We create opportunities for people to own commercial real estate, grow their businesses, and build wealth through inclusive development.

Theory of Change

In communities of color, commercial development has been stymied by decades of disinvestment, extractive rather than inclusive ownership, poorly tailored products and services, and ensuing lack of community support.

Only 3% of Black households own commercial real estate in comparison to 8% of white households. The long history of wealth extraction in the U.S. has resulted in people of color being shut out of commercial ownership as well as commercial property in BIPOC communities being systematically devalued.

Collaborating with TREND on inclusively-owned commercial real estate projects, we transform community shopping centers into vibrant hubs that offer essential, service-oriented goods and services and invite local residents to co-own the assets with us. Our approach revitalizes these spaces and ensures that residents directly benefit from the revitalization of their neighborhoods.

Our Services

Inclusive Real Estate Development

We support the transformation of TREND-owned shopping centers into vibrant, community-serving hubs. We support existing small business tenants, attract new tenants, and support making physical improvements that enhance the properties.
Small Business Support & Capital

We provide financing, technical assistance, and coaching to small businesses, empowering them with the tools and resources needed to grow. Technical assistance services include access to grants, loans, business planning, leasing strategies, marketing, and more.
Investor Education & Engagement

Many of the individuals who invest in TREND shopping centers are first-time commercial real estate investors. TREND CDC provides investor education, regular updates, and support throughout the investment journey. Currently, TREND co-owns 6 shopping centers with 385 small-impact investors, 67% of whom are Black and 46% women.
Shared Ownership Advisory Services

We help community organizations, developers, and small businesses, structure and advance inclusive real estate projects. Leveraging our expertise in development, financing, crowdfunding, investor engagement, and project management, we guide clients through every stage—from site control to successful operation.
Neighborhood Business Planning

We assemble teams to conduct in-depth market research, demographic analysis, and community-led planning in neighborhoods. This engagement and analysis informs comprehensive business planning and revitalization strategies, ensuring that real estate projects meet local needs and support neighborhood growth.
Safe & Resilient Communities

We collaborate with local organizations to design and implement projects that promote community health, safety, and climate resilience. From crime prevention initiatives to installing solar panels on the roofs of shopping centers, our goal is to ensure that the neighborhoods we serve become thriving, sustainable economic hubs.