SOUTH BEND, IN
Back in 2016, Mike Keen (one of our founders!) rallied the community to bring the Incremental Development Alliance to South Bend. This effort led to a series of improvements to zoning, establishing incentive programs, development of pre-approved plans, and so much more.
In 2020 and 2021, Jim Kumon, Mike and Monte worked with the City of South Bend on the “Build South Bend” website to get all resources all in one.
In 2022, Bernice, Monte, Jim and Mike joined forces to expand our efforts in building the ecosystem. We hosted a long weekend of events: happy hour, one-on-one meetings with small scale developers, banks, and potential champions and a brunch meeting where we discussed financing and deal structure. You can read about the 2022 work here in Strong Towns!
2023 was a banner year for our efforts - with one visit totaling over 30 million dollars worth of work happening in the City!
We’re looking forward to 2026, where our work will continue to assist developers and town makers with their small scale development needs!
OUR NEXT EVENT
Explore small-scale development in action during our South Bend excursion—tour projects, meet local leaders, and build your network.
Join Neighborhood Evolution for an immersive field experience in South Bend, Indiana—home to one of the most dynamic small-scale development ecosystems in the country. This hands-on excursion is designed for aspiring developers, civic leaders, planners, and community builders eager to see what happens when grassroots energy meets strategic reinvestment.
Please register through our eventbrite page!
