Rachel Bridenstine
President

Rachel Bridenstine manages operations of the Development Finance Authority of Summit County (DFA) as well as leads two mission driven 501(c)(3) organizations (staffed and supported by DFA) that are focused on access to capital for distressed areas and disadvantaged businesses in Northeast Ohio. Through these 3 entities, Rachel oversees investments of over $200M. Throughout her tenure with DFA, much of her oversite of investments resulted in approximately 1,500 permanent quality jobs to distressed communities. She is responsible for financial and business policies/processes as well as oversees investment outcome tracking, program compliance monitoring, fiscal compliance monitoring and program reporting. Along with DFA staff, she works closely with borrowers, investors, other Port Authorities, CDFIs, and government, business, and community agencies. Rachel also prepares and disseminates information and training to communities and businesses – specifically regarding finance tools for Low Income Communities and disadvantaged businesses. She is a frequent speaker and panelist for both local and national organizations focused on economic and community development.  

Within her tenure, Rachel has worked to structure and manage multiple programs for the Greater Akron Community including: The Akron Community Revitalization Fund, The Minority Contractors Capital Access Program, The Summit County Affordable Housing Trust Fund, and The Akron Resiliency Fund, bringing unique financing tools to Summit County.

Rachel has over 15 years of experience in accounting, community/economic finance (including tax credits, bond financing, small business lending, and other federal funding programs), management, development, and marketing. She has worked in the non-profit sector and other community outreach organizations in the Akron area. Rachel currently serves on the Akron Civic Theatre board of directors, The Well CDC board of directors, Elevate Greater Akron Working Groups, volunteers with Akron Hope and as a musician at her church. In 2020, she was one of the recipients of the 30 for the Future awards through the Greater Akron Chamber, and in 2021 received the Economic Professional of the Year award from Ohio Economic Development Association.

Rachel graduated from Hiram College with additional coursework completed at The University of Akron and resides in Akron with her three sons.