Exploring Community-Led Hybrid Funding Models For Long-Term Sustainability

BlackSpace Urbanist Collective is a Brooklyn-based national organization that advances Black-led urbanism through design, planning, and other creative practices. As traditional funding became less reliable and the organization approached the end of its three-year plan, BlackSpace has since partnered with the NYU Wagner Capstone team to explore sustainable ways to finance the work they do. The project focused on assessing the feasibility of hybrid financing structures, a governance board, and engagement strategies for an Alumni Fund.

The Capstone team conducted a multi-phase study that included a literature review of solidarity economy practices, a landscape analysis of various collective impact funds, interviews with organizations managing different capital models, and a participatory activity with BlackSpace’s community. We analyzed financial, operational, and governance structures to assess the organization's readiness and risk. The research found strong community interest in impact-driven investment models, particularly those prioritizing neighborhood-level projects, long-term outcomes, and shared governance. Our analysis also indicated that a phased approach, supported by clear operational and leadership structures, would best align with BlackSpace’s capacity and mission.