National convening brings together Black-led CDFI leaders, funders, and partners to advance equitable access to capital and shape the future of community finance
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 16, 2026
NEW ORLEANS – The African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs (The Alliance) will host its 2026 Annual Conference, ONWARD, from June 16-18, 2026, at The Westin New Orleans (100 Iberville St). This three-day convening will bring together leaders of Black-led Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), alongside funders, policy makers, and industry partners, to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships, and shape the future of community finance.
Centered on the theme “ONWARD: Our Legacy. Our Leadership. Our Charge,” the conference reflects The Alliance’s commitment to advancing and protecting the leadership, impact,and long-term future of Black-led CDFIs. The event is supported by sponsors such as J.P. Morgan Chase and U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance, whose continued investment underscores a shared commitment to closing the racial wealth gap.
Attendees will engage in dynamic, solutions-driven programming designed to accelerate measurable impact across the community development sector.
This year’s agenda includes:
- National forums sharing key insights from national leaders, including Harold Pettigrew, CEO of Opportunity Finance Network, and Xavier Ramsey, Founder & CEO of Justice Informed
- Breakout sessions on climate resilience, technology and data integration, inclusive housing solutions, and portfolio management
- Capital connection opportunities for mission-driven financial leaders to meet directly with capital partners to advance economic opportunity
- A Juneteenth closing celebration highlighting pathways to expanding capital access
“As the largest national gathering of Black-led CDFIs, this conference reflects the strength of our collective leadership and our shared commitment to move onward in advancing Black equity,” said Amber Banks, President & CEO of The Alliance. “This is our charge to lead with conviction and curate a space where strategy turns into action. Black-led CDFIs are on the frontlines of expanding access to capital and we are committed to ensuring they have the tools, partnerships, and resources needed to deepen their impact.”
Non-members and ecosystem partners interested in attending must submit an application for consideration.
At a time of continued economic uncertainty and systemic inequities, this conference comes at a pivotal moment to convene Black CDFI CEOs working to build stronger, more equitable systems.
For more information or to apply, visit here.
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About The African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs
The African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs (The Alliance) is a national coalition of 90+ CEOs of Black-led Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), comprising loan funds, credit unions, venture capital firms, and non-profit developers. Since 2018, The Alliance’s network collectively services all 50 states and the District of Columbia. As a result, members are uniquely positioned to address issues related to housing and access to capital for African American communities.
Learn more about The Alliance and its programs at http://www.aaacdfi.org.
Media Contact
Iyanna Peoples
Associate, Marketing & Communications
African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs
[email protected], (910) 518-9201
