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Clearinghouse CDFI Sponsors 2025 AHEAD Economic Development Grant Program

Clearinghouse CDFI Logo - $35 million equity recap

Three AHEAD awards totaling $400,000 strengthen youth, housing, and cultural programs in Tribal communities across Arizona and California.


Lake Forest, CA – October 2025: Clearinghouse CDFI is sponsoring three projects through the 2025 AHEAD Economic Development Grant Program, delivering $400,000 in total AHEAD funding to community partners serving Native youth, housing, and cultural programs across Arizona and California. These awards reflect our commitment to practical solutions that build local capacity and open real paths to opportunity.

Administered by the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, AHEAD grants back innovative efforts that expand proven development models or test new approaches for low- to moderate-income communities. Applications are submitted by FHLBank member institutions; funds are awarded competitively; disbursements follow in the same calendar year. Learn more and see recent award lists on FHLBank San Francisco’s site.

As an FHLBank San Francisco member institution, Clearinghouse CDFI serves as a sponsor to community organizations applying for AHEAD funding. These grants are awarded and funded directly by FHLBank San Francisco, with member institutions acting as facilitators for distribution.

Douglas Bystry headshot, smiling man in suit jacket against plain background“These grants do more than fund projects; they move people forward,” said Douglas Bystry, Founder, President & CEO of Clearinghouse CDFI. “We’re proud to help connect FHLBank San Francisco’s resources with the local organizations driving real, lasting impact in their communities.”

Pala Band of Mission Indians logo featuring mission-style architecture, representing a 2025 AHEAD Economic Development Grant Program sponsor.Recipient: PALA Youth Empowerment Initiative Program

Sponsor: Pala Band of Mission Indians (Pala, CA)
Grant Award: $150,000
Project Type: Capacity Building
What’s advancing:

  • Life-skills support for Native youth ages 12–24 (financial literacy, GED prep, driver’s education, job application help, after-school tutoring).
  • Field experiences that build confidence and connection beyond the reservation.

Use of AHEAD funds: Retain one full-time youth program role and cover supplies and activities.
Learn more: Pala Band of Mission Indians (official site)

Red Feather Development Group logo featuring a stylized turquoise bird within a circular frame, symbolizing Indigenous housing partnership.Recipient: Healing Homes—A Housing & Health Education Initiative

Sponsor: Red Feather Development Group (Flagstaff, AZ)
Grant Award: $150,000
Project Type: Housing Initiative
What’s advancing:

  • Hands-on DIY repair and pro-skills workshops with certifiable training in energy-efficient repair and construction.
  • Workforce preparation for Tribal contractors to address gaps in housing rehabilitation and efficiency.

Use of AHEAD funds: Nine workshops and partial salary support for an Education Program Manager.
Learn more: Red Feather (Hopi Tribe) | Red Feather (Navajo Nation)

Artwork associated with NAOMI House showing a youth figure over a Navajo Nation–style seal with “NAOMI House” wordmark.Recipient: Cultural Continuity & Career Readiness for Aging-Out Youth

Sponsor: Native American Outreach Ministries, Inc. (NAOMI) – Joseph City, AZ
Grant Award: $100,000
Project Type: Social Services
What’s advancing:

  • Cultural enrichment and community connection for youth transitioning from foster care.
  • Digital literacy and online learning resources that support education and job readiness.

Use of AHEAD funds: Program equipment, supplies, and travel.
Related CCDFI financing: NAOMI impact story
Video: NAOMI House on YouTube
Instagram: NaomiHouseAZ

Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco - logoAbout AHEAD (Program Overview)

AHEAD (Access to Housing and Economic Assistance for Development) helps members and their community partners create economic opportunity by backing early-stage, results-oriented projects. Eligible sponsors include nonprofit organizations, local government agencies, and Tribal associations in Arizona, California, and Nevada. Applications are typically accepted in April–May, recipients announced in September, and funds disbursed before year-end. Program details and award lists are available from FHLBank San Francisco.

Thank You to Our Partners

We’re proud to support these community-driven efforts and grateful to the FHLBank San Francisco network for a program that helps local plans become practical outcomes.

About Clearinghouse Community Development Financial Institution (Clearinghouse CDFI):

Clearinghouse CDFI is a mission-driven lender that finances projects in low-income and capital-limited communities across the U.S. and Indian Country.. Since 1996, we’ve delivered over $2.7 billion in loans to more than 2,700 community-focused projects—supporting over 43,800 jobs, creating or preserving 13,500 units of affordable housing, and directly benefiting 5.1 million people.

With 25 consecutive years of profitability, Clearinghouse CDFI combines mission with financial strength—delivering impactful returns for investors and measurable outcomes for low-income areas and communities with limited access to capital.

A certified B Corporation, we meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. We believe responsible capital can strengthen communities and deliver results that matter. Learn more at www.ccdfi.com.

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Media Contact:
A. Smith, Director of Marketing
Clearinghouse CDFI
Phone: 949-528-3287
Email: news@ccdfi.com

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