California Tribal Housing Accelerator Academy Program

The California Tribal Housing Accelerator Academy is a technical assistance and peer learning initiative designed to support tribal housing development efforts across California. Organized by Enterprise Community Partners and funded by U.S. Bank, the program addresses the significant need for affordable housing in California’s Tribal communities by offering foundational training, targeted support, and financial resources to participating tribes and tribal housing entities. Eligible participants include federally recognized tribes, California Heritage Commission list tribes, Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs), Tribal Housing Authorities, and Native-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations based in California. The program is structured around both in-person and virtual learning components. It begins with an in-person housing affordability bootcamp and includes three virtual workshops focused on key technical topics: funding resources in California, utilities and infrastructure, and development of supportive services plans. Each participating organization receives a $3,000 participation grant to offset the cost of travel, staff time, and program engagement. Additionally, cohort members receive up to 20 hours of one-on-one technical assistance at no cost, tailored specifically to their tribal housing development goals. This assistance is delivered by experts with experience in tribal affordable housing development and is designed to provide project-specific guidance and strategic support. The application process includes completing an online application via SlideRoom and submitting a short intake survey outlining housing priorities. Following this, applicants participate in an intake call with Enterprise staff to finalize enrollment. Though the academy uses an open enrollment model with rolling acceptance, the final application deadline is April 25, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. PT. A sample workbook is available to help applicants conceptualize their housing development priorities. An informational webinar and additional resources, including links to relevant funding opportunities through the California Housing and Community Development agency, are also provided. Questions regarding the application process should be directed to Eveyln Immonen at Enterprise Community Partners.