Throughout the year, real estate and finance professionals gather at key conferences to network, exchange innovative ideas, and explore the future of their industries.
At FCI, we seize these opportunities to engage with industry leaders, share our experiences, and enhance our collaboration in an ever-evolving marketplace. Today, we’re sharing insights from the recent Wisconsin Real Estate Alumni Association (WREAA) Trends Conference, attended by our own Portia Adney, along with a preview of the upcoming conferences our team will be attending later this year.
Highlights from the WREAA Trends Conference
Portia Adney, FCI’s Partner Relations Manager, reflects on her experience: On September 13th, the Wisconsin Real Estate Alumni Association hosted its annual Trends Conference, with this year’s theme, “Revitalizing Urban Spaces”. As a proud alumna of the UW Graaskamp Center for Real Estate, I was eager to attend and gain fresh perspectives on issues like affordability, equity, and sustainability in real estate.
The conference featured a diverse panel of experts, including developers, academics, real estate professionals, and even the Chicago Housing Commissioner. Much of the discussion focused on tax incentives and innovative initiatives from Illinois and New York, which are designed to increase the availability of high-quality, affordable housing by incentivizing developers through inclusionary housing tax credits.
Renowned author Dr. Richard Florida highlighted the role of diverse communities—including ethnic minorities, the LGBTQ+ community, and the “creative class”—in driving economic growth. Developer Jeff Shapack also shared his experiences in revitalizing distressed urban neighborhoods, showcasing the transformative impact of tax incentives.
These insights deeply resonated with FCI’s mission, and I left the conference feeling energized and inspired to continue our work in creating a brighter future for Wisconsin.
Upcoming Conferences
Looking ahead, our team will be attending several key conferences across the Midwest and beyond. Each event promises rich discussions and insights into the latest trends shaping our industry.
- Digital Marketing for Financial Services Midwest Summit: October 8-10, Chicago, IL
This summit will bring together leaders in marketing, digital strategy, and growth from top financial brands across North America. Topics include sustainability, cutting-edge technologies, and the role of data in empowering financial organizations. DMFS Midwest Summit (financialdigitalmarketingmidwest.com)
- The Diverse Developers Conference: October 10, Chicago, IL
FCI is proud to collaborate on this event, which focuses on building sustainable and resilient communities. The conference will convene commercial real estate professionals, policy experts, and educators from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds to foster technical support, facilitate deal-making, and share resources. Diverse Developers
- WI Real Estate & Economic Outlook Conference: October 11, University of Wisconsin-Madison:
Centered on the theme “Let’s Make Housing Happen: Opening Doors for All,” this event will feature experts from the public and private sectors discussing solutions to the housing shortage and its impact on affordability. Click here to learn more: 2024 Wisconsin Real Estate & Economic Outlook Conference | Wisconsin School of Business
- OFN 40th Anniversary Conference (OFN40): October 21-24, Los Angeles, CA
The Opportunity Finance Network celebrates its 40th year of supporting Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). This year’s event is expected to be its largest, featuring panels and sessions designed to enhance work in underserved communities. OFN Conference for the CDFI Industry | OFN
- Diverse & Emerging Developers Symposium / Freddie Mac Multifamily Impact Summit: October 22-23, McLean, VA
FCI’s Senior Community Lender, Fausto Rivera, will attend these events focused on the trends shaping multi-family housing development, with a particular focus on affordable housing.
- 365 Leadership Summit: October 28, Madison, WI
This event brings together Wisconsin’s most influential leaders of color to discuss community-building, tackling key issues, and developing strategies for progress. 365 Leadership Summit — 365 Leadership Summit (wileadershipsummit.com)
- WHEDA Conference 2024: November 18-19, Madison, WI
Hosted by the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority, this conference will spotlight industry leaders and innovative projects advancing equity in Wisconsin’s housing sector. WHEDA Conference 2024 | WHEDA
If you’ll be attending any of these events, don’t hesitate to say hello to our FCI team members! We look forward to connecting and sharing insights that will help shape the future of our industries.
