Build UP: An overview

Build UP is the nation’s first high school that pairs paid real estate and construction apprenticeships with the opportunity for students to build generational wealth by becoming homeowners and landlords in neighborhoods that they have helped rebuild. Through their collective efforts, Build UP students help stabilize and revitalize communities and add to the supply of affordable housing.

By the end of the six-year program, students will have earned a high school diploma and associate degree and gained valuable work experience. They will also receive deeds for two properties — one to live in and one to rent — both with a 0% mortgage.

Fannie Mae’s support will enable the Build UP program to expand to additional sites in the Birmingham region and across the country. Ultimately, it will serve as a model for how high school workforce training programs in the skilled trades can increase graduation rates and improve economic mobility for participating students.

The Build UP team has used their Fannie Mae contract award to: