Join the Class of 2025 Franzini Fellows as they explore how blended capital models can be leveraged to revitalize under-resourced commercial corridors in ways that are equitable, resilient, and replicable. Drawing from their fellowship capstone research project, this webinar will examine financing structures that successfully attract long-term investment while delivering measurable community benefits by creatively layering public, private, and philanthropic capital.

Participants will gain insights from comparative case studies and interviews with investors, developers, and community leaders, with a particular focus on small- to mid-scale neighborhood anchor projects. The discussion highlights what makes capital stack strategies durable and impactful, and how these models can be adapted across different communities and market contexts. The final fifteen minutes will be dedicated to the 2026 Fellowship Class, including eligibility and application deadlines.

Designed for development finance professionals, city leaders, CDFIs, and philanthropic investors, this webinar will address the persistent gap between capital access and long-term economic inclusion and offer recommendations for aligning investment design with durable, community-centered outcomes.

Moderator: Charity Karanja, Attorney, Butler Snow

Speakers:

Gabriela Castillo, Coordinator, City of Dallas
Katie Littman, Deputy Director, Louisville Metro Government
Sarah Ortner, Senior Associate, Milken Institute
Fariha Sheikh

Proceeds from this webinar will support the CDFA Foundation.

Click here for more information about the 2026 Franzini Fellowship. Applications are open and due by March 13th at 5pm, EST.

Group Rate
A group rate of $100 is available for 10+ people. Perfect for an office viewing party, or for those wishing to make a generous contribution to the Foundation.

Reach out to CDFA at info@cdfa.net for more information.

Standard Rates CDFA Member: $20 Non-Member: $25

Register