Investing in Culture. Building Community. Delivering Returns.
At DRBA Development Capital, we see potential where others see decline. Our mission is to revitalize America’s most culturally rich yet economically overlooked communities—starting in the Arkansas and Mississippi River Delta—by transforming authentic heritage into sustainable prosperity.
Our Story: Where Culture Meets Capital
Not long ago, the Mississippi Delta stood as a cornerstone of American culture—its towns alive with the sounds of blues, the spirit of civil rights, and the pages of literary giants. But over time, the economy shifted. Buildings emptied. Tourism faded. And communities with extraordinary legacies were left behind.
At DRBA Development Capital, we saw more than decline—we saw untapped potential.
Our journey began with a simple question:
What if cultural heritage could drive economic rebirth?
We realized the Delta had all the ingredients for a comeback: globally significant history, unmatched authenticity, and communities ready for revival. What was missing was a partner bold enough to connect the dots—between culture, capital, and community.
That’s where we come in.
We don’t just fund projects—we tell stories through space. We preserve the soul of the Delta while activating its economy through strategic tourism development, tax-advantaged investment tools, and public-private collaboration.
And we’re just getting started.
What We Do
We develop cultural tourism destinations in Qualified Opportunity Zones—preserving the past while generating tax-advantaged returns. By restoring historic properties and activating legacy-rich neighborhoods, we attract travelers, spark business growth, and create lasting impact.
Why the Delta?
The Delta is more than geography—it’s the birthplace of the blues, a backdrop to civil rights history, and a wellspring of American storytelling. Yet, despite this cultural capital, the region remains economically underserved.
"We believe that with the right strategy, capital, and partnerships, these communities can become national destinations and global points of pride."
Michael McCray, Director (COO)
Our Edge
Our team blends deep heritage expertise, seasoned investment experience, and proven public-private partnerships. With access to federal and state tax incentives, we structure investments to align impact with opportunity.
Backed by Momentum
We’re not alone in this vision. Foundations, universities, civic leaders, and local organizations are already investing in the Delta’s future. We amplify these efforts through strategic development and catalytic capital.
Our Team
Victor brings over 40 years of investment banking experience, including a senior executive role at Bear Stearns. He specializes in structured finance and tax-advantaged investments, with a strong track record managing complex financial transactions. At DRBA, he leads investment strategy and financial structuring.
Victor Russell
Director & Chief Investment Officer
Michael is a seasoned leader in both cultural and economic development. He has served as a Cultural Development Specialist for the City of Pine Bluff, General Counsel for a historic boutique hotel project in Atlanta, and Lead on the Federal Empowerment Zones White House Initiative. He also sits on the James Beard Foundation Awards Ethics Committee. Michael leads operations and legal strategy.
Michael McCray
Managing Partner & Chief Operating Officer
Michael is a former Arkansas State Representative and Chairman of the Arkansas Democratic Party, with deep bipartisan relationships across state and federal government. He’s also an experienced restaurant and agricultural operations owner. He leads investor outreach and public sector relations.
Michael John Grey
Investor & Government Relations
Investment Strategy & Target Returns
12–15% Net IRR
Targeted Return
2.29–3.90x
Targeted Equity Multiple
30–35% Net IRR
After-Tax Enhanced Return
10-Year Hold
Maximum Tax Advantage
$46 Billion
Delta Initiative Investment
