Find CDFI loans offered by credit unions across the country.

What are CDFIs?

Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) are nonprofit organizations certified by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. There are four CDFI types:

• CDFI Credit Unions
• CDFI Banks
• CDFI Loan Funds
• CDFI Venture Capital Funds

These certified nonprofits provide specialized access to capital to historically marginalized communities.

CDFI Credit Unions

CDFI credit unions provide affordable financial services to low-income, underserved, and economically disadvantaged communities. They offer:

• Personal CDFI Loans: Access to financing for critical needs such as home repairs, education, or debt consolidation.
• Small Business CDFI Loans: Help entrepreneurs and startups launch or grow their ventures. 
• Homeownership CDFI Loans: Provide loans to help individuals and families achieve homeownership.

How to Get a CDFI Loan with a Credit Union

Follow these steps to apply for a CDFI loan:

1. Find a CDFI Credit Union:
   • Use the CDFI locator tool to find one in your state.
2. Join the Credit Union:
   • Meet eligibility requirements (it’s often simple). Learn how to join a credit union.
3. Speak with Credit Union Rep:
   • Ask about the CDFI loans and the requirements for applying.
4. Work with a Loan Officer:
   • They will guide you through the process and help you secure the best terms.

Credit Union CDFI Loan Requirements

Loan requirements vary but generally include:

• Membership: Must be a member of the credit union.
• Proof of Income: Demonstrate the ability to repay the loan.
• Purpose of Loan: Specify whether the loan is for personal use, business, or housing.
• Credit History: Flexible credit criteria to accommodate those with limited credit history.

Benefits of CDFI Credit Unions

1. Serve members who may not qualify for traditional banking services.
2. Lower fees and interest rates compared to payday lenders or traditional banks
3. Invest in local businesses and projects that benefit the community
4. Help members build better financial habits.

How to Find a CDFI Credit Union

Our CDFI list has over 400 CDFI Credit Union lenders. Use the “Filter By State” option. Find a CDFI Credit Union Near You.

Examples of CDFI Credit Unions

1. Hope Credit Union (HOPE):
   • Serves low-income communities in the Deep South.
   • Focuses on affordable housing and economic development.
2. Self-Help Federal Credit Union:
   • Self-Help FCU is the largest CDFI
   • Operates nationwide, focusing on minority and rural communities.
   • Provides mortgages and small business loans.
3. Alternatives Federal Credit Union:
   • Based in New York, offering financial education and affordable loans.

Whether you need a loan, want to build your credit, or simply seek a trusted financial partner, a CDFI credit union might be the perfect fit.

To apply for a CDFI loan, find a CDFI credit union here.