WOMEN'S SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE (WSDI)
Funding & resources for women in CRE development
WOMEN'S SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE (WSDI)
Funding & resources for women in CRE development
WSDI - We ARE the NEXT STEP
The Women's Sustainable Development Initiative (WSDI) is a non-profit organization based in Michigan with a clear mission: to empower emerging women in the field of commercial real estate development, to undertake projects in economically disadvantaged areas that incorporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.
WSDI is dedicated to achieving this mission by offering financial support, educational resources, and valuable networking opportunities exclusively to women involved in commercial real estate development.
We serve as the next crucial step for women developers who have completed the necessary education and training required to embark on their real estate projects.
2024 WE BUILD PROGRAM
The Women Empowered to Build (WE Build) program was created to accelerate the fundability, stability and growth of the women-led businesses and women-led nonprofit organizations in real estate development. Cinnaire and WSDI are committed to paving a new path toward local wealth building, an inclusive economic opportunity, and collective resources to help women developers grow their careers and support communities. 2024 WE Build Program Cohorts included 10 cohorts with projects currently under construction and in progress.
WSDI - WE ARE THE NEXT STEP - supporting and mentoring women to access capital for their commercial real estate projects!
Next training session in 2026. Are you ready?
If you want to stay updated then please go to the Home page and create an account. And, please check in here for new information and updates.
WSDI Supporter
Beanstalk Property Management isn't your average property management firm. We're creative thinkers dedicated to crafting exceptional tenant experiences. With big ideas and meticulous attention to detail, we work diligently to bring positive, profitable changes to our clients. Our passion is turning buildings into inviting spaces that people love to be in, creating memorable experiences for all the right reasons.
One Time Donation and Sponsorship
One-Time Donation and Sponsorship
We extend a warm invitation to you to contribute to WSDI and champion our vital mission. Your generous donation is tax-deductible.
To make a single donation, simply click the link below.
You can also donate two other ways:
1. Write a check - Please mail check to Women's Sustainable Development Initiative, 607 Shelby Street, Detroit, Michigan 48226
2. Zelle payments - Via Zelle, select as a vendor - Women's Sustainable Development Initiative, 607 Shelby Street, Detroit, Michigan 48226. Enter enter your donation or sponsorship amount and click send.
donation - monthly
Monthly Donation
Ready to amplify your impact? That's amazing! You can take it to the next level by becoming a part of our monthly donation program through WSDI's 100WOMENinCRE initiative. To explore this opportunity and start making monthly contributions, just click the link below.
Your ongoing support is incredibly meaningful to us!"
press release
WE BUILD PROGRAM LAUNCHES TO FOSTER GROWTH IN DETROIT WOMEN DEVELOPERS
January 16, 2024
Historically, women have faced barriers to success in the commercial real estate development industry. Cinnaire, in collaboration with the Women’s Sustainable Development Initiative (WSDI), is addressing those barriers with the launch of the Women Empowered to Build (WE Build) Program in Detroit. This pioneering initiative is a yearlong free training and mentoring program kicking off this week in Michigan. Cinnaire and WSDI joined forces to accelerate the fundability, stability and growth of women-led businesses and women-led nonprofits in real estate development.
WSDI’s president Karen Burton said, “This collaborative initiative reflects our shared commitment to fostering diversity, inclusivity, and belonging within the commercial real estate sector. By combining WSDI’s dedication to advancing women in development with Cinnaire’s expertise in equitable community development, we are excited to provide a comprehensive curriculum that equips women with the skills and knowledge to excel at developing property. Together, we aim to create an accelerated learning experience that not only empowers women in the field but also contributes to the growth and sustainability of vibrant communities in Michigan.”
The 10 women selected have active projects that represent diverse areas across Michigan including Detroit, Ann Arbor, Mackinac City, Inkster, Pontiac, Muskegon Heights. These projects are expected to serve as economic catalysts to the surrounding areas and bring much needed affordable housing units to these markets.
Additionally, Cinnaire Community Connection will play a pivotal role in funding the projects through Recoverable Grants, allowing the developers to leverage flexible funding for their pre-development work.
The next WE Build cohort will be held in 2026.
For more information, please visit www.cinnaire.com and www.womendevelop.org.
GUEST PANELISTS
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible panelists who graced the first day of the 2024 WE Build program with their inspiring stories and insights. From left to right, Karen AD Burton (SpaceLabDetroit), Nya Marshall (DIOMO, LLC), Brinda Devine (P8 Real Estate Solutions), Jill Ferarri (Renovare Development), Sonya Mays (Develop Detroit), and Lisa Johanon (Central Detroit Christian CDC). Your presence and wisdom have truly enriched our program. 🙏🌟 #Gratitude #WEBuild #CommunityLeaders
testimonials
"The WSDI Focus Group has been a great in terms of learning and building my development skills. It is a safe place to comfortably expose your eficiencies/shortcoming, get positive feedback and grow your understanding and knowledge. I love the synergy of the group and look forward to the creative ideas and innovations that always come out of our discussions". - Beverly Beard
"WSDI has been such a gamer changer for me. I have learned so much from everyone involved. The founding board members have gone above and beyond to making themselves available for any guidance or expertise I needed. WSDI has opened my eyes to some many things in the land use/ development sector. I am so grateful to be apart of this amazing group and to know these phenomenal women". - Aftan Malone
"The insights I have learned from this group has help me move my project forward with a greater understanding of what's needed to reach the finish line. The inspiration of hearing other women's journey and the resources they freely share is priceless. We were provided access to the ULI Spring event, and I was able to have a vendor table to show my renderings and discuss my project with the attendees. I am looking forward to being in this empowering group until I break ground". -
Kimle Nailer, Nail-Rite Construction Company, Inc.
" Whether the developer is in the ideate or construction phase, WSDI has provided a relevant safe meeting place for emerging female developers. WSDI has provided not only resources, but a sisterhood of mentors and mentees that offers support in assisting emerging developers over the hurdles of Michigan development processes and encouragement when navigating what can seem like tough terrain in new territory". -Ronita Coleman
"I have been working in various fields of real estate for over 20 years. I worked for real estate developers for over 10 years and I learn something new in every session with WSDI. I’m embarking upon my own first new construction developments and having WSDI as a source of information for things that arise gives me confidence that I can successfully navigate the development process. Truly a blessing ". – Samantha Jenkins