Get to know DFA.
Our Vision
Creating vibrant and thriving communities by generating economic opportunities for all.
As a port authority in the State of Ohio since 1999, the Development Finance Authority of Summit County (DFA) has been highly active in the economic and community development finance space, working to provide innovative access to capital in Summit County, NE Ohio, and beyond, with the focus on creating opportunities for all. DFA works closely with affiliated non-profits, the Akron-Summit Energy Special Improvement District (ESID), the Development Fund of the Western Reserve (DFWR), and Western Reserve Community Fund (WRCF).
History
For over 25 years, the DFA has been the primary economic development finance entity serving Summit County.
1999
DFA Created
In 1999, the powers of the Summit County Port Authority, now the Development Finance Authority (DFA), were expanded to encompass economic development.
2000
Chris Burnham, President and first employee hired
2003
Jobs and Investment Fund Created
2006
Three Port Authority bond funds are used to finance the Cavs practice facility
2010
Bridgestone Americas Technical and Research & Development Center
2011
Development Fund of the Western Reserve Created
To provide greater access to capital for our region, the DFA created DFWR to compete for and obtain allocations of New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) serving an 18-county region of Northeast Ohio.
2012
1st Allocation of New Markets Tax Credits
DFWR received first New Markets Tax Credit allocation in the amount of $20 million.
2013–Present
Goodyear Headquarters East End Neighborhood Project
2016
Energy Special Improvement District Created
2017
Akron Community Revitalization Fund Created
The Akron Community Revitalization Loan Fund (ACRF) was created to provide financing to projects within distressed Akron areas/neighborhoods.
2018
DFA Jobs and Investment Bond Fund Upgrade to A- through S&P Global Ratings
2018
Energy Special Improvement District Expanded
The DFA began expanding the Energy Special Improvement District (ESID) to include 22 Summit County Communities, financing 33 energy efficiency projects.
2019
Western Reserve Community Fund Created
The Western Reserve Community Fund was created to support community development through flexible, low-cost financing and technical assistance.
2020
Minority Contractor Capital Access Program Created
The Minority Contractor Capital Access Program (MCCAP), in coordination with the Akron Urban League, provides financial and technical assistance to Summit County- based minority, women, LGBTQ, Veterans, and persons with disabilities owned contracting businesses.
2020
Akron Resiliency Fund
WRCF partnered with the City of Akron to create the Akron Resiliency Fund with the goal of making low-cost loans to stabilize and grow Akron’s small businesses and encourage investment in the city.
2020
Summit County Affordable Housing Trust Fund Created
The Housing Trust Fund Program assists with the creation, development, rehabilitation, and preservation of affordable housing in Summit County.
2021
$50 Million Jobs OH Bond Fund Investment
Jobs Ohio agreed to provide $10 million of additional loan capital to the Development Finance Authority and four other Ohio Port Authority Bond Funds.
2022
PACE Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund Created
2023
DFWR Service Area Grows
DFWR expanded its service area from 18 counties to 34 counties.
2023
UAkron Park Created
DFA, in partnership with the University of Akron created UAkron Park, Inc., a non-profit which privatized the university parking system.
2024
DFA Jobs and Investment Bond Fund Receives an upgrade from an A- to A through S&P Global Ratings
2025
Changing of the Guard
Chris Burnham retires, and Rachel Bridenstine becomes the new president of DFA.
2025
DFA hosts it’s first Community Event—Groundwork Gathering
Our Mission
The Development Finance Authority ignites job creation and economic growth through innovative and cooperative financing for businesses and communities.