BLDG Memphis' public policy and advocacy platform centers on creating sound policies and solutions that drive investment into Memphis neighborhoods. We believe that community development corporations (CDCS) are the backbone of our city’s neighborhoods and are thus critical to the development and redevelopment of Memphis communities. 

Among the overarching goals of BLDG Memphis’ advocacy work are 

Affordable Housing

Economic Development

Pedestrian Safety

Transit

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  Community Development Policy Coalition

  A collaborative network of CDCs, nonprofits, public agencies, financial institutions, and strategic partners working to strengthen Memphis neighborhoods.

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  Public Policy Priorities

  BLDG Memphis advocates for policies that drive meaningful investment into Memphis neighborhoods. We champion community development corporations (CDCs) as vital leaders in building and revitalizing strong, thriving communities.

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  Community Development Bookclub

  A community that reads together, grows together. The Community Development Book Club explores ideas and lessons that can strengthen Memphis. Join the conversation and help shape what’s next.

How We Drive Change

BLDG Memphis convenes the Community Development Policy Coalition (CDPC) composed primarily of active members who represent community development corporations (CDCs), non-profit organizations, government/quasi government agencies, financial institutions and key strategic partners that work across Memphis neighborhoods.

That body sets an Annual Policy Agenda which establishes community development policy priorities, recommendations, and goals for the upcoming year. According to the priorities the BLDG Memphis CDPC, 

1. Tracks and advocates for equitable, transparent, and community informed policies at the local, state, and federal level.

2. Conducts policy research, publishing reports and policy briefs that promote the need and impact of CDCs.

3. Leads and participates in grassroots advocacy campaigns that drive economic and social investment into typically disinvested Memphis neighborhoods and families.

4. Convenes collaborative learning tables and civic forums that engage and educate Memphis residents and practitioners on important community development policy issues such as land use, transit and mobility, affordable housing, economic development, green spaces, blight, and solid waste.