The 2026 OFN Conference
At a time when our nation needs proven solutions for job creation, affordable housing, disaster recovery, small business growth, and closing persistent gaps in capital access, CDFIs are delivering.
For more than four decades, the community development finance industry has directed capital where it matters most—in rural, urban, and Native communities—fueling economic growth and strengthening neighborhoods across the country. The results speak for themselves: businesses launched, homes built, jobs created, and communities that prove what happens when America invests in itself.
And we’re not slowing down.
From October 20–23, more than 2,100 CDFI practitioners, investors, funders, policymakers, and partners will gather in New Orleans—a city that knows what determined, community-rooted capital can rebuild—for OFN’s 42nd Annual Conference. This year’s theme, Opportunity Next, builds on the foundation of the last four decades and charts what comes next for our industry: new capital solutions, expanded access, and leadership ready to scale what works.
Through thought-provoking plenaries, breakout sessions, training, and tours of CDFI impact in the Gulf region, we’ll explore what’s working, what’s evolving, and how we scale impact—together.
Looking for detailed information on the agenda, trainings, registration fees and more? Access the full site menu by clicking on the button with three bars at the top right of this page next to "Register Now."
Please note the attendee list is only visible to registered event participants to protect attendees from scams.
What to Expect
Over the course of four days, OFN42 offers something for everyone: three plenaries featuring distinguished leaders from the public and private sectors; more than 100 breakout sessions across 14 tracks; over 30 curated networking sessions organized by role, geography, and sector; eight interactive tours showcasing CDFI impact across New Orleans; five hands-on training opportunities for deeper learning; an Expo with 30+ exhibitors; evening programming including Connecting Across Career Stages: Building the CDFI Leadership Community and the Opportunity Honors Award Ceremony and Reception; wellness activities, and much more.
We’ll kick off activities on the evening of Tuesday, October 20, with our Welcome Reception & Block Party. Attendees can also join us earlier in the day for optional pre-conference activities such as the Native Gathering Day, the third annual CDFI Research Symposium, OFN trainings, and CDFI in Action tours.
Programming throughout the week will follow curated daily themes to help attendees engage more intentionally. Explore our day-by-day overview of the agenda and featured programming on the What to Expect page.
Training Opportunities
Deepen your learning by attending optional in-person trainings on Tuesday, October 20. Topics include CDFI 101 and Generative AI 101, as well as full-day workshops on Financial Planning and CDFI Capitalization.
Opportunity Honors Awards
Celebrate the individuals and organizations recognized for their excellence in leadership, innovation, and impact across the CDFI industry during the Opportunity Honors: Award Ceremony and Reception on Thursday, October 22.
CDFIs in Action Tours
One of the most popular experiences of the OFN conference! Led by locally based CDFIs, this year’s eight tours showcase the impactful work of OFN members across the dynamic neighborhoods of New Orleans.
Details
Venue
OFN42 programming will take place at the Marriott and the Sheraton New Orleans, directly across from each other on Canal Street. Visit the Know Before You Go page for more details.
Hotel Block
You can reserve a room within OFN’s discounted room blocks at either the New Orleans Marriott or the Sheraton New Orleans.
Visit the Know Before You Go page for more information.
Have Questions?
We’re here to help! Our team is available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Please allow 48 business hours for a response as we are experiencing a high volume of requests and inquiries.
Coming to the OFN Conference for the first time?
Check out the 2025 Conference Recap to experience some of our favorite moments from last year's event!
Unsure of where to start? Explore our curated session recommendations for those new to the CDFI industry, as well as practitioners at new and emerging CDFIs. Visit the First-Time Attendees page to begin planning your conference experience.
Scholarship Opportunity for First-Time Attendees
As part of our commitment to strengthening and expanding the CDFI industry, OFN is pleased to offer a limited number of registration scholarships for first-time conference attendees affiliated with OFN member organizations. These scholarships cover the cost of registration and are designed to increase access to the valuable learning, networking, and inspiration the OFN Conference provides.
Applications are due by Friday, September 18.
Media Interest
Complimentary registration is available to a limited number of journalists with valid press credentials. To apply for a media pass, please email bprade@OFN.org with your name, title, and media outlet. Requests sent to other email addresses may not be received. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until Friday, September 18. If selected for a media pass, you will receive instructions on how to register.
Our Sponsors
Exhibitor & Sponsorship Opportunities
Interested in showcasing your organization’s tools, services, and expertise to a highly engaged audience of mission-driven small business lenders? Contact our team at fundraising@ofn.org to explore expo and sponsorship opportunities.