Emerging And Diverse Developers Honored By Ramsey County Board For Advancing In Affordable Housing Sector

Emerging And Diverse Developers Honored By Ramsey County Board For Advancing In Affordable Housing Sector

On November 12, a group of 26 local, emerging, and diverse developers received commendations from the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners as they completed the county's Emerging and Diverse Developer (EDD) Program. Acknowledging their hard work and dedication, the graduates were awarded official Certificates of Completion signed by the County Board Chair, marking a significant milestone in their careers. Among the cohort, Dana and Alex shared insights into their journeys, with Dana stating, "When we submitted our solicitation on Ramsey County, I definitely felt this is exactly where I'm supposed to be," according to a Ramsey County announcement.

The program strives to actively involve these burgeoning developers in the affordable housing sector and tackle racial disparities within the real estate industry. According to another program graduate, Alex, "Without community programs, I probably wouldn't be here today," as reported in the same Ramsey County release. Alex also highlighted the personal impacts, "I'm a coach and a few of the kids I coach still deal with unstable homes and housing, so this program definitely helped me and Dana continue to provide housing to those individuals." The county's initiative reflects an ongoing commitment to not only address the crucial need for affordable housing but also to empower a new and diverse generation of developers to strongly stand in the marketplace.

Ramsey County Commissioner Victoria Reinhardt weighed in on the significance of the program, "To have a safe place to live, that you can afford, everything else comes from that," she said. "We thank all of you for what you are doing." The initiative is part of a broader county objective to foster economic prosperity, especially in areas with high concentrations of financial poverty, and to improve accessibility to opportunities for all residents. This aligns with the county’s strategic priorities and Economic Competitiveness & Inclusion Plan.

The EDD program assists participants to nimbly navigate the complexities associated with housing development through peer learning, cohort sessions, and one-on-one coaching from professionals at organizations like NEOO Partners and Baker Tilly - Minnesota. The supported developers, who own between zero and five housing properties, are equipped with the resources and confidence needed to successfully seek and secure public funding for their affordable housing projects. These resources are essential tools in the intricate tapestry of real estate development, providing a ladder for those who might have otherwise been denied access to climb.

SOURCE: hoodline