Joel Poppert, Founder & CEO

Joel Poppert is a leading expert in real estate financing, with over a decade of experience securing capital for commercial real estate projects and investment opportunities. As Co-Founder and Partner at Imperial Ridge Real Estate Capital, Joel spent the past decade spearheading the direct lending and origination of primary construction and bridge debt, alongside CPACE financing. Over his career, he has placed more than $100 million in CPACE loans and nearly $500 million in traditional debt.

Joel’s unique background in loan structuring, fund management, underwriting hundreds of projects across every major asset class, preparing credit memorandums, and managing capital relations sets him apart as a capital advisor. His hands-on experience enables Sasquatch Capital to engineer defensible capital structures capable of withstanding the scrutiny of even the most conservative credit committees—an approach far removed from the industry standard of “tossing something against the wall to see what sticks.” Known for his candid and transparent nature, Joel only takes on deals with clear, achievable terms. His expertise in integrating CPACE with primary debt makes him a trusted leader, unmatched in the industry.

Joel founded Sasquatch Capital to expand his expertise beyond Imperial Ridge and to begin cultivating a new generation of capital advisors. His vision is to offer clients access to his diverse network of community and regional banks, private debt funds, and institutional lenders. Sasquatch Capital combines this extensive network with deep expertise in underwriting and structuring efficient capital stacks that secure the necessary funding to bring ambitious projects to life. Joel’s pioneering work in CPACE financing includes shaping legislation, advancing innovative programs nationwide, and, most importantly, educating lenders.

With dual degrees in Geology and Geophysics from the University of Minnesota and an MBA from the University of Colorado-Denver, Joel brings technical precision and strategic insight to every deal. Before transitioning to real estate finance, he spent nearly a decade leading clean energy project development, procurement, and financing efforts across the U.S. An entrepreneur throughout his adult life, Joel weathered the challenges of the Great Recession while sustaining his first company, a construction business, and has since built a reputation for grit, intelligence, and creativity. His hands-on approach ensures Sasquatch Capital delivers bespoke financing solutions that maximize returns and mitigate risks for every client.

In his free time, Joel enjoys spending time outdoors. Living in Colorado, he can often be found whitewater rafting, skiing, hiking, or backpacking. When not enjoying the mountains, you’ll find him traveling the world, reading a book (or working on one currently in production), podcasting, or simply savoring a beer on one of the 320 sunny days Denver has to offer. Most importantly, he is the proud fur dad to Mesa, his geriatric rescue pup.