In the USA, local nonprofit community development organizations (CDCs) have become the primary developers of affordable housing in low income areas. From such beginnings, CDCs are also supporting small enterprises, attracting national retailers and developing services and jobs. One of the keys to this effort has been the creation of partnerships between nonprofit funders. The Ford Foundation's US$30 million investment has leveraged more than $400 million for community development project and helped more than 150 CDCs.