Kirby Burkholder

About Kirby Burkholder

For nearly 25 years, I\'ve had the privilege of partnering with nonprofits across the Midwest to build stronger, more equitable communities. I\'m driven by the belief that every mission-driven organization deserves a trusted ally to help it thrive. By providing the most catalytic lending tool in the nonprofit ecosystem and real estate solutions at IFF, we empower community-based organizations in 10 states to achieve their goals and, in turn, create transformative social change. My journey with IFF began in 2001 when I joined the newly established real estate consulting division. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of leading nearly every dimension of our work—from launching and growing our Detroit and St. Louis offices to spearheading innovative initiatives through our Social Impact Accelerator that help transform key sectors like early childhood education. Before becoming IFF\'s CEO, I served as President of Core Business Solutions, leading IFF’s lending, real estate consulting, and development services across the Midwest.My commitment to community development extends beyond my role at IFF, as I also serve on the board of directors for the Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency and as the board chair of Community Desk Chicago. To learn more about IFF\'s work, visit iff.org.

Experience

1. Chief Executive Officer

   IFF (CDFI)

   Jan 2026 — Present

Education

• Goshen College

  BA, Sociology, TESOL

  1994 — 1995

• University of Illinois Chicago

  MUPP, Urban Planning

  1996 — 1998