Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI)
We worked with the CABVI to successfully raise and close $24 million in NMTC allocation to support the renovation/ build-out of two critical facilities.
Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Utica and Syracuse, NY
CABVI is a national leader providing services and creating meaningful employment opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired. Organized as a nonprofit, CABVI leverages its manufacturing and business services social enterprise to support free and low-cost vision services across a 10-county service area in Central New York. The NMTC transaction supported the renovation of CABVI’s 72,000-SF headquarters facility in Utica, NY and buildout of its 70,000-SF vision services center in Syracuse, NY. The project directly addresses a demonstrated community need for accessible employment opportunities and vision services tailored to blind or visually impaired individuals.
Works Completed
Marketed the project to a wide range of NMTC financing providers
Secured $24 million in NMTC allocation from multiple CDEs
Negotiated and obtained top-of-market NMTC equity pricing
Led an efficient and smooth closing process
Providing post-closing support around compliance and other NMTC obligations
Results
CABVI broke ground on renovations to its headquarters facility in Utica in November 2024 and is anticipated to complete construction in 2026.
All employees have access to extensive job training focused on leadership and career advancement. At full operations, the project will provide 384 unique individuals per year with a wide array of low-vision services including adaptive living support, eye health checks, case management, and youth workforce training.
Featured Impact Numbers
250
Permanent FTE jobs supported, 80% accessible without a 4-year degree
44%
of jobs at CABVI are held by individuals who are blind or visually impaired
