A trusted partner in community-driven growth since 2011
What we do
Transformative real estate development projects are complex. When local governments are involved, DFI works alongside these partners to find community-driven solutions that align public interests with real estate market realities.
DFI does this work by providing a bridge between the public and private sectors. Its team members have a unique blend of real estate finance and development expertise, and deep knowledge of public development finance tools. They are committed partners that work with local governments from project start to finish, providing responsive and objective support to staff and elected officials.
This approach has a proven track record of success. The program has assisted with more than 250 projects in three states and 78 North Carolina counties. Taken together, DFI projects have attracted more than $1 billion in private investment for communities across the Tar Heel State.
Our home
DFI is a program of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Government. Founded in 1931, the School is the largest university-based local government training, advisory, and research organization in the United States. Its faculty and staff improve the lives of North Carolinians by engaging in practical scholarship that helps public officials and citizens understand and improve state and local government.
The School serves thousands of public officials from all 100 North Carolina counties every year through its courses, direct advising, and publications. It is also home to the top-ranked UNC Master of Public Administration program. DFI contributes to the educational mission of UNC and the School of Government through its graduate fellowships and by staff instruction in professional and graduate courses, including the Community Revitalization course.
