th annual conference. ?????? The first was the “Emerging Growth CDFI Award” that honors CDFIs that have demonstrated exceptional growth and service to their community over the last three years. Swipe left to hear our acceptance speech. The second was the “Lender of the Year” award from our partners at Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC). Together, we’ve deployed over $2.5 million in micro-loans to entrepreneurs of color over the last two years. We are so grateful for these recognitions and are even more committed to helping our #community access the capital they deserve.

This month, we’re celebrating NeighborWorks Montana, an OFN member #CDFI transforming housing access across the state for over 25 years! With innovative lending, counseling, and educational support, they empower Montanans to achieve financial stability and affordable housing—especially for those in manufactured home parks. OFN’s First Timer Scholarship brought four NeighborWorks staff members to OFN’s 40th Annual Conference this year. Join us in welcoming them and hear more about their work, from pioneering Resident Owned Communities (ROCs) to leading new loan funds with local partners. Comment "NeighborWorks Montana" to learn more. #CDFI #AffordableHousing #OFN40 #CommunityFinance