New national research shows a gap between awareness and practical application, with strong demand for guidance and tools

Community-based financial institutions are paying attention to digital assets, but most are still in the early stages of understanding how these tools fit within their work.

The report provides a field-informed look at how CDFIs, MDIs, and other local lenders are assessing opportunities, risks, and readiness.

Key Findings

Awareness is widespread, but familiarity is limited.

98 percent have heard of cryptocurrencies, but only 28 percent report being familiar or very familiar with digital assets.

Most institutions are not yet engaged operationally.

More than 80 percent of respondents have not explored digital assets in their programs or operations.

Interest is focused on internal operations, not new products.

When institutions do consider use cases, they point to functions such as payroll, procurement, supply chain management, and identity verification.

Risk considerations and operational constraints shape decision-making.

98 percent have heard of cryptocurrencies, but only 28 percent report being familiar or very familiar with digital assets.

Demand for practical guidance is strong.

More than 70 percent of respondents want accessible resources on risk protections, consumer safeguards, and regulatory considerations.