ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the role community development financial institutions (CDFIs) 1 play in supporting the growth of public charter schools, one of the most significant education reforms in decades. CDFIs are financial institutions whose primary mission is to provide capital and development services to meet the needs of low-income people and communities. CDFIs fill market niches underserved by traditional banks and investors. Charter schools are publicly funded but operate independently of school districts. They receive funding for operations but usually are not provided a facility and must find and finance one on their own.
