Empowering Emerging Developers: Office of Jason T. Hyman Hosts Bridge to Action Bootcamp
In an effort to address finance gaps and build capacity among emerging developers of color, the Office of Jason T. Hyman created the Bridge to Action Bootcamp. The real estate brokerage and urban planning firm designed the interactive infill development workshop to prepare new developers for their first or next project.
Interactive Workshops and Expert Panels
As a sponsor of the 2024 Lost Spaces Conference, the Office guided a cohort of thirteen participants through panels and workshops featuring local experts. The group also explored several case studies of neighborhood-scale development led by national thought leaders in missing middle housing, Daniel Parolek and Jim Heid.
Neighborhood-Scale Development Focus
Except for the national thought leaders, all workshop materials and panelists were local and tied to actual sites in Houston, providing participants with relevant context for the area. Workshop panels focused on the development process and included quick labs to reinforce the material. The bootcamp’s main objective was to equip participants with the resources, connections, and information necessary to confidently take the next step in their real estate development journey. From pro bono legal consultations sponsored by the Titus Law Firm to project technical assistance, attendees made significant strides in their efforts to create impactful developments.
Addressing the Housing Shortfall
Neighborhood-scale developers are more crucial than ever before. According to the 2023 SHIBA Report, housing demand is outpacing new home construction by roughly 100,000 units annually, resulting in the largest housing shortfall in nearly half a century. One of the primary drivers of increased housing costs is limited inventory. This applies to commercial real estate and revitalization as well. The Bridge to Action Bootcamp not only positions developers for success but also offers a local solution to a national problem.
Future Opportunities and Programs
As a foundation for successful outcomes, the workshop primes attendees for future opportunities, such as the developer accelerator program currently piloting missing middle projects in Trinity Gardens and the Five Corners District.
To learn more about attending a Bridge to Action workshop or bringing one to your community, please email info@realinclllc.com.