Deborah La Franchi is the founder and CEO of SDS Capital Group, a national leader in impact investing with over $1.9 billion in active assets under management. Since founding the firm in 2001, La Franchi has pioneered innovative private equity models, such as a funding strategy for Permanent Supportive Housing that significantly reduces construction costs and timelines compared to traditional public housing. In the past year, her firm successfully completed the $60 million first close of the American South Real Estate Fund III and launched SDS Impact Debt, a platform providing below-market financing for affordable housing. La Franchi’s dedication to diversity is reflected in her internship program, where at least 50% of participants are women or minorities. She also founded the Sustainable Communities Fund, a nonprofit revolving fund that provides micro-loans to low-income and diverse entrepreneurs.