Forward Community Investments Appoints Ryan Zerwer as President & CEO
MADISON, WI, September 20, 2021 – Forward Community Investments (FCI), a leading investor, connector, and advisor helping to build a more equitable and inclusive Wisconsin, today announced it has appointed Ryan Zerwer as its new President & CEO. His expertise in real estate, entrepreneurship, finance, and operations will bolster FCI’s work to invest in Wisconsin communities.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has deeply impacted communities throughout the state and exacerbated long-standing economic disparities, especially among communities of color,” said Zerwer. “As we focus on building a more inclusive state, we have an incredible opportunity to invest in our communities to bring benefits to all Wisconsinites. I’m excited to join FCI and contribute to their vision of a more equitable and inclusive Wisconsin.”
Ryan previously was partner, CEO & president of Clotho Digital for over a decade. He also brings years of real estate investment and tech industry experience to his role at FCI. He currently serves as a board member at Maydm, Inc.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Ryan to FCI,” said Jaimes Johnson, FCI’s board chair. “Our board of directors was unanimous in our agreement that Ryan was the best choice to lead FCI in its next chapter. His entrepreneurial experience, intellect, and personal passion for impactful approaches to reducing disparities will position FCI well for its important work ahead.”
Ryan’s appointment comes at a time when FCI is working to increase awareness around racial and social inequities to drive measurable change to lift up communities throughout the state of Wisconsin. This includes overseeing the deployment of $40 million in New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC), which FCI was recently awarded from the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) to reduce socio-economic and racial disparities.
Ryan added, “FCI has a strong track record of working with communities in need to provide resources that enable people to forge more financially independent futures. I look forward to working closely with FCI’s staff, partners, and Board, to drive measurable outcomes that improve the day-to-day lives of Wisconsinites.”
About Forward Community Investments
Forward Community Investments (FCI) is an investor, connector, and advisor for organizations and initiatives that reduce social, racial, and economic disparities in Wisconsin communities. We envision an equitable and inclusive Wisconsin built on cooperative social action. In its capacity as a statewide Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), FCI infuses capital into economically underserved communities and neighborhoods. For more information about FCI, visit: www.forwardci.org or for media inquiries email info@forwardci.org.
