As the CDFI industry gathers in Washington, D.C. for the 2025 OFN Conference, one theme stands out: modernization. From AI and automation to smarter data tools, this year’s agenda shows just how quickly the field is evolving—and how critical it is for mission-driven lenders to keep pace.

That’s why IvyTek created The Smart CDFI’s Guide to Technology & Modernization, a quick-reference companion for attendees who want to make the most of the week. Inside, you’ll find:

• Must-attend sessions for tech-focused leaders and operators
• Breakout panels that dive into data, AI, and automation
• Networking opportunities to meet modernization-minded peers
• Quick tips to bring back to your team after the conference

Whether you’re exploring how to streamline lending operations, integrate data, or upgrade your technology stack, this guide will help you navigate the agenda—and focus on the conversations that move your organization forward.

The Smart CDFI’s Guide to Modernization at OFN 2025

Curated by IvyTek |Booth #1 |Washington, D.C. | October 20–23, 2025

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If your organization is exploring automation, AI, or modernization in community lending, this year’s OFN Conference is your moment to lean into the future. We’ve reviewed the full agenda and curated a list of must-attend sessions for tech-forward, future-ready CDFIs who want to modernize their operations and amplify their impact.

Use this guide to plan your time in D.C. and make every session count.

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⚙️ Monday, October 20 – Foundation Day

Best for: Leaders new to modernization or evaluating operational systems.

CDFI 101 Orientation (9:00–12:00)
Understand the CDFI framework before upgrading your tech stack. A great warm-up if you’re exploring new systems or transitioning away from manual processes.

Financial Planning Workshop (9:30–4:00)
Learn how to align your financial forecasting with operational growth. A must for teams evaluating ROI on new technology investments.

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⚡ Tuesday, October 21 – Innovation in Action

Best for: Executives and operations teams exploring technology adoption, AI, and automation.

Generative AI 101 Workshop (11:00–12:15)
Start here. This beginner-friendly session explains how AI can streamline operations, automate workflows, and enhance lending insights.

Risk and Reward: Exploring the Ups, Downs, and Unexpected Outcomes of CDFIs Pursuing Innovation (11:00-12:15)
Discover how tech-enabled forecasting tools can help your organization stay agile in uncertain markets.

Advancing Mission with Machine Learning: How CDFIs can Harness AI (2:15-3:15)
Fast, practical sessions highlighting real-world examples of CDFIs using AI to increase access and reduce risk.

Networking: Technology & Operations (4:00–5:00)
Connect with peers investing in automation, CRM integrations, and digital transformation.
💡 Tip: Visit the IvyTek booth after this session for a live demo and hands-on look at automation in action.

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🧩 Wednesday, October 22 – Data, Impact, and the Next Generation of Capital Flows

Best for: Data-driven CDFIs, capital managers, and impact reporting teams.

Innovating Capital Flows: Exploring the Next Generation of CDFI Solutions (11:00–12:00)
A big-picture look at how modernization is reshaping lending infrastructure and the flow of capital.

Unlocking Public Data to Drive CDFI Impact (11:00–12:00)
See how analytics and mapping tools can turn data into actionable insight.
💡 Pair this with IvyTek’s analytics dashboards for deeper portfolio visibility.

The Art & Science of Navigating Your Auditor Relationship (11:00–12:00)
Learn how automation can simplify compliance and streamline year-end reporting.

Innovation Without the Price Tag: Tech Smarts for Resourceful CDFIs (2:00-2:45)
Learn how to make meaningful technology upgrades without blowing the budget.

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🌎 Thursday, October 23 – Connection & Strategy

Best for: Strategic partnerships and modernization advocates.

Amplifying CDFI Impact Through Shared Media (9:00–10:15)
Join peers exploring how CDFI marketing teams are expected to do more with less, tracking the right metrics is key to maximizing impact—and proving it.

Workshop: Scaling Impact through Ethical AI (9:00–10:15)
Wrap up your conference by connecting with other tech-minded CDFIs—an interactive workshop on ways mission-driven organizations like CDFIs can not only influence the development of more ethical AI,

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💡 Pro Tips for Tech-Focused Attendees

• Visit the IvyTek booth early to discuss how your business works better with IvyTek before traffic picks up.
  
  
• Share your favorite session takeaways on LinkedIn—tag #OFN2025 and #IvyTek to keep the conversation going.
  
  
• Ask presenters about API integrations, CRM data flows, and automation—these themes will dominate modernization in 2026.

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🎯 Want a Personalized OFN Schedule?

Get a customized one-page itinerary tailored to your organization’s modernization goals.
👉 Stop  by Booth #1 at OFN to meet the IvyTek team.

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About IvyTek
IvyTek builds innovative loan management software designed for CDFIs and mission-driven lenders. We help organizations automate lending workflows, improve data accuracy, and expand access to capital for the communities they serve.