Join us for the 2025 CDFA Federal Policy Conference, presented with CHFA, on April 15-16 to discuss topics that are important to you and directly impact the development finance work you're doing. Save $100 when you register by March 31! This is your chance to save on registration fees and secure your spot at one of the premier federal policy events in our industry. Reserve your seat at this important meeting of the minds, and help us turn uncertainty into opportunity.

Municipal and corporate bond issuers are experiencing one of the busiest periods since before the Great Recession, driven by uncertainty around the new administration's fiscal and regulatory agenda and concerns about interest rate stability. Governments and nonprofits are capitalizing on this window to fund infrastructure, housing, and economic development projects. The issuance boom reflects pent-up demand and strategic positioning amid a new federal landscape that may reprioritize spending and tax incentives. Investor demand remains robust, offering favorable conditions for community development leaders seeking to finance long-term, mission-driven initiatives. However, with future market conditions uncertain, professionals in the development finance space are being urged to move quickly and structure deals with flexibility in mind.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) plans to cut more than 40 percent of its workforce amid an agency-wide restructuring. The agency will cut about 2,700 positions out of its workforce of nearly 6,500 employees, reverting to staffing levels from the first Trump administration, SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler said. Certain accountability roles will be exempt from the reductions, including the Office of Advocacy and the Office of the Inspector General

CDFA congratulates Christopher Smith, Assistant Professor of Economic Development for the University of Southern Mississippi (USM), on graduating from the Development Finance Certified Professional (DFCP) program. Mr. Smith conducts research and teaching in the areas of real estate development and land-use planning; entrepreneurship and technology-based development; and regional economic development strategy and planning.

Despite political uncertainty, the global ESG bond market remains strong, with U.S. agencies like Fannie Mae leading issuance. In 2023, ESG bond issuance reached $869 billion, and while growth may slow, demand stays steady, particularly for bonds tied to outcomes like affordable housing and public health. U.S. issuers accounted for nearly one-third of global ESG debt, highlighting the market's momentum driven by capital markets, not federal policy. Development finance professionals should recognize the growing role of ESG bonds in funding community infrastructure, clean energy, and social equity. Strong metrics and credibility are essential due to increasing scrutiny on ESG definitions.

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