Last fall, Lafayette Square joined ATC with hopes of getting to know local thought leaders and to help companies attract and retain top talent. This month, they’ll put those hopes into action by hosting a happy hour at the local watering hole, Easy Tiger South, on Thursday, May 19, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
“We’re hoping to connect with local members of the community that are passionate about diverse people and unique places,” said Britt Stackhouse, Managing Director at Lafayette Square. “We want to meet people who are curious about how they can grow their businesses and attract and reward talent, as well as those who share our vision for change.”
To learn more about Lafayette Square and why they’ve chosen to expand to Austin, read our Q&A with Stackhouse below. And don’t forget to RSVP to have a drink with him, his colleagues, and other local execs, professionals, and thought leaders on May 19.
Britt Stackhouse, Managing Director at Lafayette Square.
Tell us about your company.
Lafayette Square is an impact investment firm providing non-dilutive capital (in the form of loans) to founder and employee-owned companies. We pair that capital with curated services designed to empower companies to attract, develop, and retain employees.
Who do you serve?
People first, always. Essentially, we are a lender to middle market companies, thereby serving the owners/shareholders, employees, customers, vendors, industry partners, and their greater communities. Service to all people — especially those that have been historically underserved or overlooked — is a big element of what social impact means to me.
What is one thing you wish more people knew about Lafayette Square?
As an impact investor, combining the capital we lend to companies, paired with the worker solutions we offer to their employees and families, can be a tremendous benefit to corporate sustainability and growth. Lending has never been done like this before.
Why do you enjoy working for Lafayette Square?
After a long run in finance offering the same, old lending options, I am invigorated by the impact our financings and worker solutions are intentionally designed to have on companies and their employees. Contributing to something beyond traditional financing makes me proud as a father and as a person. We are striving to build a better American economy for my children.
Why has Lafayette Square chosen to expand to Austin?
Austin is a magnet for diverse people from diverse places. People make companies great, and companies across the country are looking at Austin’s “weird” and wonderful vibe as something they’d like to replicate in rural areas and areas with less staggering growth and capital influx.
What excites you most about your visit to Austin in a couple of weeks?
C’mon — what’s not exciting about visiting Austin? For me, meeting old friends and new friends is the most exciting thing. Sprinkle in good music, spicy food, and warm sunshine and I’m in heaven. Now, I just need to make sure I can fit it all in…
What are your other plans for your visit?
My buddy from UGA who calls Austin home booked a reservation at Hestia, and it sounds awesome. I’m also a believer that burritos and breakfast tacos are near perfect food vessels, and I love Zilker too. I will try to get up early, run along the river, and throw the frisbee a bit with friends, kids, and pets. Other than that, I want to meet as many people as possible.