This is the final week to submit applications for The National Apartment Association (NAA) Innovation in Diversity Grant (IDI). The program aims to advance diversity and inclusion in the rental housing industry through impactful education and hiring practices. NAA seeks to “inspire the next generation and strengthen those whom we work and exist to serve.” To do so, NAA has designated $25,000 per fiscal year towards the IDI grant. NAA member associations, property management firms, supplier partners and related organizations are eligible to apply. Creating a more equitable multifamily industry To qualify, participants are encouraged to align their program objectives with the ideals of the NAA Diversity and Inclusion Vision Statement. Additionally, the proposals must reflect the NAA’s dedication to an inclusive and supportive workforce environment that is rich in diversity. Applicants must propose innovative ideas that will result in meaningful contributions to the multifamily industry. NAA supports projects that fall into three main categories: Education Programs should demonstrate methods to improve diversity, inclusion and awareness within the applicant’s organization. Leadership Programs should enhance the presence of diversity among leadership and boards within their organizations. Such programs may create specialized training tracks for marginalized groups. D&I Projects Programs should bolster the presence of underrepresented groups at all levels in the industry. Opportunities may include but are not limited to scholarships and innovative steps towards more equitable hiring practices. Selecting finalists Applications will be received by the NAA Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Evaluators analyze each applicant’s potential for measurable outcomes, detailed budget, program timeline and support of NAA’s Diversity & Inclusion vision. Home Depot Pro: supporting diversity and inclusion in multifamily housing Home Depot Pro is a proud sponsor of the IDI Grant. The world’s largest home improvement retailer released a statement, stating, “We are...

Yardi recently sponsored and participated in an event hosted by the Empire Club of Canada. The panel talk, titled “The Evolution of the Real Estate Industry — Diversity, Culture and the Workplace,” focused on the commercial market. Established in 1903, the Empire Club of Canada is an influential forum for leaders in various industries and cultural organizations. Every generation, but especially Baby Boomers and millennials, has a major impact on various sectors of real estate. The Empire Club panel broadened the discussion to include gender and racial diversity. The hope was to motivate industry leaders to increase the presence and influence of women and minorities in the Canadian real estate industry. The panel included Scott Addison, President, Brokerage Services Canada, Colliers International; Toni Rossi, President, Real Estate Division, Infrastructure Ontario; and Michael Brooks, CEO, Real Property Association of Canada. Serving as moderator was Sheila Botting, National Real Estate Leader in Canada and a partner at Deloitte. Driving Change Botting compared a thriving work culture to an ecosystem. No ecosystem can be homogeneous — diversity is crucial for ongoing growth and survival. “Diversity drives productivity, profitability and better outcomes for everyone involved,” Botting said. Addison commented that the first thing that needs to happen to drive change is awareness. He has personally observed a lack of gender diversity in the brokerage arena. To address this issue,  Colliers set up campus recruiting and other hiring programs led by women to help balance the gender gap. Rossi, representing Infrastructure Ontario, said the organization is fortunate to have a 50/50 gender balance in its leadership.  That has been established thanks to direction by the federal government, especially during the Trudeau administration. Rossi outlined three key things she believes can prompt change: Leadership: set a target (not a quota) for...