A movement for economic justice.
We believe we are stronger together
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Advocate for institutional and public policies
We address the barriers to community and economic development, Black business growth, wealth creation, and financial protections in African American communities
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Empower a national network of African-American CDFI CEOs
We strengthen our member fiscal and impact capacity using best practices to facilitate social and economic advancement in their communities.
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Advance Racial Equity & Black Wealth
We utilize research tools to elevate the disproportionate investment in Black-led CDFIs, and to advocate for a redistribution of capital flow to these CDFIs.
Become a member
African American Equity Impact Scorecard
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Power Building
Black leaders creating a path toward equitable policies and practices within the Black community.
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Economic Development and Job Creation
Non-profits, cooperatives, and businesses working toward a living wage, basic benefits, career-building, wealth-building opportunities and/or a fair and engaging workplace.
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Equity
Projects proactively addressing historical and current systemic oppression in order to ensure fairness in the access to opportunities, resources, and rights for the Black community.
In Memoriam: Inez Long
We honor the life and legacy of Inez Long, who served as President and CEO of the Black Business Investment Fund (BBIF) Florida and was a cherished board member and co-founder of the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs.
Inez was a visionary leader whose unwavering commitment to economic justice transformed the landscape for Black and minority-owned businesses. For over 30 years, she led BBIF with passion, integrity, and a steadfast dedication to innovation and excellence.
As a co-founder of The Alliance, Inez was a driving force in advancing Black-led CDFIs, ensuring that communities of color had the resources and support needed to thrive. Her advocacy and leadership were instrumental in shaping policies and initiatives that continue to uplift historically marginalized businesses. Her legacy of empowerment, community development, and economic resilience will continue to inspire generations to come.
Our Partners
Latest News & Events
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May 13, 2025
The First 100 days of the Trump Administration in 2025: Impacts on the Black Community & CDFI Industry
The first 100 days of President Trump’s second term have introduced major federal shifts with serious implications for Black communities and the Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) sector. On May 2, 2025, the administration proposed a $100 million Rural Financial Award Program requiring 60% of CDFI activity to serve rural areas—potentially sidelining urban, majority-Black communities.
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May 12, 2025
Celebrating Five Years of Service, Impact, and Meaningful Change
Dear Friends and Allies, In 2018, I sat in a room with 22 visionary Black CDFI CEOs bound not just by profession, but by purpose and passion. That meeting held in Raleigh, NC, was the beginning of a movement. Every person shared the mission to close the racial wealth gap and uplift Black communities through
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May 8, 2025
African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs Announces Leadership Transition as Lenwood V. Long, Sr. Retires
Amber Banks-Bond to Assume Role as President & CEO, Continuing Legacy of Advancing Black Economic Justice FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 6, 2025 Orlando, Florida — The African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs (“The Alliance”) today announced that its esteemed Co-founder and CEO, Lenwood V. Long, Sr., will retire at the end of 2025. Since the
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May 6, 2025
A New Chapter for the Alliance – A Special Message from Lenwood V. Long, Sr.
Dear friends and allies, Today, I write to you with a heart full of gratitude—and yes, with a bit of bittersweet emotion—as I announce that I will be retiring as CEO of the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs at the end of 2025. This decision did not come easily. How could it, when this
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April 28, 2025
Strengthening Communities Through Financial Literacy
When people hear “financial literacy,” they often think of financial planning apps and spreadsheets. But for many of our neighbors, financial literacy starts with something even more fundamental: access. Gaining access to housing, capital, and tools that empower individuals to make informed choices are crucial steps towards accumulating wealth. This is where economic development plays
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April 28, 2025
Baltimore Community Lending and Black Business Investment Fund Unite to Expand Economic Opportunity
Partnership holds undeniable power when Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) come together around a shared mission, combining their unique strengths to overcome challenges and broaden their collective impact. Watchen Bruce, President and CEO of Baltimore Community Lending (BCL), along with Duane Lewis, COO, and Oraine Reid, CFO of Black Business Investment Fund (BBIF), are members
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