Who We Are
DFC is America’s development finance institution. We partner with the private sector to mobilize capital for strategic investments around the world. Our projects foster economic development, support U.S. interests, and deliver returns to American taxpayers.
Our History
DFC was established through the BUILD Act with bipartisan support during President Trump’s first term, building on the need for increased private sector investment in emerging markets, enhancing U.S. global economic leadership, and countering China’s presence in strategic regions.
$555M returned to the U.S. taxpayer
100+ countries with active DFC investment
$49B+ active global investment portfolio
200M people and small businesses benefited
Why It Matters
We make America stronger by investing in projects that counter China’s presence in strategic locations and bolster supply chains of critical minerals needed for the industries of the future.
We make America safer by investing in projects that advance stable and healthy communities to prevent threats before they reach U.S. borders and reduce many factors that contribute to migration.
We make America more prosperous by helping U.S. businesses access significant investment opportunities in infrastructure, energy, and other sectors.
We help reduce the deficit by supporting creditworthy investments rather than handouts.
Investment Stories
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is DFC part of the U.S. Government?
Yes. DFC is a U.S. Government agency. Our Board of Directors includes the U.S. secretaries of State, Treasury, and Commerce, as well as representatives from the private sector.
- Does DFC provide grant-based foreign aid?
No. DFC offers loans, makes investments, provides insurance against political risks, and helps private businesses grow in other countries. Unlike aid, this money has to be paid back. This approach helps create lasting growth and stronger economies.
- How does DFC support U.S. foreign policy and national security?
DFC investments prevent adversaries from monopolizing infrastructure development, energy markets, and supply chains of critical minerals that are essential to defense, power generation, and other key sectors.
- How does DFC ensure efficient use of taxpayer dollars?
DFC’s model of partnering with the private sector enables us to deploy each dollar of appropriations with exponential impact. We conduct due diligence on all potential projects to ensure creditworthiness. DFC also has rigorous processes for monitoring project performance.