Advancing native cdfis: northeast expansion and lending innovation initiative - the native cdfi network (NCN) proposes a three-year initiative to expand the native cdfi industry into the northeast…

Native CDFI Network Inc. (NCN) received a $720,230 Project Grant award from the Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Native Americans under the Native American Programs (CFDA 93.612) on September 30, 2025, to support a three-year initiative through September 29, 2028. The grant funds the "Advancing Native CDFIs: Northeast Expansion and Lending Innovation Initiative," which addresses the limited availability of financial services and capital in Native communities through targeted expansion and capacity-building efforts.

Under this award, NCN will deliver technical assistance, training, and peer support to launch at least four new Native Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) in the Northeast region, while simultaneously strengthening lending capacity among Native CDFIs nationwide. Key deliverables include delivering the NCN Lending Innovation Certificate Program to 60 Native CDFI leaders and producing 20 new or expanded loan products that will enable Native CDFIs to lead community-centered economic development initiatives. The program represents a strategic investment in building sustainable financial infrastructure within underserved Native American communities.

Advancing native cdfis: northeast expansion and lending innovation initiative - the native cdfi network (NCN) proposes a three-year initiative to expand the native cdfi industry into the northeast region of the united states while also strengthening lending capacity among native cdfis nationwide. This project addresses the persistent limited availability of financial services and capital in native communities by supporting the development of new native cdfis and delivering the NCN lending innovation certificate program to 60 native cdfi leaders. Through technical assistance, training, and peer support, the initiative will launch at least four new native cdfis, produce 20 new or expanded loan products, and equip native cdfis to lead transformative, community-centered economic development.