The CDFI Imperative: Unlocking America's Full Potential Through Inclusive Community Finance

America’s growing diversity represents an unprecedented opportunity for economic growth, yet traditional financial systems often remain inaccessible to our multiracial, multiethnic communities. This panel explores how Community Development Financial Institutions are uniquely positioned to unlock this demographic dividend by providing essential capital that creates quality jobs, builds generational wealth, and addresses climate challenges in historically underserved communities.

Our discussion will showcase how CDFIs create lasting impact by understanding the interconnected nature of racial, economic, and environmental justice in both the national and community levels. We’ll examine how supporting underserved entrepreneurs and communities, and creating pathways to business ownership and sustainability can add trillions to our GDP while building more resilient, sustainable communities for all Americans.

The panelists will be joined by these fellow CDFI leaders:

Chrystel Cornelius, Oweesta, CEO – chrystel@oweesta.org
Marla Bilonick, National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders, CEO – mbilonick@nalcab.org