1DROP Joins HUD's Developers of Color Forum to Advocate for Equity in Development

On September 17, 2024, HUD’s Washington State Field Office hosted the Developers of Color Forum in Tacoma, Washington, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and financial institutions to discuss the challenges and opportunities for developers of color. The event, held in downtown Tacoma, offered a powerful platform for dialogue on increasing representation and access to capital for BIPOC developers. Among the distinguished panelists was Reggie Brown (Louis Rudolph Homes) and Dominique Remy (Remy Construction), co-founders of 1DROP, who joined other industry leaders to share insights on overcoming systemic barriers and driving community-centered development.

The forum kicked off with opening remarks by HUD Regional Administrator Andrew Lofton and a welcome from Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards. A highlight of the event was the Developers of Color Panel, moderated by Tacoma City Council Member Kiara Daniels (and 1DROP member,), which featured 1DROP's Reggie Brown (Louis Rudolph Homes) and Dominique Remy (Remy Construction) alongside other prominent developers such as Andrew Colas of Colas Construction and Leslie Byrd of Alpha Sharp Development. The panelists engaged in a candid discussion on the challenges they face in accessing resources and funding, emphasizing the need for supportive policies that foster inclusivity in real estate.

Dominique Remy, presenting on the 1DROP initiative and it’s innovative approach to supporting the growth of developers of color to increase housing supply.

Following the panel discussions, HUD facilitated sessions connecting developers with private lenders, community financial institutions, and philanthropic organizations, including BECU, LISC, and Business Impact NW. These sessions provided valuable networking opportunities for developers seeking funding and highlighted innovative lending programs designed to support mixed-income and affordable housing developments. 1DROP’s involvement underscored its commitment to creating equitable pathways for developers of color, reinforcing HUD’s mission to foster economic opportunity and diversity in the industry.

The forum concluded with personal journeys from leaders like Claude Remy of 1DROP, who shared his experiences in real estate development and his vision for creating generational wealth through inclusive projects, and HUD presenting an award. The event solidified 1DROP’s role as a key player in advocating for housing equity and underscored HUD's commitment to supporting minority-led initiatives. By fostering partnerships and raising awareness, the Developers of Color Forum set the stage for transformative change in urban development across the Pacific Northwest.

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