FranchiseU! Episode 60: Damien Dwin (Lafayette Square)

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Kathy sits down with Damien Dwin from Lafayette Square. Dwin shares his research-based perspective on capital investment and how non-traditional investment can improve capitalism for every US citizen.

Damien Dwin is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Lafayette Square, a national investment platform. Founded in November 2020, Lafayette Square aims to create investment opportunities in overlooked places and underserved markets. Lafayette Square invests across asset classes and seeks to provide robust risk-adjusted returns to investors while positively supporting people and communities. We can build a more inclusive American economy by increasing access to economic opportunity.

Previously, Dwin served as Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Brightwood Capital Advisors from its founding in 2010 to October 2020.

Dwin began his career as a trader with Goldman Sachs, New York & London, earning the Michael P. Mortara Award for Innovation. He then further developed his investment expertise working for Credit Suisse, where he was the Co-Founder and Head of the North American Special Opportunities business until 2010. At Credit Suisse, Dwin also served on the Vice President Selection Committee and led the Fixed Income Division Credit Training Program.

Dwin is an active thought leader on mass incarceration, economic inclusion, racial justice and representation, and the use of purpose and profit for good. He has written for Entrepreneur and Inc.com.

Dwin currently serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees for Vera Institute of Justice. He also serves on the non-profit boards of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Hospital of Philadelphia, Studio Museum in Harlem, National Trust for Historic Preservation, Woodberry Forest School, and Boys’ Club of New York.

Dwin received a BS/BA from Georgetown University, later serving two terms on the Board of Regents.

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