How to Assemble the Right Team for Your Equitable Development Project

Introduction

Equitable development is a team sport. From architects and general contractors to community organizers and legal counsel, the success of a mission-driven project depends heavily on the people guiding it. Assembling the right team early in the process can help you avoid costly mistakes, strengthen community trust, and keep your development aligned with its core values.

This post outlines the essential roles on an equitable development team, how to identify the right professionals, and how to build a collaborative structure that supports your goals from planning through post-occupancy.

1. Core Team Members and Their Roles

Developer or Development Lead
The visionary and project coordinator. In many cases, this is you. You set the tone, secure financing, and ensure that the mission of equitable development stays front and center.

Real Estate Agent or Advisor
An agent with local expertise can help source the right site, negotiate favorable terms, and provide insight into neighborhood dynamics and city processes.

Architect and Urban Planner
Equity-focused architects can integrate accessibility, sustainability, and cultural relevance into the design. Urban planners can help align your vision with community needs and zoning requirements.

General Contractor or Construction Manager
You’ll want a builder who understands the nuances of community-sensitive construction. Look for firms with experience hiring local labor and managing complex projects within budget.

Zoning Attorney or Land Use Specialist
Navigating Chicago’s zoning process can be challenging. A land use attorney can interpret requirements, represent you during hearings, and help mitigate legal risk.

Community Engagement Consultant or Liaison
A trusted community intermediary ensures you’re building with—not for—the neighborhood. This person or firm helps gather input and builds support with local residents and stakeholders.

Financial Consultant or Tax Credit Specialist
Equitable development often involves complex capital stacks, including grants, tax credits, and low-interest financing. You’ll need someone to help you strategize and secure funding.

2. How to Find the Right People

• Look for mission alignment. Beyond qualifications, your team should share your values around equity and community impact.

• Tap into local networks. Attend community development meetings, join local real estate associations, and ask for referrals from nonprofits or neighborhood groups.

• Prioritize lived experience. Professionals who have worked or lived in the neighborhoods you’re targeting bring invaluable insight.

• Review past projects. Ask to see case studies, references, and documentation showing a commitment to inclusion, affordability, and community engagement.

3. Structuring Your Team for Collaboration

• Set clear roles and responsibilities early. Avoid duplication or gaps in decision-making.

• Establish a regular meeting schedule. This promotes communication and keeps everyone aligned.

• Use shared project management tools. Platforms like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com can help streamline workflows.

• Encourage mutual accountability. Your team should not only be accountable to you, but to each other—and the community.

4. What to Watch Out For

• Misalignment on values. A technically strong architect or attorney who dismisses the equity lens can derail your goals.

• Inexperience in public-private or community-focused projects. Be cautious of firms whose portfolios don’t reflect your type of development.

• Communication breakdowns. Early warning signs include missed meetings, vague timelines, and finger-pointing over responsibilities.

5. How I Can Help

As a commercial real estate advisor who specializes in equitable development in Chicago, I can:

• Recommend vetted professionals who share your mission

• Help you build a balanced team based on your project’s scope and budget

• Facilitate introductions to community leaders, city officials, and funding sources

• Provide continuity as your advisor throughout the life of the project

Conclusion

The right team doesn’t just execute your vision—it shapes it. Thoughtful team-building is one of the most strategic decisions you’ll make as an equitable developer. If you’re assembling your team and want guidance on where to start, let’s connect.