The development of small-scale residential projects (such as townhomes, small-plexes, ADUs and rehabilitations) within existing cities can help mitigate the housing affordability crisis and climate change crisis at the same time. The Alameda County Small Developer Incubator program engages small, independent developers and government officials working in Alameda County communities in two initial trainings. We hope to spark collaboration through a cross-sector cohort that can develop the industry and skilled workforce needed to accelerate and ease the construction of decarbonized, small-scale infill projects.
This program fosters the important relationship between developers and the municipal staff who are responsible for the permitting of development projects. It is designed to catalyze emerging and start-up small-scale developers, or individuals interested in entering the industry, by providing the tools and resources necessary to carry out development projects. Simultaneously, it supports local government staff working in development, city management, economic development, planning, and related departments. Municipal practitioners will learn about opportunities to realize their community’s development potential, as well as the barriers that impede small-scale projects. Other professionals that contribute to a local development ecosystem, such as bankers, appraisers, brokers, and builders, are also encouraged to attend.
Convenings
Alameda County Small Developer Incubator
February 6, 2025 | 5:30-7:30pm | Oakstop
2323 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612
This one-hour introductory lecture followed by a period of Q&A is open to anyone interested in small-scale development, from experienced professionals to curious newcomers. It will introduce future training opportunities, answer questions, provide light networking time, and collect feedback on the local development landscape. IncDev Faculty will present core concepts of Incremental Development and facilitate connections among attendees, including potential future cohort members.
2. Small Scale Development Workshop
The full day Small Developer Workshop will guide small developers and government officials on how to effectively work with each other and contribute to the building of regenerative, equitable communities.
The session is proposed to include the following major sections/elements:
This is considered a baseline training which will be open to the public, and available for those at all levels/professions.
Outcomes
Small developers, local governments and other building industry practitioners will develop a more common understanding of pre-development considerations as well as local procedures, zoning regulations, inspection protocols, and code pathways. Participation will help build relationships to navigate the development process, and present networking opportunities for finding mentors, business partners, contractors, tradespeople, and other industry professionals and peers.
A limited number of scholarships are available to individuals demonstrating financial need.
Registration Information
Registration fees: $150 Early Bird, $170 Regular, $190 Last Minute
Local Host Committee
This committee provides input on the training content and regional landscape, and is made up of folks actively working on building and development in Alameda County.
AIA East Bay BIG Oakland Capital Impact Partners LISC Oakland Builders Alliance East Bay Economic Development Alliance Terner Labs City of Hayward City of Fremont City of Oakland
For more information about the Alameda County Host Committee, please contact Heather Larson at [email protected].
Partners & Sponsors
In partnership with Build It Green and PLACE Initiative, this program will be facilitated by the Incremental Development Alliance (Inc Dev), with curriculum based on their community development engagements and national training events.
The introductory events are being sponsored by StopWaste, a public agency that advances the responsible use of resources in Alameda County and beyond.
There is a sister program in partnership with the City of Sacramento.
Alex Coba
Communication Associate
As a proud California native from Stockton, Alex brings a wealth of experience and a versatile skill set. He has a solid communication background with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Public Relations from California State University, Chico. Alex is adept at strategic communications and media relations, with experience gathering and sharing stories from his local communities that uplift the unique spirit and values of those places. He is excited to join Build It Green, where he can apply his talents to further BIG’s mission to help communities across California thrive