Chicago, IL – The Chicagoland Apartment Association (CAA) is accepting applications for its 2026 Pathways to Excellence DE&I Scholarship Program, an initiative aimed at expanding professional development opportunities for businesses led by individuals from historically underrepresented communities.
According to the Chicagoland Apartment Association, five apartment industry companies will be selected to receive a complimentary one-year membership, valued at up to $1,000, along with access to industry events, mentorship opportunities and professional networking resources.
The program is open to apartment management companies, property owners and supplier partners located throughout the Chicagoland region that prioritize diversity and inclusion within their organizations.
CAA officials said the scholarship program was created to help reduce barriers to participation in the apartment industry while connecting emerging leaders with valuable industry resources and professional relationships.
“Through this program, CAA hopes to introduce new voices, perspectives and leaders to the association while providing meaningful opportunities for professional growth and connection,” Executive Vice President Michael Mini said in a statement.
The initiative specifically encourages participation from companies owned or led by individuals from historically underrepresented groups, including Black, Hispanic, Asian American and Pacific Islander, Indigenous, women, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities and other underrepresented communities identified by applicants.
Recipients will receive a complimentary membership and are required to participate in at least one diversity, equity and inclusion-focused event during their scholarship year.
Current and former Chicagoland Apartment Association members are not eligible for the program at this time.
Applications for the 2026 Pathways to Excellence DE&I Scholarship Program must be submitted by June 30, 2026.
The Chicagoland Apartment Association represents more than 7,000 apartment professionals responsible for managing and operating more than 308,000 market-rate and affordable housing units across the region.
Additional information and application materials are available through the Chicagoland Apartment Association website.
