What we’re looking for
A focus on lowering costs
You have a construction innovation, a tool for increasing density, a financial product that will stabilize communities facing displacement, or something else entirely. Lowering the cost of housing for everyday people is why you exist.
Any company structure
Your organization may take any form, including LLC, B corp, C corp, or a nonprofit. As long as you are focused on building something you can scale to reach a large number of customers, we’re interested.
Early-stage
You have initial customer validation, either from an existing pilot or extensive market research; you’re looking to evolve your business model to be more effective. For venture-backed startups, this means seed through series A companies.
A racial equity lens
Housing has been used throughout U.S. history to enforce racial segregation and inequity. Solutions will need to address this reality and embrace a vision for a more equitable society.
All-in founders
You’re committed to your venture full-time, or would be able to commit full-time once in our program. We’re going to be giving you a lot of attention and we need you to be all-in.
What you’ll get
We will advise and directly invest in a small cohort of companies as you refine your business models, navigate the policy environment, and find the right investors to help you scale.
$100,000 - $150,000
in non-dilutive philanthropic capital
4 customized in-person summits + virtual programming
From Oct ’19 - April ’20, you will convene with your cohort 4 times for 2-4 days for workshops and meetings with experts and funders. You’ll get ongoing virtual support in between
Introductions to diverse capital providers
We’re building a network of philanthropic, venture capital, and alternative investors to help you find the additional capital you need
Industry expert advising
1x1 personalized advising with national leaders in real estate, government, finance, and innovation
In-kind services that actually matter
Pro-bono legal support, discounted web hosting, and a suite of other services
Access to UC Berkeley network and expertise
The Terner Center is a leading housing policy and research center at UC Berkeley. We will connect you with our world-class faculty, students, and alums ready to support your venture
Closing event
A closing investor event with a diversity of funders eager to support housing innovation
Get involved
Apply
Come join a diverse cohort of five companies and accelerate your impact.
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