American Banker | As CDFIs Face Headwinds, States Bolster Their Support

Rising interest rates have made it harder for CDFIs to offer affordable loans to small businesses, first-time homebuyers, and others in the communities they serve. A total of nine states now have state-funded CDFI programs, most of which were started during the Biden administration. The programs help CDFIs provide less expensive loans. “In this high-interest-rate […]

Common Ground Media | Community Development Financial Institutions help rural Northern communities fund affordable housing, education, support small business growth

Common Ground Media connected with Michigan CDFI Coalition members for their Block by Block series to discuss the role they play in closing gaps between traditional lending and CDFI support.  Rural communities often experience a lack of capital access due to bank mergers, or community banks leaving their areas. CDFIs step in to bridge the […]

Advocacy Tour | The Gallery Beauty Supply

Our advocacy tours provide a firsthand look at the impact CDFI dollars have across Michigan. Recently, we had the privilege of welcoming several state legislators to see how CDFI lending supports small businesses and strengthens local economies. A highlight of these visits was Rep. Linting’s tour of The Gallery Beauty Supply in Southgate, a thriving […]

Advocacy Tour | GLOV Enterprises

Rep. Jenkins-Arno recently toured GLOV Enterprises in Tecumseh, an injection molding company with cradle-to-grave design engineering capabilities serving the industrial, consumer, and automotive markets. Supported by a loan from Northern Initiatives, GLOV Enterprises demonstrates how CDFI lending can help small and mid-sized businesses expand operations, innovate, and remain industry-leaders. During the visit, Rep. Jenkins-Arno had […]

Advocacy Tour | Tasty Twist

Rep. Wortz recently visited Tasty Twist in Coldwater, a unique ice cream retail restaurant supported by Northern Initiatives. Tasty Twist offers premium treats and eats, featuring a rotating selection of flavors, specialty treats, and a full menu of light food items. CDFI lending is more than just financing, it’s a driver of community impact, as […]