The Rhode Island Health and Educational Building Corporation has sold $3.1 million of bonds on behalf of the Paul Cuffee School. The 20-year bonds, backed by the school's general revenue, carry a 4.43% interest rate and were sold via private negotiations to Bank Rhode Island on Nov. 15.

Anchorage, Alaska, received two rating downgrades ahead of plans to sell $105 million in general obligation bonds competitively on Dec. 6. Fitch Ratings downgraded the city's issuer default rating to AA from AA-plus and S&P Global Ratings downgraded the city to AA from AA-plus.

One of the goals of the IIJA is to foster an equitable economy by investing in historically underserved and under-resourced communities. Infrastructure challenges in these areas range from public transportation to digital access to online information. Speakers on this final installation will cover the variety of problems experienced across different communities - including those in urban, mid-sized, rural, and tribal communities - to discuss how IIJA funds can best be deployed.

The historic Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) will lead to increased energy efficiency and renewable energy projects throughout all market segments. The financial incentives that will be available in 2023 and beyond will make energy efficiency upgrades and solar power a true "no brainer." This webinar will focus on the commercial, industrial, agricultural, and non-profit sectors, with a panel of experts discussing how to access the financial incentives and highlighting specific project examples.

This session will highlight the resources available at the U.S. Department of the Treasury and Small Business Administration to finance economic growth in distressed communities. Featured programs include the State Small Business Credit Initiative, the CDFI Fund, New Market Tax Credits, and other small business financing programs like SBA 504 and 7a.