The Emerging Developer Academy (EDA) is a national capacity-building initiative designed to train, mentor, and support a new generation of community-rooted real estate developers. While our program operates on a national scale, our model is centered around place-based cohorts, focusing on equipping participants with the skills, resources, and networks necessary to build high-quality, affordable housing in historically underinvested neighborhoods.
A 5-day, in-person immersive experience designed to build a comprehensive foundation in housing development. The bootcamp equips participants with core competencies to plan, assess, manage and deliver residential real estate development projects.
Participants apply their knowledge by developing a full proposal for a housing development project in a pitch-style presentation with continued technical support.
Continued support is provided throughout project advancement, from early planning through completion, ensuring developers gain real-world experience and project delivery success.
Developers receive guided support in accessing traditional and innovative financing options, crafting financial packages, and building lender-ready business documentation.
Each participant is paired with an experienced industry mentor for tailored, strategic advice focused on individual project goals and business development needs.
Participants gain practical experience through real-world or simulated project execution, including community outreach, feasibility assessment, and regulatory compliance.
The program provides in-depth instruction on navigating housing policy, local development regulations, and incentives, preparing developers to engage effectively with municipalities.
Initial, midpoint, and post-program assessments are used to measure business readiness, identify technical gaps, and refine individualized support plans.
Graduates gain long-term access to a growing network of peers, exclusive learning opportunities, joint venture introductions, and continued technical and capital resources.
