Community investment trusts
Anti displacement [[1]] through community investment trusts
Community investment trusts and cooperatives allow neighborhood residents or other stakeholders to pool resources to purchase community-owned real estate. Community investment trusts and cooperatives are for-profit entities that help communities invest in themselves and secure space for small businesses and other cooperatively controlled uses. Investment trusts and cooperatives can help residents build equity and wealth while also providing small business owners with affordable space and opportunities to remain in place.
Investment trusts or cooperatives are limited by state regulations. While some states facilitate incorporation, others are more restrictive. Investors are often subject to financial scrutiny, making it challenging for low-income residents or businesses to buy and sell shares. If shareholders default on their payments, it can affect the long-term viability of the trust. Because community investment trust or real estate cooperative initiatives are relatively new, there is limited funding for such projects. Some support themselves through investment proceeds. Funding can come from a mix of grants, program related investments, and other public and philanthropic funds. Greater state and federal support is needed, such as tax credits for residents who invest in community-owned real estate.