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The National Clean Investment Fund (NCIF) is a vital part of the federal government’s plan to mobilize significant financing for clean energy and technology projects across the U.S. With $14 billion allocated to the program, the NCIF supports three primary recipients, each tasked with establishing a national clean financing institution to make clean energy more accessible and affordable. These recipients are collaborating with private investors, community groups, and other stakeholders to deliver projects that bring economic, environmental, and social benefits to millions of Americans, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged communities.
Each recipient organization is dedicated to using a minimum of 40% of its capital to benefit communities historically underserved by traditional financing. Below is an overview of each NCIF recipient, detailing their mission, funding allocation, and program focus.
Climate United Fund (CUF)
Award Amount: $6,970,000,000
Program Focus
Climate United Fund (CUF) is a national coalition dedicated to accelerating the clean energy transition by providing affordable financing for clean technology projects. CUF partners with organizations like Calvert Impact, Community Preservation Corporation, and Self-Help Ventures Fund, all of which have a strong track record in sustainable investments.
Program Initiatives
CUF will originate, aggregate, and standardize financial products to support a range of projects, from energy-efficient home upgrades to community solar installations and electric vehicle infrastructure. This coalition has built a comprehensive pipeline of projects across seven sectors: individual consumers, multi-family housing, community infrastructure, small businesses and farms, schools, minority-serving institutions, community solar, and EV infrastructure. CUF is particularly committed to ensuring that at least 60% of its investments reach low-income and disadvantaged communities, 20% support rural communities, and 10% serve Tribal communities.
National Reach
CUF’s partnerships span all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Tribal Lands, ensuring nationwide access to affordable capital for clean energy projects. With hundreds of local, regional, and national partners, CUF is prepared to deploy resources effectively and foster sustainable, long-term economic growth in clean energy.
Coalition for Green Capital (CGC)
Award Amount: $5,000,000,000
Program Focus
With over 15 years of experience, the Coalition for Green Capital (CGC) is tasked with creating the U.S.’s first national green bank. CGC aims to support state, local, and nonprofit green banks by developing a network of green lenders nationwide. This green bank model will promote affordable financing options for clean energy projects, targeting underserved communities through loans, guarantees, and equity investments.
Investment Strategy
CGC’s approach involves offering standardized financial products and recycling capital to make financing accessible across low-income, rural, and Tribal communities. With at least 50% of its investments designated for disadvantaged communities, CGC will channel funds into various sectors, supporting clean energy projects, community infrastructure, and other climate-aligned investments.
Network Development
CGC will build a national network of lenders, including green banks, Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), Community Development Credit Unions (CDCUs), and other community-based financial partners. This network aims to foster clean power investments and help communities achieve sustainable development goals.
Power Forward Communities (PFC)
Award Amount: $2,000,000,000
Program Focus
Power Forward Communities (PFC) is a coalition of leading organizations in housing, climate, and community investment, dedicated to decarbonizing American housing. Organized by Enterprise Community Partners, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), United Way, Habitat for Humanity, and Rewiring America, PFC aims to make clean energy financing accessible and affordable for single-family and multi-family housing developers and homeowners.
Community Impact
With an emphasis on affordability and resilience, PFC’s financing program will help homeowners and renters access capital for electrification and energy-efficient upgrades. The program also focuses on job creation, community reinvestment, and decarbonizing the housing sector. PFC’s projects will expand the availability of clean technology and reduce utility costs for families nationwide.
Key Goals
Beyond financing, PFC’s work will lead to healthier, safer homes, the preservation and expansion of affordable rental housing, and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. With decades of combined experience in community finance, the PFC coalition will leverage its national reach to create long-lasting, positive change in communities across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Why the National Clean Investment Fund Matters
The NCIF represents a strategic approach to bridging the gap in clean energy financing, with the potential to transform the U.S. energy landscape. By supporting projects that reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and increase renewable energy adoption, the NCIF not only helps meet national climate goals but also fosters economic and social benefits for disadvantaged communities. Key outcomes include:
Energy Bill Savings
By funding projects that improve energy efficiency and increase renewable energy access, the NCIF helps families and businesses save on energy costs.
Environmental Health
Cleaner air and reduced pollution result from clean energy adoption, benefiting public health and quality of life.
Job Creation
Green energy projects funded by the NCIF support employment in clean technology, construction, and community engagement sectors.
Community Empowerment
By channeling investments into low-income and disadvantaged areas, the NCIF empowers these communities to build a sustainable future.
In summary, the National Clean Investment Fund provides essential support for America’s transition to a clean energy economy. By partnering with established organizations, the NCIF ensures that communities of all sizes and socioeconomic backgrounds can access affordable, sustainable financing options, driving forward a cleaner, more equitable future for all.
