How it works

A six-step model that turns philanthropic capital into permanent homeownership — and returns donor principal along the way.

1

Site selection

We identify and acquire land sites in Collier County suitable for workforce housing. We prioritize parcels that are under- or undeveloped, near major employers, and meet key criteria including zoning compatibility, flood safety, and affordability. Site partnerships are formed with the Collier County Community Land Trust (CCCLT), which holds the land through a renewable ground lease to ensure permanent affordability.

2

Flexible funding

We raise project capital from area philanthropists through recoverable grants channeled via Donor Advised Funds at the Collier Community Foundation. These are 0% interest, 5-year term instruments — meaning donor principal is returned as homes are sold. This capital structure is available exclusively to nonprofits and enables repayment and recycling of funds into future projects.

3

Beneficiary selection

Eligible participants apply for the B2R2O program. Applicants must be employed full-time in Collier County and meet income and credit requirements. Preference is given to essential service personnel and county employees — teachers, nurses, firefighters, first responders, and similar roles. Selection is conducted in partnership with local employers.

4

Program period

Beneficiaries sign a rent-to-own agreement and enter a 3-year rental period. Rent is set at 30% of gross income and includes a monthly contribution to a down payment reserve. Participation in a financial literacy and homeownership readiness program is required throughout the rental period.

5

Ownership transition

At the end of the 3-year period, participants are offered the opportunity to purchase their home using their accumulated reserve funds, traditional mortgages, employer contributions, and/or public homebuyer assistance programs. Homes are priced at AMI-constrained levels — affordable for the workforce buyers the program serves.

6

Grant recovery

As homes are sold, funds flow back into the project, allowing B2R2O to recover philanthropic grants and reinvest them in new developments. This sustainable model encourages continued donor engagement and long-term community benefit — turning a single grant into a repeating cycle of impact.

What makes us different

A model built for sustainability

Capital comes back

Unlike traditional grants that are spent once, our recoverable grant structure returns donor principal — enabling reinvestment in future projects.

Permanently affordable

Through the Community Land Trust model, the land stays in trust. Future resales are price-restricted, ensuring affordability for generations.

Real ownership

We don't stop at rentals. Every participant is on a structured path to owning their home — with savings, education, and support along the way.

See the model in action

Project Gateway is B2R2O's first development — 36 townhomes now in the entitlement phase in Collier County.

Explore Project Gateway Support our mission