As the Executive Vice President and co-founder of Smith NMTC Associates, LLC, Donna Smith is a pivotal force in the New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) landscape, leveraging her extensive expertise to drive transformative projects in low-income communities. Since launching her career in this sector in...
As the Executive Vice President and co-founder of Smith NMTC Associates, LLC, Donna Smith is a pivotal force in the New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) landscape, leveraging her extensive expertise to drive transformative projects in low-income communities. Since launching her career in this sector in 2006, Donna has been at the forefront of innovation, notably authoring the first NMTC application focused exclusively on affordable homeownership in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity International. This groundbreaking initiative not only set a precedent in the industry but also underscored her commitment to creating sustainable housing solutions.
At Smith NMTC Associates, Donna leads key projects that harness the power of NMTC to stimulate economic growth and job creation in underserved areas. Her strategic vision and deep understanding of corporate law, coupled with her skills in fundraising and program management, enable her to navigate complex financial landscapes and secure vital funding for community development initiatives. Donna is adept at conducting thorough due diligence and legal research, ensuring that every project aligns with regulatory requirements while maximizing community impact.
Her role also involves extensive public speaking engagements, where she shares insights on the NMTC program and its potential to uplift communities. Donna’s passion for social equity drives her work, as she collaborates with various Qualified Active Low-Income Community Businesses (QALICBs) to identify and implement projects that foster long-term investment and improve the quality of life for residents. Through her leadership, Smith NMTC Associates continues to be a beacon of hope and innovation in the realm of community development finance.