About Us

Leveraging Expertise for Impact

The Team Behind Impact Marketplace

Impact Marketplace: AI Technology Matched with Human Expertise

New Markets Tax Credit are complex – having a knowledgeable and experienced team by your side as you navigate the NMTC process makes all the difference for your success.

The value behind Impact Marketplace isn’t just our AI-driven platform, but the fact that our innovation and tech is matched by human expertise and guidance. The collective strength of our team is a critical asset in navigating the complexities of the NMTC space, ultimately driving successful projects in new markets.

Matt Drinen: A Pillar of Expertise and Innovation

Matt Drinen, Co-Founder and Principal of Impact Marketplace, brings a robust foundation of fifteen years in banking, finance, economic, and community development. His tenure at CliftonLarsonAllen LLP (CLA) and US Bancorp Community Development Corporation (USBCDC) underscores a career dedicated to the advancement of NMTC, Historic Tax Credits (HTC), and Opportunity Zone Investments. At Impact Marketplace, Drinen’s leadership is instrumental in modernizing the NMTC process, emphasizing technology-driven solutions for greater access, transparency, and efficiency. His approach to removing outdated barriers is making NMTC projects more accessible and navigable, a testament to his commitment to fostering equitable investment opportunities.

Luke Pope: Bridging Real Estate and Tax Credit Expertise

With over fifteen years in public accounting and a significant focus on real estate and tax credits, Luke Pope’s experience enriches Impact Marketplace’s service offerings. His leadership in NMTC and HTC practices nationwide, coupled with his role in co-founding the firm’s national Opportunity Zone practice, highlights his proficiency in structuring complex transactions. As a Principal and Co-Founder, Pope’s expertise not only enhances the firm’s consulting capabilities but also provides clients with strategic insights into capitalizing on NMTC and other tax incentive opportunities.

James Heffner: Legal Acumen and Financing Insight

As a Principal and Co-Founder, James Heffner’s legal expertise and experience in tax credit financing, particularly in representing lenders and Qualified Active Low-Income Community Businesses (QALICBs) in NMTC transactions, provide a solid foundation for addressing the complex legal and compliance aspects of NMTC projects. His background as General Counsel and Executive Vice President for a large real estate developer, along with his previous roles in finance and law, equip Impact Marketplace with a nuanced understanding of the intersections between legal frameworks, financing, and community development.

Jeff Frankel: From Compliance to Community Development

Jeff Frankel’s extensive background in finance, banking, and NMTC transactions adds a crucial dimension to Impact Marketplace’s team. His work in managing Community Development Entity (CDE) federal tax applications, operations, and compliance brings a meticulous understanding of the regulatory landscape. Frankel’s leadership in deploying capital to disadvantaged businesses and communities underlines the team’s commitment to meaningful economic development and social impact.

Boston Ziegler: Analyzing Opportunities for Growth

Though the newest member of the team, Boston Ziegler’s role in financial analysis and NMTC underscores the importance of data-driven decision-making in identifying and capitalizing on investment opportunities. His work enhances operational efficiency and supports the firm’s mission by leveraging financial data to uncover risks and opportunities, ensuring that Impact Marketplace and its clients are positioned for success.

Impact Marketplace: A Convergence of Expertise

The strength of Impact Marketplace lies not just in its innovative platform but in the depth and diversity of its team’s expertise. Each member’s unique background and skill set converge to create a comprehensive platform that not only navigates but also shapes the landscape of community development finance. By leveraging their combined experience in banking, finance, law, and real estate, Impact Marketplace offers an unmatched level of service and insight, driving the success of NMTC projects and fostering impactful investment in communities across the United States.

Ready to Make an Impact?

Join Impact Marketplace today and harness the power of NMTC to transform communities together.