ACBN Affordable Housing Initiative
At ACBN, we understand that affordable housing is not just a basic necessity but a critical foundation for entrepreneurial success.
Stable housing allows entrepreneurs to focus on growing their businesses without the constant stress of housing insecurity.
The affordable housing crisis in Ontario disproportionately affects marginalized communities, including African and Caribbean entrepreneurs who often face additional economic and social barriers.
Through our Affordable Housing Initiative, we aim to bridge this gap by developing safe, affordable living spaces that empower business owners, their families and the wider community to thrive. This initiative aligns with our mission to foster a supportive community where entrepreneurs can access the resources they need to succeed.
Through strategic partnerships and community-driven projects, we are committed to creating sustainable housing solutions that support the holistic development of our members, ensuring they have the stability to innovate, grow, and contribute to the broader economy.
- Multi-family Real Estate Development
- Housing programming (Rent-to-own, Rent geared to income etc.)
- Wrap-around supports for entrepreneurs
Our Housing Crisis
Rising Costs
- 71.4% of renters in Ontario with incomes between $20,000 and $40,000 are spending 30% or more of their income on shelter costs.
- Almost a third of all households are struggling with housing affordability challenges, spending over 30 per cent of their income on housing costs.
Barriers for Racialized Community
- In Toronto, 69% of residents who identify as racialized, have lower income and rent their houses compared to residents who identify as white.
- One in five Black Torontonians lived in Core Housing Need, double the rate of non-racialized people.
Risk of Homelessness
- As of 2021 in Toronto, Black and Indigenous populations were disproportionately represented in the population experiencing homelessness.
- 75 per cent of private renter households in the Toronto census region that struggled with housing affordability had incomes below $60,000.
Housing Advisory Board
Our Partners
Other ACBN Ecosystem Projects
Learn more about our offerings and programs available through the Black Entrepreneurship Ecosystem.
Get Involved!
Your support is crucial in making the Affordable Housing Initiative a success and helping marginalized entrepreneurs thrive. There are several ways you can get involved:
Volunteer Opportunities
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and make a tangible impact on the lives of African and Caribbean entrepreneurs. Whether you’re skilled in construction, project management, event planning, or community outreach, your time and talents can help us build and sustain affordable housing projects.
Partnerships
We believe in the power of collaboration. Partner with us to create a greater impact. Whether you’re a business, non-profit organization, or government agency, your partnership can help us expand our reach and resources.
By getting involved, you contribute to a supportive ecosystem where African and Caribbean entrepreneurs can flourish. Together, we can create a future where everyone has access to affordable housing and the opportunity to build successful, sustainable businesses.