Real Estate Diversity Initiative (REDI)

ULI Memphis Real Estate Diversity Initiative (REDI) is aimed at increasing the number of women and BIPOC engaged in ULI and the built environment. It helps those emerging developers learn what it takes to put together a successful development project.

“This program, paired with my current employer, advanced my knowledge of the local market by at least 8 years.”

Erik Stevenson, REDI graduate, Downtown Memphis Commission

REDI is a 13 to 15 week training and mentorship program that gives participants hands-on access to both comprehensive curriculum and real-world experience, walking them step-by-step through the real estate development process. Workshop modules, led by ULI volunteers, subject matter experts and leaders in the local built environment, begin in early April and end in late June. Outside the traditional classroom setting and modules, REDI participants are able to apply what they learn, while working in teams to create a development proposal for a real and local site.

REDI 2024 Application Now Open!

Those interested in participating in this year’s cohort will need to complete the ULI Memphis Real Estate Diversity Initiative | 2024 Application: HERE.

Note: The application deadline has been extended. Applications are NOW due by Monday, March 11, 2024 – 11:59 pm. Announcement of accepted participants to the cohort will be made Friday, March 22, 2024.

Who Should Apply?

  • Persons currently working in the real estate industry with an undergraduate degree or equivalent experience + a strong entrepreneurial spirit.
  • Persons currently working in the real estate industry interested in becoming a developer and/or project owner.
  • Persons currently working in the real estate industry who want to understand the bigger picture of real estate development.

Eligibility + Cost

  • Participation in the program requires a completed application + approved selection.
  • While REDI is generally taught at the 101 level, some modules are much more accessible to participants who have 1-2 years full-time work experience in the real estate industry. Preference will be given to these applicants.
  • Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate an already high level of motivation, participation and engagement in the real estate sector or built environment.
  • Anyone can apply, but strong preference is given to BIPOC + women.
  • 100% commitment + attendance in curriculum modules is required.
  • $100 registration fee required – payable upon acceptance to the program.

“Strongly recommend! As a realtor this opportunity broadens the value that I bring to the table.” 

Sherry Cole, REDI graduate

Cohort Selection

This year’s cohort will be selected by the ULI Memphis REDI Steering Committee. In advance of the applying, prospective applicants are asked to consider the following in self-ranking their real estate experience:

  • Advanced: Currently working in the real estate industry with a minimum of 5 years of full-time experience. Very familiar with real estate concepts/ideas.
  • Intermediate: Currently working in the real estate industry with 2-4 years of full-time experience (construction, architect, broker, etc.). Demonstrated knowledge of real estate concepts/ideas.
  • Beginner: Some knowledge of real estate, but eager to learn more. Must demonstrate knowledge of real estate concepts/ideas and how they will apply the knowledge gained through their personal statement and reference letters.

The REDI program is competitive. It is not unusual for applicants to apply multiple times before being accepted to an upcoming cohort. Not everyone who is qualified is accepted. Cohort sizes range from 20-30 people and the final count is based on having three(3) balanced “development teams” within the cohort.

Participant Benefits

  • Mentoring + Education
  • New network of allied professionals
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Textbooks | Professional Real Estate Development: The ULI Guide to the Business + Building Small: A Toolkit for Real Estate Entrepreneurs, Civic Leaders, and Great Communities
  • Complimentary one-year membership to ULI, with access to more than 45,000 members worldwide, representing the entire spectrum of the land use and development.

For more information, please contact us at [email protected].