PROGRAM-RELATED INVESTMENTS (PRIs)
A Strategic Tool for Economic Growth in Arkansas
Program-related investments (PRIs) are mission-driven investments that support financial tools—like loans and guarantees—to advance equity alongside grants. WRF utilizes PRIs to expand access to capital for communities that are often excluded from traditional finance. We invest in Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), and other trusted organizations that help build wealth, grow businesses, and create more just economic systems in Arkansas.
WRF’s PRI strategy is data-driven and responsive to the needs of Arkansans. We invest to:
Expand Small Business Support
Collaborative projects like the Delta Owned Fund, administered by Communities Unlimited, provided critical capital and business support for small businesses in the Arkansas Delta during the COVID pandemic.
Strengthen Financial Infrastructure
WRF commissioned a Capital Access Study with Winrock International to assess barriers to funding and launched the Grow AR Own initiative to strengthen Arkansas' entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Serve the
Underbanked and Underfunded
PRIs support Hope Credit Union, Southern Bancorp Community Partners and other CDFIs to provide financial services to those traditionally excluded from the banking system.
CURRENT PRIs
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