Our program team and selection committee analyze companies with a holistic lens. Factors we consider include:

• The inventiveness & fit of the idea: How new and creative is the core concept, and how well does it fit today’s housing challenges? Can it create transformational outcomes for housing affordability and equity?
• Strength of core product and business model: Do the core elements of the organization’s product or service work? Are the barriers the organization may face in the regulatory landscape overcomeable? Is there a path to long-term profitability and/or an ability to attract the outside investment needed to grow?
• Potential for national influence: Could this concept make housing or homeownership more accessible on a national level, either by growing nationally or by creating a model that is replicable by others in their communities?
• Strength of the leadership team and key staff: Does the core team have the skills necessary for success? Can they attract additional talent to help them grow? 
• Program fit: Will the Housing Lab’s support help catapult the venture to the next phase of growth?

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We believe housing inequality disproportionately hurts the most marginalized people in society — including BIPOC people, people from working-class backgrounds, women and LGBTQ people. We believe these communities must be centered in the work we do and strongly encourage applications from organizations led by individuals with these identities or members of other marginalized communities.