Difference Makers

Difference Makers is a podcast series from the Native CDFI Network and Tribal Business News that explores how Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) are reshaping the future of tribal economies — one loan, one partnership, one bold idea at a time.

Podcasting since 2024 • 28 episodes

Difference Makers

Latest Episodes

Why Only Three?

California is home to the largest Native population in the United States and 109 federally recognized tribes. Yet only three Native CDFIs currently operate in the state.Recorded during and after the 2026 California CDFI Summit in ...

June 18, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 7 • 25:48

The Treasurer Visits Blackfeet

U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach recently traveled to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Browning, Montana, for his first trip to Montana since taking office — part of a broader swing through Indian Country that also included visits to the Flat...

May 21, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 6 • 21:34

The Next Builders

There are about 65 certified Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) in the United States — roughly the same number as a decade ago.But that’s starting to change.In Episode 5 of Difference Makers ...

May 04, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 5 • 19:18

The Flour Mill

Large-scale economic development deals in Indian Country are typically financed through complex capital stacks — combining banks, tax credits and outside investors — with Native CDFIs often left out.That may be starting to change....

March 26, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 4 • 34:52

Philanthropy’s Blind Spot

Native communities receive less than one-half of 1% of philanthropic funding in the United States — roughly four or five dollars for every thousand dollars foundations give away.In Episode 3 of Difference Makers 3.0, Bria...

March 12, 2026 • Season 3 • Episode 3 • 31:51

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