Sherman Phoenix
The Sherman Phoenix is a model for healing our city by generating positive economic and social returns in communities of color. The civil unrest in Sherman Park in 2016 shed light on long-standing injustices and inequities, and the critical need for inclusive pathways to economic opportunities for all Milwaukeeans to thrive. This project uses an innovative approach to leverage community assets and create a more inclusive economy.
- Redevelop vacant and damaged property into high-quality commercial space. The project redeveloped the fire-damaged BMO Harris Bank building located near the intersection of Fond du Lac Avenue and 35th Street into an economic hub for 30 small businesses owned by entrepreneurs of color, who offer prepared foods, wellness services, and arts & cultural activities.
- Strengthen entrepreneurs of color to help them grow their businesses, generate jobs and support the local economy. The Phoenix offers business support through mentorship, business coaching, and networking. This support strengthens the tenant businesses and improve sustainable growth. In turn, these businesses create 100+ jobs, including entry and mid-level positions that provide training opportunities.
- Build community wealth and ownership through direct neighbor investment and an innovative co-developer model. In addition to traditional financing, the project includes neighborhood investors as a means of strengthening community ownership, wealth and support for tenant businesses. Additionally, the project uses a co-developer model that blends the strengths of a real estate developer with that of a community developer to build a model for community empowerment and transformation.
Check out the Sherman Phoenix website for more information.
