Empowering Local Developers, Strengthening Neighborhoods
Jumpstart Lehigh Valley is bringing a proven model of community development to our region. First launched in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, Jumpstart has inspired initiatives in dozens of communities—and now the Lehigh Valley is part of that movement. Our mission is to encourage small-scale, scattered-site development and expand opportunities for local residents to shape development in their own neighborhoods. Through training, mentoring, networking, and access to loans, the program supports aspiring real estate developers and helps keep ownership local.
ENROLLMENT IS NOW OPEN FOR THE 2026 JUMPSTART LEHIGH VALLEY TRAINING PROGRAM!
Join our upcoming cohort and gain the knowledge, tools, and network to pursue community-centered real estate investing with clarity and confidence.
We regularly host events designed to connect you with education, resources, and other real estate professionals in the Lehigh Valley. View our upcoming events and come introduce yourself — we would love to meet you.
This movement depends on people who believe neighborhoods are strongest when ownership stays local. Your support helps bring education and opportunity to more residents across the Lehigh Valley.
Community Investment
Expands opportunities for local residents to invest and develop within their own communities
Local Wealth
Keeps financial reinvestment local while empowering long-term residents to share in their community’s growth
Strengthening Neighborhoods
Revitalizes neighborhoods through scattered-site rehabilitation rather than large-scale urban renewal
Housing Balance
Creates housing and supports balanced options by blending affordable and market-rate units
Safety & Value
Strengthens neighborhood safety and long-term viability through responsible redevelopment
Investor Support & Diversity
Prepares first-time investors to qualify for traditional lending, broadens diversity in real estate development and provides opportunities to those who might otherwise be left out of the development process
Are you an aspiring or experienced real estate developer, real estate professional, or a community stakeholder? Jumpstart Lehigh Valley wants to hear from you!
What We Do
Jumpstart Lehigh Valley empowers residents of the Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton areas to invest in and strengthen their neighborhoods through hands-on support, resources and access to project funding.
Skill Development & Guidance
- Provides training to help residents understand community-focused development
- Offers free one-on-one mentoring for first-time investors
- Builds practical skills in project planning, financing, and neighborhood improvement
Community & Financial Support
- Creates networking opportunities with local developers, real estate professionals and community leaders
- Connects participants with potential partners and collaborators
- Offers access to loans and financial guidance to fund neighborhood projects
Jumpstart was created to reduce blight and increase investment in our communities. By offering opportunities for local entrepreneurs, we can keep wealth local. With Jumpstart, everyone wins – aspiring developers, longtime residents, and other community partners all benefit from additional investment in their neighborhood.
Ken Weinstein
Founder of Jumpstart Germantown and President of Philly Office Retail