News Release:

SAVANNAH, GA – Coastal Area District Development Authority (CADDA), which is a local non-profit business lender, is excited to announce that its Chief Executive Officer Terry Louk was chosen to speak on two panels at the 2025 National Development Finance Summit, which is hosted by the Council of Development Finance Agencies. The Summit will take place October 8 – 10, 2025, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and convenes leaders from across the nation to explore best practices, financing tools, and strategies driving economic growth.

“Terry Louk’s experience and leadership in development finance exemplify the type of expertise we want to highlight at the National Summit,” said Katie Moriarty, Director of Knowledge and Networks Division at the Council of Development Finance Agencies. “CADDA’s long history of supporting small businesses through lending will provide attendees with practical, real-world insight that can be applied in their own communities.”

Both panels Louk will be part of take place on Thursday, October 9, with the first one being Underwriting in Times of Economic Change. This session will address best practices for evaluating business risk during uncertain markets, including how to strengthen underwriting with industry comparisons, risk mitigation techniques, and stress testing financials.

Later in the day, Louk will participate in Innovation in Small Business Financing. This panel will explore how organizations are developing new lending products and flexible financing strategies tailored to the needs of diverse entrepreneurs. Discussions will highlight inclusive approaches that expand access to credit, as well as create holistic support systems in partnership with investors, community groups, and government entities.

“I am honored to represent CADDA and share our work with peers from across the country,” said Louk. “Small businesses are at the heart of our local economy and developing innovative financing solutions to help them grow is a responsibility we take seriously. I look forward to contributing to these important conversations at the Summit.”

Details about the entire 2025 National Development Finance Summit, including all the sessions, can be found at www.cdfa.net/p/2025ndfs-home.html. 

Looking ahead, the 2026 National Development Finance Summit will be hosted in Savannah November 18 – 20, 2026. The gathering will bring national attention to the region, as well as give CADDA another opportunity to highlight its impact on small businesses and economic growth. For more information about the 2026 Summit, visit www.cdfa.net/e/3006027313.

About the Coastal Area District Development Authority

 The Coastal Area District Development Authority (CADDA) is a non-profit small business lender devoted to driving economic growth by making sure local entrepreneurs can access the loans they need to start and expand their ventures. Founded in 1976, CADDA builds on decades of experience partnering with banks, community leaders, and other economic development organizations to deliver affordable financing, paired with guidance and support. Programs are available to businesses throughout Georgia, north Florida, and the Low Country of South Carolina. For more information, visit www.cadda-sba.org.

About the Council of Development Finance Agencies

The Council of Development Finance Agencies (CDFA) is a national association dedicated to the advancement of development finance concerns and interests. CDFA represents a diverse coalition of public, private, and non-profit members. The organization provides education, advocacy, research, and resources to foster the growth and effectiveness of development finance tools across the United States. For more information, visit www.cdfa.net.