Counsel of Development Finance Agencies

The Counsel of Development Finance Agencies (CDFA) is a national organization dedicated to the advancement of development finance. It serves as a vital resource for professionals working in the complex field of public and private development finance, offering education, advocacy, and networking opportunities. Its primary mission is to promote economic growth and community development by strengthening the capacity of development finance agencies (DFAs).

DFAs play a crucial role in bridging financing gaps and attracting investment to projects that stimulate job creation, affordable housing, infrastructure improvements, and overall economic vitality. They operate at various levels, including state, county, and city, and employ a range of financial tools and strategies, such as tax increment financing (TIF), bond financing, revolving loan funds, and public-private partnerships, to achieve their development goals. CDFA recognizes the significance of these agencies and provides them with the necessary support to effectively execute their missions.

One of the core functions of CDFA is education. They offer comprehensive training programs, workshops, and conferences that cover a wide spectrum of development finance topics. These educational initiatives equip practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the intricacies of deal structuring, risk management, compliance, and best practices in the industry. Through these programs, CDFA strives to enhance the professional competence of DFA staff and ensure they are well-prepared to address the evolving challenges in the development finance landscape.

Advocacy is another essential aspect of CDFA’s work. The organization actively represents the interests of DFAs at the federal and state levels, advocating for policies that support development finance initiatives. This includes lobbying for tax incentives, infrastructure funding, and regulatory reforms that create a more favorable environment for investment. CDFA’s advocacy efforts help to shape public policy and ensure that DFAs have the resources and legal framework necessary to succeed.

Furthermore, CDFA fosters a strong network of development finance professionals. The organization facilitates connections among its members through events, online forums, and other networking platforms. This network provides a valuable opportunity for practitioners to share best practices, collaborate on projects, and learn from each other’s experiences. By building a community of experts, CDFA promotes innovation and collaboration in the development finance field.

In summary, the Counsel of Development Finance Agencies is a critical organization that plays a multifaceted role in supporting and advancing development finance. Through education, advocacy, and networking, CDFA empowers DFAs to effectively contribute to economic growth and community development. Its work is essential for ensuring that these agencies have the tools and resources needed to create thriving and sustainable communities across the nation.