Our Mission
Small Developers of KC is a grassroots initiative focused on building capacity for citizen-developers seeking the knowledge, support, and connections to improve their own neighborhoods.
The large-scale real estate industry is not well-suited to implement the scale of development many neighborhoods need.
Our neighborhoods are made up of small, intricate projects that demand local entrepreneurs who possess a deep understanding of and commitment to their communities. Large, institutional developers often aren’t equipped to address the unique scale of these reinvestment efforts. The real estate industry today is designed to execute large-scale projects, relies heavily on specialization, and tends to shy away from risk. This often leaves local residents out of the conversation, with their involvement in development being reactive and superficial at best.
However, we believe that, with the right resources and mindset, residents can play a more significant and proactive role in shaping the future of their neighborhoods. Whether through partnerships, sharing expertise, or creatively utilizing financial tools, we all have a part to play in fostering a more localized approach to community development. Together, we can build neighborhoods that reflect the true spirit and needs of those who live there, ensuring that growth is both sustainable and inclusive.
A shared understanding about what makes projects work financially is critical for equitable reinvestment.
Development finance may not be rocket science, but it is a specialized field that requires understanding and collaboration. One of the greatest challenges we face is a lack of consensus on what truly makes development projects financially viable. This misunderstanding often fuels the tensions between the private and public sectors, slowing progress and innovation. Unfortunately, well-meaning policies can unintentionally raise barriers to entry, making it harder for small-scale developers to thrive, particularly those with limited resources.
The Small Developers of KC initiative was created with intentionality—to bridge these gaps. We welcome people from all backgrounds, including public staff and officials, because we believe that diverse perspectives drive real change. Our mission is to foster open, honest dialogue about the realities of real estate development and to explore innovative solutions that promote locally-driven reinvestment. By championing these efforts, we aim to build wealth within neighborhoods, empowering residents and developers alike to create thriving, sustainable communities that reflect the aspirations of those who call them home.
Citybuilding can be both a business and a local craft.
Acquiring, developing, and managing real estate requires practical knowledge, but small-scale development demands something deeper—a long-term vision and a profound understanding of place. It’s not just about structures; it’s about the people and the stories that make a community unique. We believe that this approach cultivates a culture of thoughtful, intentional development—a craft that shapes our neighborhoods not only physically, but socially. By integrating this mindset into how we build, we create spaces that endure and truly reflect the needs and aspirations of those who live in them.
