I have seen firsthand how the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) program serves as a powerful tool for driving private investment into areas that are often overlooked by traditional financing—particularly those that are severely and deeply distressed. NMTC financing doesn’t just bring capital into these communities; it catalyzes broader private-sector investment and job creation that reverberates long after the initial project is complete. Central States Development Partners, Inc., a certified Community Development Entity (CDE), has actively deployed federal NMTC allocations to spur meaningful, community-driven development across the country. Our investments have supported high-impact projects that bring jobs, services, and revitalization to neighborhoods most in need. To date, Central States has made the following NMTC investments by state: Illinois: $124.9 million Iowa: $6.9 million Indiana: $20 million Missouri: $825,000 Kansas: $13.6 million Colorado: $5 million Nevada: $17.7 million California: $25 million Washington: $6 million Texas: $16 million Louisiana: $16 million Georgia: $16 million Florida: $23 million These targeted investments demonstrate our commitment to advancing economic opportunity and creating lasting impact in some of the nation’s most distressed communities. Continued support of the CDFI Fund and the NMTC program is essential to increasing American jobs, supporting and increasing manufacturing, community facilities, and increased access to healthcare facilities.