In a new initiative to develop future leaders within the affordable housing industry, Cinnaire has partnered with the Housing Partnership Network (HPN) to launch the Next Gen Talent Academy, powered by Project Destined. This multi-week program is designed to fast-track careers in real estate development, asset management, financing, and operations. Through this collaboration, Cinnaire aims to provide young professionals with the knowledge, skills, and connections essential to succeed in the affordable housing industry.

“At Cinnaire, we are deeply committed to creating equitable pathways in the affordable housing industry, and partnering with Project Destined allows us to invest in the next generation of leaders who will shape this field,” said Josh Ghena, Senior Vice President, Syndication Funding. “Through the Next Gen Talent Academy, we’re equipping young professionals with the knowledge, experience, and mentorship essential for driving meaningful impact in our communities. By empowering these emerging voices, we’re not only strengthening our industry but also building more resilient, inclusive neighborhoods.”

Program Highlights

The Next Gen Talent Academy offers a comprehensive, hands-on curriculum to prepare participants for meaningful careers in real estate and community development, with a focus on affordable housing. Key components of the program include:

• Affordable Housing Certificate Course: Taught by a graduate school professor, this course provides participants with an in-depth understanding of affordable housing concepts and strategies.
• Site Visits to Affordable Housing Communities: Participants will experience real-world examples of affordable housing in action.
• Executive Speaker Sessions: Industry leaders from Cinnaire, HPN, and sponsors such as Jonathan Rose Companies, Rocky Mountain Communities, Movin’ Out Inc., Atlanta Neighborhood Development Partnership, National Housing Conference, Merritt Community Capital Corporation, and MassHousing will share insights and guidance.

Building on a Successful Foundation with Project Destined

Cinnaire’s collaboration with Project Destined reflects a shared commitment to empower the next generation of leaders through education and hands-on experience. Since 2021, Cinnaire has partnered with Project Destined to provide paid internships for 11th and 12th-grade students in Detroit, where participants learn the fundamentals of real estate, business, investment, and management. These students engage in live deal analysis with industry professionals, gaining both practical experience and mentorship.

The internship program has opened doors for many students, giving them early exposure to the real estate field and a deeper understanding of the impact affordable housing can have on communities.

Expanding Opportunities for College Students

With the launch of the Next Gen Talent Academy, Cinnaire is now expanding these opportunities to college students. This program immerses participants in a curriculum tailored to real estate development and community impact, helping them prepare for meaningful careers in affordable housing. The initiative creates a pipeline of diverse, skilled talent ready to enter the workforce and drive lasting change in communities.

Building on this success, the Next Gen Academy expands these opportunities to reach college students, immersing them in a curriculum tailored to the real estate and community development sectors with a particular focus on affordable housing. By extending our reach, we’re able to offer a more advanced, intensive learning experience for young adults preparing to enter the workforce. Cinnaire is committed to creating a pipeline of diverse, skilled talent ready to make a difference in affordable housing.

“We are excited to partner with Cinnaire and Housing Partnership Network to launch the Fall 2024 Next Gen (Affordable Housing) Talent Academy,” said Project Destined Co-founder, Cedric Bobo. “The Affordable Housing Sector provides incredible opportunities for students to build a great career and contribute to building equitable, resilient communities. This program will ensure that these students are ready to take on that challenge.”