Introduction to CDFIs: Why Credit Unions Are (and Always Have Been) Community Development Financial Institutions
Credit unions have always been engines of community development, long before the CDFI Fund existed.
Credit unions have always been engines of community development, long before the CDFI Fund existed.
Mike Beall, John McKechnie. and Christine Duncan wrap up an eventful year for the CDFI Fund and cover what credit unions need to know heading into 2026.
The next big storm in the Gulf isn’t an “if,” it’s a “when,” but the small Gulf-area credit union has a plan to help the community get back on its feet when the time comes.
Amid a turbulent financial landscape, credit unions across the country stepped in with lending, grants, and community partnerships to support small businesses and entrepreneurs.
The Arizona-based credit union has revamped its approach to financial education and community partnerships to better serve the needs of its market.
A pair of CDFI grants allowed the Florida-based credit union to help members restart their lives on the island or relocate to the United States.
NOLA Firemen’s FCU helps members qualify for a mortgage in a state where poverty is high and insurance premiums are keeping many would-be borrowers out of a home.
Stay up-to-date with the latest changes, opportunities, and compliance requirements for CDFIs, including certification, grants, and legislative updates for 2025 and beyond.
Lake Trust Credit Union is driving statewide entrepreneurial spirit with a loan program that has provided more than $22 million in funding.
A partnership that helps the homeless wouldn’t be nearly as successful without the right people in the right seats — but that means more than just looking for the right work background.

A cross-functional team comprising nearly 20% of staff helped the Maryland-based credit union manage the crisis while staying focused on helping members.

Four executives share how they are skilling up and soothing nerves as they navigate the AI revolution in real time.

The future of leadership starts now. This week, CreditUnions.com is diving into the strategies shaping tomorrow’s talent: from a bold overhaul of succession planning to how credit unions are tackling the AI skills gap.

Assessing skills gaps among leaders and providing time to complete training are major hurdles today, but strong leadership development strategies are essential in building a future-ready credit union.

A report from Quantum Governance reveals a gap between board recruitment priorities and the most valuable skills in governance.

Fair, transparent succession helps credit unions strengthen board effectiveness, align leadership with strategy, and safeguard member value.

The California cooperative moves beyond the 9-box to identify skills, gaps, and opportunities to prepare leaders for what’s next.

The right tools and consistent approach make succession planning simpler for credit union leaders and board members.

CreditUnions.com revisits three credit unions to learn how their strategies have evolved since their original spotlight and see what’s in store for the future.

A national leader in urban agriculture shows how front-line insights drive real local impact — and why credit union branches are perfectly positioned to do the same.