Driving Local Impact Through Community-Focused Banking
CDBA and its member banks are united in driving economic empowerment, financial inclusion, and community development. Through innovative programs, targeted advocacy, and educational initiatives, CDBA member banks are making a measurable impact on the communities they serve. In 2023, CDBA played a leading role in shaping the national conversation around community development finance, advancing several key policy priorities to strengthen the sector.
CDBA successfully advocated for improvements to the CDFI Certification process, ensuring that the final application better reflects the realities of community development banking and supports long-term sustainability for mission-driven institutions. The Community Development Investment Tax Credit, reintroduced with strong bipartisan support, promises to bring vital private capital into CDFIs, expanding their reach and impact. Similarly, the Scaling Community Lenders Act, also reintroduced in 2023, would provide resources and infrastructure to help community lenders grow and serve more people in underbanked communities.
CDBA also engaged heavily in the modernization of the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA), ensuring that reforms recognized the distinct role of CDFI banks and enhanced their ability to meet local credit needs. Meanwhile, CDFI banks participating in the Emergency Capital Investment Program (ECIP) have demonstrated outsized performance, delivering high volumes of small business lending and deep-impact investments that drive economic growth where it is needed most.
Through these efforts, CDBA is not only supporting its members—it’s strengthening the entire community development banking sector.
CDBA Members as of 2023
total bank assets
in loans outstanding
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Watch our member banks in action
Driving Impact Through Financial Access and Local Engagement
Affordable Housing Initiatives: Many CDBA member banks have established robust programs to support affordable housing and community development. By partnering with local organizations and investing in the construction of affordable homes, these banks are making homeownership more accessible in low-income neighborhoods.
Financial Literacy and Education: Recognizing the critical role of financial literacy in community empowerment, CDBA member banks offer a range of educational programs. These initiatives provide individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their finances effectively, whether through personal financial management workshops or targeted youth programs designed to prepare the next generation for financial independence.
Support for Small Businesses: Small businesses are the backbone of local economies, and CDBA member banks are dedicated to providing the financial support these businesses need to thrive. Through relationship-based banking models, many member banks offer tailored financial services that help small businesses grow and succeed. By understanding the unique needs of their clients, these banks play a crucial role in driving local economic development and fostering entrepreneurial success.
Community Engagement and Volunteerism: CDBA member banks are deeply integrated into the communities they serve, with many prioritizing community service as a core component of their mission. Employees at these banks actively volunteer their time and participate in local initiatives, reinforcing the banks’ commitment to being active and supportive members of their communities. Through sponsorships of local events and festivals, member banks demonstrate their dedication to enhancing the quality of life in the areas they serve.
Innovative Financial Solutions for Underserved Communities: Innovation is at the heart of many CDBA member banks’ efforts to serve underserved and historically underrepresented communities. These banks offer a range of tailored financial products and services designed to meet the unique needs of these populations, ensuring that everyone has access to the financial tools necessary for economic stability and growth. By focusing on financial inclusion, member banks are helping to create opportunities for individuals and families to build generational wealth.