What is CNote?
CNote is a cash and fixed-income platform designed to help both institutions and individuals achieve competitive returns, preserve capital, and—most importantly—strengthen communities across the nation. Founded in 2016 by financial executives Catherine Berman and Yuliya Tarasava, CNote taps into the often-overlooked $5 trillion community finance market. It’s for investors who get that strong financial performance and positive community development can go hand in hand. After recognizing the solid fundamentals and real-world impact of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)—think affordable housing, first-time entrepreneurs, and community facilities—the founders created CNote to connect capital directly to the community finance and banking ecosystem, all without adding risk. Today, CNote combines institutional-grade discipline, cutting-edge technology, and rigorous risk management to channel capital into community finance at scale.
Main Benefits of Using CNote
What makes CNote stand out? Here’s a quick snapshot:
- 100% FDIC- and NCUA-insured cash management products
- Fixed-income offerings backed by a network of over 2,500 mission-driven financial institutions
- Funds placed only in carefully vetted institutions with proven community impact
- Competitive returns paired with meaningful economic and social benefits
- Access to mission-driven banks and credit unions, including CDFIs, MDIs, and LIDs
- A secure, streamlined platform designed for liquidity, capital preservation, and long-term growth
How CNote Makes Impact Investing Easy
Impact investing can sometimes feel complicated, but CNote simplifies it by connecting your capital directly to mission-driven financial institutions. Whether you’re after liquidity, preserving your capital, or aiming for long-term growth, CNote’s insured cash management and fixed-income solutions are built to deliver competitive returns while driving tangible benefits to underserved communities. It’s a way to align your financial goals with positive economic and social outcomes without the usual hassle or guesswork.
The Vision and Mission Behind CNote
CNote isn’t just about finance—it’s about reshaping the entire system. Their vision? A financial world where everyone has equal access to capital, opportunity, and prosperity. Their mission? To harness financial innovation to expand access, strengthen communities, and build a more inclusive economy. This isn’t just corporate speak; it’s a real commitment to making finance work for everyone, not just a select few.
The Team Powering CNote
Behind CNote is a team that brings together seasoned fintech operators, risk management pros, and community finance specialists. Their backgrounds span institutional investing, structured finance, technology innovation, and impact strategy. This diverse expertise means they’re equipped to deliver not just strong financial outcomes but measurable community results. It’s a blend of brains and heart, driving both profit and purpose.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 1: No Poverty
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Why CNote Matters in Today’s Financial Landscape
In a world where finance often feels disconnected from real-world impact, CNote stands out by proving you don’t have to sacrifice returns for social good. It’s a fresh take on values-aligned investing, blending fintech innovation with a commitment to community development. For investors who want their money to do more than just grow—who want it to build affordable housing, support entrepreneurs, and strengthen underserved communities—CNote offers a clear path forward. It’s finance with a conscience, and it’s changing the game.
