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A Look at OFN42: Honoring Leaders in Community Development Finance

On October 22, 2026, the Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) hosted its annual conference known as OFN42, a significant gathering that brings together the nation’s foremost leaders in community development finance. Held in the vibrant city of New Orleans, this event emphasized the continued efforts in expanding economic opportunities through community development financial institutions (CDFIs).

Opportunity Honors: A Celebration of Impact

The Opportunity Honors, a highlight of the event, recognizes those who are making a tangible difference in underserved communities. As the leading investment intermediary for CDFIs in the United States, OFN aims to acknowledge individuals and organizations dedicated to enhancing community development finance.

Harold Pettigrew, the President and CEO of OFN, underscored the shared vision of this year’s honorees. He stated, “What connects this year's honorees is not the geography they serve or the institutions they lead. It is a shared belief that communities deserve the tools, capital, and support needed to shape their own futures.” Underlining OFN's commitment, the awards celebrate the leaders whose innovative approaches are instrumental in generating opportunity across the nation.

Notable Award Recipients

The awards presented at the event showcased a variety of influential organizations and individuals who have left a mark on the CDFI landscape:

• - Oweesta Corporation from Colorado was awarded the Adina Abramowitz Impact Award for Organizational Growth and Change. This award honors organizations exemplifying transformational growth principles, reflecting the legacy of Adina Abramowitz, a trailblazer in community development who passed away in 2023.
• - The Philadelphia Accelerator Fund received the Emerging Growth CDFI Award, recognizing its outstanding growth and commitment to serving its community over the past three years.
• - South Dakota’s Four Bands Community Fund was the recipient of the Native CDFI Leadership Award, which acknowledges their exemplary leadership within Native communities.
• - Individual awards were given out as well. Marla Bilonick, the CEO of the National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders (NALCAB), received the Executive Leadership Award for her visionary leadership promoting capital flow into low-income communities.
• - Finally, the Small Business Leader of the Year Award was presented to Tate Hill, CEO of Access Plus Capital in California, for his impactful vision and dedication to fostering economic growth through community development finance.

The Role of OFN in Community Development

Established in 1986, Opportunity Finance Network plays a pivotal role in connecting community development resources with underserved populations. OFN manages more than $1 billion in assets and supports nearly 500 CDFIs. These financial institutions facilitate access to affordable and responsible financial products and services, prioritizing support for rural, urban, and Native communities.

Over the past 40 years, OFN's network of CDFIs has made a significant impact, originating over $136 billion in cumulative financing. This has resulted in the creation or maintenance of nearly 3.8 million jobs and the support of approximately 1.2 million businesses.

At OFN42, the communal spirit of the organization was palpable, with attendees sharing success stories and strategies for promoting economic fairness. The commitment to ensuring that all communities have the resources needed to thrive remains a cornerstone of OFN’s mission.

Looking Ahead

The event's uplifting message serves as a reminder that despite the challenges faced by underserved communities, there is hope and dedication among those committed to making a difference. As the community development finance sector continues to evolve, gatherings like OFN42 help to reinforce the need for collaboration and innovative solutions.

As we look toward future endeavors, it is essential to recognize the invaluable contributions made by these leaders and strive for a more inclusive financial ecosystem that empowers every community.

Conclusion

Event like OFN42 showcases the spirit of collaboration within the CDFI sector and the power of community-driven finance to affect change. The celebration of achievements at this year’s event not only honors those who have made significant strides but also inspires other organizations and individuals to engage in this essential work.

Learn more about the Opportunity Finance Network and the inspiring stories shared at OFN42, as well as the ongoing commitment to fostering economic opportunities nationwide.