How Banks Invest in Community Development

 Did you know that banks have a legal obligation to invest in the communities they serve? And what does that actually mean for your organization or the work you do? This course provides a foundational overview of the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and how it drives community development. Participants will learn how the CRA ensures that banks meet the credit needs of their communities, particularly low- and moderate-income areas, while maintaining safe and sound banking practices. The course also introduces how organizations can begin positioning themselves to connect with these opportunities and build meaningful partnerships with financial institutions. The course explores the core components of community development under the CRA, including affordable housing, community services, economic development, and neighborhood revitalization. Participants will gain insight into the types of activities that qualify for CRA consideration and how these efforts support stronger, more equitable communities. In addition, the course clarifies the roles of banks, credit unions, and foundations, helping participants understand where opportunities for funding and partnership may exist. It also introduces the federal regulators responsible for overseeing CRA compliance and explains how banks are evaluated across lending, investment, and service activities. Finally, participants will learn practical steps for engaging financial institutions, including how to identify alignment, understand funding cycles, and position their organization for meaningful partnerships. By the end of the course, participants will have a clear understanding of how the CRA works and how to begin connecting their work to community development opportunities within the financial sector.