Local Initiatives Support Corporation

C-FACTS' Collaboration with Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)

Introduction: C-FACTS has been an instrumental partner for Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) since 2017, assisting numerous LISC local offices with strategic planning and alignment. Their emphasis on embedding Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ) principles has been pivotal in ensuring that LISC's strategies are comprehensive and inclusive.

Key Contributions:

  1. Strategic Planning Across Multiple Locations:

    • Assisted in crafting strategic plans for LISC local offices in multiple cities, including Toledo, Flint, Indianapolis, and several others.
    • Currently aiding Charlotte LISC in devising its inaugural strategic plan.

  2. Alignment with National LISC's Vision:

    • Tasked by National LISC to create a strategic planning framework that resonates with the overarching vision and mission, ensuring consistency across all local sites.

  3. Incorporation of DEIJ Principles:

    • Emphasized the integration of DEIJ principles into LISC's operations and strategies.
    • Promoted initiatives that cater to the specific needs of local LISC sites, especially in providing access to capital for communities and developers of color.

  4. Focus on Affordable Housing and Economic Growth:

    • Developed strategies to both increase and preserve affordable housing.
    • Emphasized wealth creation, equity-building for residents, enhancement of commercial spaces, and support for small businesses.

  5. LISC's Shift towards Small Business Lending:

    • Aided LISC in navigating new challenges and harnessing opportunities presented by their renewed focus on small business lending and economic development.
    • Structured capital investment funds that pool resources from philanthropic, private, and governmental entities, thereby providing capital for real estate development and reducing financial risks.

  6. Partnership with DEIJ Experts:

    • Collaborated with LISC DEIJ specialists when shaping investment strategies, ensuring a holistic approach.
    • Fostered partnerships with anchor institutions like hospitals to align community development goals with the broader social determinants of health.

  7. Impact on Minority Investments:

    • As a result of C-FACTS' guidance, LISC has significantly amplified its investments in minority-run businesses and developers.
    • Championed the importance of bolstering homeownership rates among people of color.

Conclusion: C-FACTS has been an invaluable ally to LISC, steering them towards a future characterized by inclusivity, community-driven development, and economic growth. By anchoring their strategies in DEIJ principles and forming synergies with local institutions, C-FACTS has enriched LISC's approach to community development, driving measurable impacts across multiple regions.