Clearinghouse CDFI is a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and Benefit Corporation that operates as a community lender across the United States and Indian Country. Founded to address unmet credit needs in underserved markets, the organization combines traditional lending infrastructure with a social mission focus.
The organization offers direct lending programs across multiple sectors including affordable housing, commercial real estate, community facilities, small business, and New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) financing. Loan sizes range significantly—from $734,000 for affordable housing preservation to $10 million in NMTC allocation for food-as-medicine providers. They serve nonprofits, social enterprises, community developers, and small businesses driving community impact.
Clearinghouse CDFI distinguishes itself through its B Corporation certification, demonstrated community impact (evidenced by specific projects like Cristo Rey Fort Worth's STEAM center expansion and Lower Brule Grocery Store development), institutional investor relationships with major banks like Fifth Third, and Treasury program participation including bond issuance. Their marketing emphasizes borrower stories and measurable community outcomes rather than consumer convenience.
As a CDFI, this organization targets institutional and mission-aligned borrowers rather than individual consumers seeking emergency or alternative credit. While mission-driven and impact-focused, their lending products are designed for organizational development, not personal financial emergencies. The website provides limited transparency on interest rates, APRs, or standard terms for individual borrowers.
