We are looking forward to an exciting day filled with conversations and connections. Sessions have been designed with input from Minnesota CDFIs, with an eye to having a variety of perspectives come together. There are opportunities for CDFIs of all types and sizes to participate, and conversations for people working across all kinds of CDFI functions. We look forward to seeing you in St. Cloud – register now!

9:00 AM – Welcome

Doors open and welcome networking breakfast

10:00 AM – Opening Plenary

The State of CDFIs – A National and Local Perspective
Kick off the conference with broad perspectives on the work of CDFIs in this moment, how we navigate this current environment, and necessary partnership and advocacy work.

• Dafina Williams, EVP, Chief Public Policy Officer and Head of Government Affairs, Opportunity Finance Network
• Megan Teare, Managing Director, Community Lending and Investment, Wells Fargo Corporate and Investment Banking
• LeeAnn Rasachak, CEO, WomenVenture, and MN CDFI Coalition Board Chair

11:30 AM – Breakouts Round 1

Dive in with the first round of topical presentations and conversations

• Bank and CDFI Partnerships – A conversation with Stearns Banks and regional partners
• Portfolio Management – Practical discussion on managing loan risk and growth in this environment
• Metrics That Matter – Connecting Risk, Cost, and Impact in CDFI Performance
• 21st Century ROAD to Housing – Update on new housing legislation and opportunities
• Energy Efficiency & Green Resource Partnerships with CDFIs, Energy Smart & SBEEDi

12:30 PM – Lunch

Enjoy a lunch catered by CDFI client Jules Bistro, presented by US Bank

1:30 PM – Breakouts Round 2

Get plugged in to after lunch conversations with peers – these sessions are geared towards conversation and connection

• CFOs & Financial Leaders Conversation
• HR & Internal Operations Conversation
• Marketing, Communications & Storytelling Conversation
• Programs & Evaluation Conversation
• Conversation on Coalition work, fraud narratives, and meeting the moment

2:30 PM – Networking Break

Carry on the conversation and grab a snack!

3:00 PM – Breakouts Round 3

Close out the breakouts with practical learning and discussion

• Child Care – The challenges, needs and opportunities facing child care partners and providers in 2026
• Disaster Planning Exercise – A tabletop simulation of loss of loan software access
• Credit Building – Discussion on credit building activity to get clients ready for loans and banking
• Individual & Impact Investors – Individual investors in CDFIs
• Small Business Coalition – Updates and discussion of coalition work in the next session

4:00 PM – Closing remarks

Wrap up the day with reflection and feedback – and stay tuned for Happy Hour opportunities in St. Cloud!