Revolutionizing Industries: The Commonwealth Development Compact

In June 2022, the Boston Society for Architecture (BSA) and Civic Action Project (CAP) convened regional leaders to brainstorm solutions to a common challenge, “How to increase diversity, equity and inclusion in all facets of the real estate industry?”

Calls for New Development Model

BSA and CAP socialized the Commonwealth Development Model and called upon public officials and industry executives to join together in a dynamic, interactive half-day workshop to flush out the challenges, opportunities and needs that should shape a policy direction.  To help design and execute the event, BSA and CAP contracted with InOrder Business as a thought partner.  Given IOB’s extensive familiarity working on these issues with various stakeholders including developers, municipalities, trade partners, industry associations, and community partners, IOB was able to facilitate and guide the conversations in ways that allowed everyone to contribute valuable perspectives.

Less than a year later, on May 8th 2023, BSA hosted the signing of what is now known as the Commonwealth Development Compact.  Funded by EasternBank and spearheaded by BSA, CAP, and the Builders of Color Coalition (BCC), the Compact enjoins municipalities of Cambridge, Somerville, Lynn and Salem with the City of Boston to establish D,E&I as an evaluation criteria for all public land dispositions. 

A New Leap Towards Diversity

InOrder Business is proud to be a part of this significant milestone, and we’re looking forward to continuing our engagement with the BSA, CAP, and BCC by researching ways in which Bonding and Insurance requirements may preclude diverse business participation, and how our industry can further adapt to overcome those barriers. 

To learn more about the Commonwealth Development Compact and our incredible partners, please visit: