City of Montgomery Launches SEED Academy to Cultivate Emerging Real Estate Developers

MONTGOMERY, AL - The City of Montgomery is proud to announce the launch of the Supporting Empowered Emerging Developers (SEED) Academy, a bold, hands-on initiative designed to equip start-up and emerging real estate developers with the knowledge, tools, and technical support needed to succeed in Montgomery's evolving housing and small business ecosystem.

Set to launch this fall, SEED Academy will be delivered in partnership with national nonprofit Grow America, a leader in capacity-building for diverse and emerging developers. The Academy will engage up to 25 participants in a week-long, intensive, high-impact experience that blends training, technical assistance, and real-world application.

"Housing is the foundation," said Mayor Reed. "By preparing our housing stock as the first line of defense against climate risks, and as a pathway to build wealth, we are investing in people and places that can thrive. SEED Academy is a direct response to that vision."

Program Highlights Include:

• Pre-Academy Groundwork: Landscape survey, steering committee formation, and participant selection support
• Core Instruction & Capstone Project: Technical and practical training aligned with Montgomery's development priorities
• Post-Academy Technical Assistance: Continued guidance to help participants launch and scale development projects

Grow America will lead the program's full delivery, including personnel, services, and materials, bringing a decade of experience and a strong track record of success. The initiative directly supports the City's goals around housing security, climate resilience, economic mobility, and neighborhood revitalization.

Applications for the SEED Academy will open in the first week of September 2025. For additional details and updates, please contact City of Montgomery Director, Innovation Team Amerika Blair at 334-625-4314.

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