Our Mission
At Placemaker Capital, our mission is to empower businesses and communities by providing innovative financial solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs. We specialize in navigating complex financial landscapes to find the best paths for growth and development.
Our Vision
We envision a world where every business, regardless of size, has access to the resources they need to thrive. By fostering strong community ties and leveraging a wealth of industry knowledge, Placemaker Capital aims to be at the forefront of economic development and revitalization.
Our Story
Founded by Evan Kaufman, a leader with extensive experience in economic development, Placemaker Capital emerged from a desire to use this expertise to make a tangible difference in communities. Our team is composed of seasoned professionals dedicated to crafting bespoke financing solutions that do more than just fund projects—they catalyze lasting progress.
Our Founder’s Story: Evan Kaufman
A Visionary Leader
Evan Kaufman, the founder of Placemaker Capital, has always been driven by a passion for transformative change. His journey in economic development began over a decade ago, marked by significant achievements and a deep commitment to community revitalization.
Extensive Experience
Before founding Placemaker Capital, Evan served as the Executive Director for two influential economic development non-profits. In these roles, he spearheaded numerous initiatives that rejuvenated downtown areas and sparked economic growth. His work in Hopewell and Southeast Fairfax has been widely recognized for its impact, bringing new life and opportunities to underutilized urban spaces.
A Record of Success
Evan’s expertise in creating successful public-private partnerships has been a cornerstone of his career. His innovative approach to financing and development has enabled numerous businesses and real estate projects to thrive. His leadership in projects such as the Paint the Corridor initiative in Mount Vernon showcased his ability to blend aesthetic improvements with substantial economic benefits, turning overlooked areas into vibrant community hubs.
Driven by a Mission
Evan founded Placemaker Capital with a mission to leverage his extensive background to help more businesses and communities navigate the complex landscape of commercial financing. He saw a gap in how traditional financial institutions approached loans for community and economic development projects, prompting him to create a firm that would not only fund but also foster growth and sustainability.
A Commitment to Ethics and Progress
Evan’s commitment to ethical practices and sustainable development is at the heart of Placemaker Capital. He believes strongly in the power of finance as a force for good, advocating for solutions that are not only profitable but also beneficial for communities. His approach is rooted in a profound understanding of the nuances of economic development, ensuring that each project supported by Placemaker Capital contributes positively to its community’s long-term vitality.
Looking Forward
Today, Evan continues to lead Placemaker Capital towards new horizons. Under his guidance, the firm remains at the cutting edge of financing solutions, always looking for innovative ways to support projects that many others would overlook. As a thought leader in the industry, he frequently speaks at conferences and contributes to discussions on how to better serve businesses and revitalize communities across the nation.
Our Approach
Our approach is straightforward yet powerful: Review, Discover, and Fund. We start by thoroughly reviewing each client’s financials to ensure they are presented effectively. Next, we tap into our vast network of traditional and non-traditional lenders to discover the best financing options available. Finally, we guide our clients through the funding process, emphasizing transparency and understanding to ensure they are fully informed and confident in their decisions.
Why Choose Us?
Placemaker Capital is not just a financial firm; we are your partners in progress. With our deep commitment to integrity and innovation, we provide more than just loans—we offer a pathway to success. Whether you’re looking to revitalize a local community or expand your business operations, our team is equipped to support your aspirations.
Join Us
We invite you to learn more about how Placemaker Capital can transform your business or community project. Connect with us today to explore what we can achieve together.
A project is only as strong as it’s ability to be financed.