History of the Center
In 2009, Dr. Michael Swack founded the Center for Impact Finance (originally called the Center for Social Enterprise and Finance) as part of the Carsey School of Public Policy at the University of New Hampshire. Earlier in his career, in 1982, Dr. Swack created the successful Master in Community Economic Development program at Southern New Hampshire University and helped found the New Hampshire Community Loan Fund in 1983 and the Opportunity Finance Network in 1984. For 15 years, he led the Center’s growth and helped expand the Master in Community Development (MCD) program at the Carsey School. In 2024, Dr. Swack stepped down from the role of director and continues to serve as a senior fellow and to teach in the MCD program. Ellen Lurie Hoffman joined the CIF as executive director in September 2024.
In 2026, the Center for Impact Finance moved to the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy. CIF’s work is rooted in the belief that finance can serve public purpose, consistent with the Lincoln Institute’s mission to transform land value into public value. This partnership contributes to the Lincoln Institute’s growing portfolio of work in catalytic capital, land policy, and systems innovation, and enables the center to expand programs and amplify our impact. Partnership with Claremont Lincoln University allows CIF to continue offering certificates and micro-credentials from an accredited university that count for credit toward a master’s degree.
Today, the CIF’s research and thought leadership extends to a wide range of topics, including small business development; affordable housing; fintech; climate resilience; and Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) capitalization, systems, growth, and collaboration. The center is also deeply engaged in ensuring that the nation’s transition to a clean energy economy benefits low-income communities. Together with the Lincoln Institute and Claremont Lincoln University, CIF is working to advance a shared vision of sustainable, place-based economic development and bring financial expertise that is sought by so many communities around the world.