Join us for an insightful exploration into Project Financing with a focus on New Markets Tax Credits (NMTCs). Our professionals will guide you through the intricate landscape of project financing when utilizing NMTCs, a powerful tool for generating capital in underserved communities. While NMTCs are a critical resource, they are just one of many tools available. We will also touch on complementary programs often used alongside NMTCs to create impactful, financially sustainable projects.

Cherry Bekaert’s knowledgeable team will provide a comprehensive overview of structuring projects to qualify for NMTCs while focusing on the essential strategies for aligning projects with NMTC criteria. Participants will gain valuable insights into the latest trends and best practices, equipping them to navigate the complexities of NMTC project financing with confidence.

Session #1 Learning Objectives:

• Gain a thorough understanding of how NMTCs can be leveraged to finance impactful projects.
• Learn to identify and structure projects that are attractive to CDEs and NMTC investors.
• Explore the roles and relationships among key stakeholders in an NMTC financing arrangement.
• Master the steps involved in the funding process, from project inception to securing NMTC financing.
• Understand how other programs, such as Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), Historic Tax Credits (HTC), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) financing, and state and local incentives, can complement NMTCs in layered financing structures.

Session #1 Total CPE Hours: 1

Dive into the world of Community Development Entities (CDEs) and their pivotal role in the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) ecosystem in our upcoming webinar. Our professionals will take an in-depth look at how CDEs operate within the NMTC framework to foster economic growth in underserved areas. Attain awareness into the strategic approaches CDEs use to select and support projects that align with their missions and community impact goals.

Learn about the nuances of working with CDEs, including project selection criteria, partnership dynamics and long-term community benefits.

Session #2 Learning Objectives:

• Understand the role and objectives of CDEs in the NMTC program.
• Explore how CDEs select projects and engage with stakeholders to maximize community impact.
• Learn about the intricacies of partnership dynamics between CDEs and project sponsors.
• Gain insights from a real-world example of successful collaboration on an NMTC-funded project.

Session #2 Total CPE Hours: 1

Note: Session content will remain flexible to incorporate timely updates and evolving market conditions.

Become forward-thinking on next steps in community development with this session, where we will explore the strategic actions organizations can take to elevate their impact in communities. Our professionals will delve into a comprehensive approach to assessing organizational strengths and weaknesses, setting strategic goals and charting an efficient path for growth and mission fulfillment.

We will focus on building robust foundations for community development, including leveraging tools such as New Markets Tax Credits (NMTCs) and other funding mechanisms. Participants will gain insights into identifying key organizational assets, developing strategic visions and implementing actionable steps to enhance community impact. Additionally, the session will cover how organizations can position themselves effectively as Community Development Entities (CDEs) and financial institutions to access greater opportunities for growth and community engagement.

Session #3 Learning Objectives:

• Conduct a thorough assessment of organizational strengths and opportunities for growth.
• Explore strategies for becoming a successful CDE and Financial Institution.
• Develop a roadmap for strategic growth and enhanced community impact using available funding resources.

Session #3 Total CPE Hours: 1

Note: Session content will remain flexible to incorporate timely updates and evolving market conditions.

Learn about the importance of application writing for New Markets Tax Credits (NMTCs). Cherry Bekaert’s team members will give an overview of the application process, equipping participants with the foundational knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of NMTC application writing, compliance and reporting. As the guiding document for a Community Development Entity (CDE), the NMTC application serves as a roadmap for executing the CDE's goals and objectives.

We will explore the intricacies of application writing, including the deployment of allocations, compliance requirements, and the management of NMTC investments. The session aims to help organizations streamline their application process and maintain successful capital deployment, setting the stage for further detailed instruction once a new director is appointed.

Session #4 Learning Objectives:

• Understand how the NMTC application informs a CDE’s allocation agreement.
• Explore the parameters surrounding the deployment of NMTC allocations.
• Gain insights into CDFI compliance and reporting, including community outcomes tracking.
• Learn the steps involved in managing NMTC investments.

Session #4 Total CPE Hours: 1