Opportunity Zone Investing | Clearinghouse CDFI

Understanding Opportunity Zones

A Federal Framework for Long-Term, Place-Based Investment

Designated census tracts:
Opportunity Zones are specific census tracts designated by state and federal governments to encourage increased private investment.
Place-based investment incentive:
The program is designed to attract long-term capital to areas that have historically seen limited access to development financing.
Potential tax deferral:
Investors may be eligible to defer tax on certain qualified capital gains by investing through a qualified Opportunity Fund. Interested persons should first seek advice from their investment advisor.

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Clearinghouse CDFI's Director of Loan Production Annie Norwood at event for Opportunity Zone project with multiple other people blurred in background

WHY OPPORTUNITY ZONES MATTER

How Opportunity Zone Investments Generate Long-Term Value

Opportunity Zones are structured to encourage long-term investment by aligning incentives with extended holding periods. The program supports the development of real assets—such as housing, facilities, and operating businesses—that are rooted in place and tied to local economic activity. By design, Opportunity Zones prioritize sustained growth over short-term investment returns.

UNDERSTANDING OPPORTUNITY FUNDS

An Investment Vehicle for Qualified Opportunity Zone Capital

Defined investment structure:
An Opportunity Fund is a structured investment vehicle established to deploy capital in qualified Opportunity Zone census tracts.
90% investment requirement:
By regulation, Opportunity Funds are required to invest at least 90% of their assets in qualifying Opportunity Zone property or businesses.
Long-term investment alignment:
The Opportunity Fund structure is designed to support long-term investment strategies tied to real assets and place-based development.

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Why Work With Clearinghouse CDFI

A Disciplined Approach to Opportunity Zone Investing

Opportunity Zone investments require more than capital alone. They depend on clear structure and careful underwriting, with decisions that remain sound over time. Clearinghouse CDFI brings deep experience financing projects rooted in specific communities, focusing on how they are planned, financed, and carried forward.

Our role is to structure Opportunity Zone investments that are realistic and compliant from the start. We emphasize long-term performance rather than short-term outcomes.

Explore Our Broader Impact

TRACK RECORD

Select an Opportunity Zone Project

34 E Jackson: Phoenix, AZ

Overview Clearinghouse CDFI acquired a vacant commercial building in downtown Phoenix…

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Exterior of Nabi multi-family affordable housing building in Los Angeles

Nabi: Los Angeles, CA

Overview CCDFI’s first Opportunity Zone development to break ground and be completed…

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Alamo: San Antonio, TX

Overview Just two blocks from the historic Alamo, the revitalized Henry Terrell building…

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Who These Funds Are For

Who Can Benefit from Opportunity Zone Investing

Contact Our Fund Team

Developer sitting on excavator in Opportunity Zone project, representing Clearinghouse CDFI's Opportunity Zone offerings

New developers seeking
co-development and project management expertise

Construction view of Worthington Square, a mixed-use property that received a refinancing loan for its apartment and storefront spaces

Investors seeking tax advantaged, CRA-qualified opportunities

Woman and child sitting on ground smiling at one another, representing the communities Opportunity Zone projects through Clearinghouse CDFI help

Projects supporting housing, infrastructure, and job creation in designated Opportunity Zones

Construction crew in front of Opportunity Zone building project having conversations with each other

The Investment Framework

Opportunity Zone Investment Process Overview

Submit an inquiry

The process typically begins with an initial conversation. Investors reach out to share high-level information about their interests, timing, and general capital considerations. This helps determine whether there may be alignment with Clearinghouse CDFI’s Opportunity Zone activities.
Discuss potential opportunities

If there appears to be a fit, our team discusses relevant Opportunity Zone funds or projects. These conversations are meant to provide clarity around the opportunity, including how it may be structured and what considerations are involved, so investors can evaluate next steps.
Confirm terms and allocation

When both parties decide to move forward, investment terms and allocation details are finalized. This includes documentation, timing, and any applicable compliance requirements tied to the specific investment structure.
Ongoing Communication

After capital is deployed, Clearinghouse CDFI maintains communication with investors over the life of the investment. Updates are provided as appropriate based on the structure of the fund or project and the information available over time.

FAQs About Opportunity Zone Investments

Are Opportunity Zone investments grants or donations?

No. Opportunity Zone investments are capital investments that carry financial risk and return expectations. They are not grants, and outcomes are not guaranteed.

What types of projects qualify for Opportunity Zone investment?

Qualifying projects generally include real estate developments or operating businesses located within designated Opportunity Zones that meet applicable regulatory requirements.

How long must Opportunity Zone investments be held?

Opportunity Zone investments are designed for long-term holding periods. Program incentives are tied to extended ownership timelines rather than short-term investment horizons.

How does Clearinghouse CDFI evaluate Opportunity Zone investments?

Clearinghouse CDFI evaluates Opportunity Zone investments based on project feasibility, asset quality, sponsor capacity, and compliance readiness. Financial viability is assessed alongside broader project considerations over the life of the investment.

What role does real estate play in Opportunity Zone investments?

Many Opportunity Zone investments are tied to real assets, such as real estate or facilities, that support long-term value and regulatory compliance. These assets also provide a durable foundation for operating projects over extended holding periods.