Public, corporate, and philanthropic entities have recently made sizable investments in community development financial institutions (CDFIs) to expand such institutions’ lending to small businesses, especially entrepreneurs of color. Join the Urban Institute for a virtual event exploring how CDFIs have acted as economic first responders during the COVID-19 crisis, the initiatives that helped them rise to the occasion, and what the future holds for the industry and entrepreneurs. Speakers will present new research, share lessons learned from serving diverse entrepreneurs and reflect on how the industry can grow and improve to increase access to capital among underserved business owners.

Speakers

• Patrick Davis, Senior Vice President of Strategy, Community Reinvestment Fund, USA
• Jenny Flores, Head of Small Business Growth Philanthropy, Wells Fargo
• Jorge González-Hermoso, Research Analyst, Urban Institute
• Seth Julyan, Executive Vice President, Network Services, Opportunity Finance Network
• Francisco Lopez, Chief Operations and Innovation Officer, DreamSpring
• Richard Morris, AVP – Senior Program Manager, Main Street Launch
• Karen O’Mansky, Director of Commercial Programs, Self-Help Credit Union
• Brett Theodos, Senior Fellow and Director of the Community Economic Development Hub, Urban Institute

Materials

• Improving Access to Capital for Small-Business Owners of Color

Support for this event is provided by Opportunity Finance Network and Wells Fargo. For more information on the Urban Institute’s funding principles, go to urban.org/fundingprinciples.

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. Please email [email protected] if you require any accommodations or have any questions about this event.

Photo credit: Diego Cervo/Shutterstock