2023 Full Coalition Convening

In July 2023, representatives from 25 CDFIs gathered at the McKnight Foundation office to discuss their activities, plans, and challenges. Commissioner Matt Varilek from MN Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) joined us to talk about the Governor’s priorities and to invite input from CDFis for his priorities and implementation plans at DEED. The Advocacy Working Group shared an update on successes in the 2023 legislative session and requested input for 2024 advocacy priorities. Implementation of the new funding and policies won at the Capitol was a big topic of discussion. Large and small group discussions surfaced opportunities/need for shared learning around emerging topics including CDFI recertification, lending technology, new product development, technical assistance, and telling the story of CDFIs. Discussions with peers in similar roles at other CDFIs showed the value of these relationships.