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City of Montgomery • In partnership with Grow America

SEED Academy – Supporting Empowered Emerging Developers

A week‑long, hands‑on program to equip start‑up and emerging real estate developers with the knowledge, tools, and technical support to deliver projects in Montgomery.

Apply Starting September 2025

About the Program

The Supporting Empowered Emerging Developers (SEED) Academy will engage up to 25 participants in a week‑long, intensive, high‑impact experience blending training, technical assistance, and real‑world application.

Delivered with Grow America, the Academy aligns with Montgomery’s priorities in housing security, climate resilience, economic mobility, and neighborhood revitalization.

“Housing is the foundation. 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.”
— Mayor Steven L. Reed

Program Highlights

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

Who Should Apply

  • Start‑up and emerging real estate developers
  • Entrepreneurs pursuing housing or small‑business development
  • Practitioners ready to move into development (architects, GC’s, brokers, nonprofit partners)

Eligibility:

  • Must be a resident of the City of Montgomery.
  • Display a strong commitment to residential and commercial development in the City of Montgomery.
  • Willingness to commit to the entire duration of the program.

 

How to Apply

  1. Review eligibility and expectations
  2. Prepare a brief statement of interest and CV/resume (project concept optional)
  3. Submit your application when the portal opens in early September 2025
Apply Starting September 2025

Partners

  • City of Montgomery — Lead local partner
  • Grow America — National nonprofit program delivery and curriculum

Learn more about the SEED Academy model

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a site or project in hand?

Helpful, but not required. The Academy will show you how to evaluate opportunities and shape a feasible concept.

Is there a fee?

$200 Program Fee

What’s the weekly time commitment?
October 13–17 – Pre-Work & Cohort Meet & Greet

  • October 13–17 – Pre-Work & Cohort Meet & Greet

  • October 20–25 – Core Instruction Week (9 am - 5 pm daily)

  • Wednesday, November 25 – Capstone Presentations

All times are mandatory

Will I receive a certificate?

Participants will receive hands-on support from industry professionals. Grow America staff will provide SEED Academy participants with post-academy technical assistance for twelve (12) months after completing the Core Instruction and Capstone phase. 

Contact

Media & Program Inquiries: Amerika Blair, Innovation Team Director — ablair@montgomeryal.gov