We are a CDFI.

Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Certification is a designation the CDFI Fund gives to specialized organizations that provide financial services in low-income communities and to people who lack access to financing. CDFIs include regulated institutions like community development banks and credit unions and non-regulated institutions like loan and venture capital funds.

By building the capacity of a nationwide network of CDFIs, the CDFI Fund works to empower low-income and underserved people and communities to enter the financial mainstream. By putting the community first, we offer fair and affordable loans and financial products to facilitate access to financial opportunities and success.

In accordance with federal laws and U.S. Department of the Treasury policy, this organization is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write to: U.S. Department of the Treasury, Director, Office of Civil Rights and Equal Employment Opportunity 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20220; call (202) 622-1160; or send an e-mail to crcomplaints@treasury.gov.

Business Investments

UMEZ supports projects that provide new job creation as well as those that would be under-capitalized without our loan capital. Rather than competing with traditional lenders, we tend to augment (or “gap fund”) the level of private capital provided.

Cómo ayudamos.

Si tiene preguntas sobre los productos o servicios de UMEZ comuniquese con Moyram Espino en mespino@umez.org.

Cultural Investments

UMEZ has established the Cultural Investment Fund (CIF) to support nonprofit cultural organizations and artist-driven projects in Upper Manhattan. Our grants build administrative capacity, support organizational development, and promote sustainability. These investments lead to greater visitorship, new jobs, and increased economic activity, and foster recognition for Upper Manhattan as one of the City's most dynamic cultural hubs.

To learn more about the Upper Manhattan Arts Engagement (UMAE) funded by UMEZ and administered by LMCC,  click on this link. Please note the deadline for submission is Tuesday, September 10th, 2024 at 5PM.

Workforce Development

Our Workforce Development Initiative provides financial and technical assistance to catalyze employment and training in Upper Manhattan neighborhoods. Our goal is to facilitate access to quality jobs and career advancement opportunities for unemployed—and underemployed—residents.