Block by Block is a solutions journalism series that is supported by IFF, CEDAM and Invest Detroit, and is focused on community development leaders and initiatives in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana.
Detroit CDFI Coalition members continue to collaborate together, and advocate collectively for consistent Michigan CDFI funding to further propel their impactful mission-driven work in communities.
Cody Ley, a past CEDAM real estate development boot camp participant, is passionate about creating affordable, sustainable housing using hempcrete — a resilient, energy-efficient material. Through his nonprofit, Hemp 4 Humanity, he hopes to empower and connect communities to promote a circular economy.
A new private-partnership between the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) and the City of Detroit — Detroit Capital Hub — serves as a matching program introducing small businesses to the lender best able to serve them.
Predevelopment assistance provides local real estate entrepreneurs with a pathway to community investment and growth.
CDFIs like ProsperUs and Invest Detroit have a passionate commitment to uplifting neighborhoods in the city. Their latest investments have helped two new stores carry on the legacy of the Livernois McNichols corridor’s small business ecosystem.
CEDAM's second Rural Real Estate Boot Camp highlights the importance of collaboration among developers, municipal leaders, and state agencies for successful housing development.
The Investing in America Child Care Partnership is addressing the national child care supply crisis by fostering collaboration among public and private funders, government agencies, employers, and child care providers.
With fair financing, non-predatory loans, and strong community ties, credit unions create empowerment and ownership for their members.
IFF, a Community Development Financial Institution, empowers underserved communities through flexible, nontraditional lending. By supporting organizations like Family Promise and Detroit Phoenix Center, IFF is helping prevent displacement, expand services, and break down barriers. Their unique, mission-driven approach enables organizations to support more people and create lasting, positive community impact.
For more than 35 years, Christi Coady Narayanan led the transformative work of the Opportunity Resource Fund (OppFund), as the President and CEO of the nonprofit community development financial institution. She retired last month, passing the torch to the new President and CEO Byna Elliott, to continue the organization’s unwavering commitment and innovation in empowering individuals, businesses, and communities all over the state.
Our Partners
