Summary of Primary Financing Programs
CDFI Funds Programs
CDFI Certification:
A designation for specialized financial institutions that provide financial services in low-income communities and to people who lack access to financing.
Technical Assistance Awards:
Grants provided to CDFIs to build their capacity to serve low-income communities by funding activities such as staff training, technology purchases, and consulting services. Maximum award: $125K.
Financial Assistance Awards:
Grants awarded to CDFIs to enhance their ability to provide loans, investments, and financial services to underserved populations. Maximum award: $2M.
Capital Magnet Fund:
A program that provides grants to CDFIs and nonprofit housing organizations to finance affordable housing and related economic development activities. Maximum award: $15M.
New Markets Tax Credit Program:
A federal subsidy program designed to incentivize development projects that help revitalize distressed communities.
Bond Guarantee Program:
A program that provides CDFIs with access to long-term, low-cost capital by guaranteeing bonds issued by qualified CDFIs. Maximum guarantee: $150M.
Small Dollar Loan Program:
A program aimed at supporting CDFIs that offer affordable consumer loans to low-income individuals, helping them avoid predatory lending practices. Maximum award: $750,000.
EPA Programs
Community Change Grant Program:
A grant program that supports community-led projects aimed at improving environmental and public health outcomes in underserved communities. Maximum award: $40M.
Clean Communities Investment Accelerator:
A program designed to accelerate investment in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure projects in low-income communities. Maximum award: $11M.
National Community Investment Fund:
A fund that supports investments in community development financial institutions and other organizations that provide financial services to underserved communities. Maximum award: TBD.
USDA Programs
Buisness & Industry:
A program that provides loan guarantees to rural businesses to improve, develop, or finance business, industry, and employment. Maximum guarantee: $25M.
Community Facilities:
A program that offers direct loans, loan guarantees, and grants to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. Maximum award: $5M.
Rural Energy for America Program:
A program that provides grants and loan guarantees to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements. Maximum grant: $750K.
Federal Historic Tax Credits:
The federal Historic Tax Credit (HTC) is available for the rehabilitation of historic, income-producing buildings determined by the Secretary of the Interior, through the National Park Service, to be “certified historic structures.