The first Jumpstart Lehigh Valley training cohort is currently in session. Thank you to everyone who applied and participated in our inaugural program. Enrollment for the Spring 2026 cohort is now closed. To hear about future opportunities—including our planned Spring 2027 training program and Fall 2026 speaker series—please sign up for our email list and follow Jumpstart Lehigh Valley on Facebook or on Instagram for updates.
“In my experience, the only things aspiring developers are
missing are know-how and capital. Jumpstart provides
the training, mentors, networking, and loan financing
options they need to succeed.”
—Ken Weinstein, President of Philly Office Retail and Founder of Jumpstart Germantown
For Those Ready to Build, Learn, and Lead Locally
Who the Program Is For
The training is designed for aspiring real estate developers, small investors, property owners, and community members who want to understand how real estate development works from a practical, community-oriented perspective. No prior real estate development experience is required. Eligibility is open to Lehigh Valley residents, with limited spots potentially available to individuals from outside the region if space permits.
What Participants Gain
Graduates of the Jumpstart training program gain both technical knowledge and ongoing support, including:
• A clear framework for understanding the development process through live sessions and our Jumpstart workbook
• Greater confidence to pursue real estate projects responsibly
• Exposure to experienced developers and local professionals
• A peer network of fellow participants
• Pathways to lending
• Access to ongoing mentoring at no additional cost
A Proven Model, Led by Local Experience.
Meet Nancy Larcom O’Brien
Director and Lead Instructor of Jumpstart Lehigh Valley
Jumpstart Lehigh Valley is led by Nancy Larcom O’Brien, a graduate of the original Jumpstart program and an experienced real estate investor and property manager. A former Philadelphia math teacher, she brings a strong instructional background along with hands-on development experience. As coordinator and lead presenter, she tailors the Jumpstart curriculum to the Lehigh Valley and leads the training sessions with support from guest speakers and local industry experts.
The Jumpstart Model — Created by Ken Weinstein
The Jumpstart curriculum and national Jumpstart model were created by Ken Weinstein, a seasoned real estate developer with decades of experience revitalizing residential and commercial properties in Philadelphia. Through his work with Philly Office Retail, he has overseen the renovation of hundreds of homes and commercial spaces. He launched Jumpstart to empower local developers with practical training, mentorship, and access to networks. The Jumpstart model has since expanded to multiple cities nationwide.
Build the Skills. Build the Network. Build Locally.
- Practical, real-world investor training
- Supportive cohort and ongoing mentorship
- A pathway into responsible local ownership
