We help people access jobs, start businesses, and grow wealth locally, in close collaboration with Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Miles College CDC recognizes the vital role Historically Black Colleges and Universities play in shaping future leaders and driving economic development. Through strategic collaborations with local HBCUs, we are creating pathways for students, entrepreneurs, and communities to thrive.
HBCU partnership
Hands-on learningIn partnership with HBCUs, Miles College CDC develops workforce training initiatives that equip students and local residents with the skills needed for high-demand industries. These programs focus on job readiness, technical certifications, and career advancement in fields such as construction, real estate development, financial literacy, and community planning.
By connecting students with real-world experience and professional mentorship, we are preparing the next generation of skilled professionals and leaders.
Miles College CDC actively involves HBCU students in meaningful community engagement, including affordable housing projects, policy research, and urban planning initiatives. Through service-learning programs, internships, and research collaborations, students gain hands-on experience while contributing to real solutions that impact their communities. Leadership development workshops and civic engagement opportunities empower students to become advocates for equitable housing and economic justice.
These stories showcase the impact of our HBCU collaborations, bridging education, workforce development, and community empowerment to create lasting change.
Through our partnership with Miles College, we launched a Workforce Training Academy providing hands-on experience in real estate development and affordable housing construction. Jamal Carter, a senior studying business administration, gained certifications in project management and financial literacy, and after completing the training secured a full-time position with a local housing development firm.
Our Business Incubator Program, in collaboration with Miles College, provided Kendra Robinson with the mentorship and funding to launch Urban Roots Realty, a firm dedicated to helping first-time homebuyers from underserved communities. Today she has helped over 50 families secure affordable housing and mentors other HBCU students.
A group of Miles College students worked with us on a Community Housing Impact Study, analyzing systemic barriers to homeownership in Birmingham's historically Black neighborhoods. Their research contributed to policy recommendations that led to a new down payment assistance program. Jessica Wells, one of the researchers, is now pursuing a career in urban planning.
As part of a partnership with Miles College, architecture and engineering students participated in a Housing Revitalization Project, designing and helping renovate abandoned homes. Malik Johnson played a key role in drafting blueprints for energy-efficient homes, work that led to an internship with a major urban development firm.
Tell us about your neighborhood, your organization, or how you would like to partner. We welcome residents, funders, and fellow nonprofits alike.