California is home to the largest Native population in the United States and 109 federally recognized tribes. Yet only three Native CDFIs currently operate in the state.

Recorded during and after the 2026 California CDFI Summit in Sacramento, this episode explores the effort to strengthen existing Native CDFIs, support the creation of new Native-led financial institutions and expand access to capital in Native communities throughout California.

Guests and voices in this episode:

• Nate Schaffran, California Coalition for Community Investment (CalCCI)
• Teresa Boardman, Five Rivers Loan Fund, Inc.
• Pete Upton, Native CDFI Network
• Jodi Fischer, Native CDFI Network
• Jessica Kaczmarek, The James Irvine Foundation

Resources and Links

Native CDFI Network
https://nativecdfi.net

RISE Initiative (Native CDFI Network)
https://nativecdfi.net/rise

California Coalition for Community Investment
https://www.calcii.org

Five Rivers Loan Fund
https://www.fiveriversloanfund.org

The James Irvine Foundation
https://www.irvine.org

Tribal Business News
https://tribalbusinessnews.com

Difference Makers explores how Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) are expanding economic opportunity across Indian Country. From small business lending and homeownership to consumer loans, financial education, and technical assistance, Native CDFIs provide the capital and support that help Native communities build stronger local economies.

Join the Native CDFI Network and Tribal Business News as they spotlight the people, partnerships, and ideas driving economic change in Native communities.