Applications for 2026 are open. Apply by May 31, 2026.
NMHC’s mission is to provide leadership and advocacy that promotes thriving rental housing communities for all. We envision meeting America’s housing needs by creating inclusive and resilient communities where people build their lives. A dedicated, engaged community, with high member satisfaction, is key to our mission.
NMHC believes that our members are central to a productive rental housing market and the communities we serve. The NMHC Membership Development Program is a key component.
The Membership Development Program is an application-only opportunity that provides a complementary two-year NMHC Advisory Committee membership. The Program is open only to prospective members, and availability is limited. NMHC selects applicants in its sole discretion.
Who is eligible to apply?
- Newer companies in operation for approximately three to five years that primarily own, develop, manage or finance rental housing communities; provide brokerage services primarily for rental housing; or provide consulting, legal or other business services primarily to the rental housing industry.
- Nonprofit rental housing providers.
- Nonprofits that represent rental housing providers.
- Nonprofits dedicated to rental housing, impact investing or community development.
- Accredited, degree-conferring nonprofit academic programs with rental housing curricula and research components.
How are applications evaluated?
NMHC will consider each application individually and the combined applicant pool as a whole. NMHC will make selections to produce a varied cohort that supports our mission.
What specific factors are considered?
An applicant’s demonstrated ability to benefit from and contribute to NMHC. We consider an applicant’s organization type, business line(s) and leadership/ownership team.
What materials may be submitted to support my application?
- Example materials/information that may be submitted to support an application include:
- Company resume, corporate overview or capabilities summary
- Business performance indicators up to three years, such as communities or units under ownership and/or management, revenue, employees, markets served, services provided, etc.
Do not submit confidential, proprietary or competitively-sensitive information.
What benefits will my company receive if our application is approved?
- Complimentary two-year NMHC Advisory Committee membership.
- After your two-year complimentary period is completed, you’ll get a 50% discount off standard membership dues for one year. Your firm must renew within 6 months of your complimentary membership expiration date to use this one-year discount.
- Participation in the NMHC Ambassador Program during your two-year complimentary membership. You will be matched with a dedicated volunteer Ambassador, a veteran NMHC member, who will be available to answer your NMHC questions and support your engagement. The Ambassador Program is specifically designed to help you benefit from NMHC’s many opportunities.
- In-person and virtual networking opportunities with other new members, industry leaders and NMHC staff, including an online orientation for new members and special gatherings for program participants.
What is expected of participants in the NMHC Membership Development Program?
Companies and organizations that accept our invitation to join the 2026 Membership Development Program are expected to:
- Attend a new member orientation session within six months of your approval.
- Attend at least one in-person NMHC event during each year of your two-year complimentary membership.
- Meet with your dedicated member Ambassador, virtually or in person, at least once each calendar quarter throughout your two-year complimentary membership.
- Provide feedback about your experience to the NMHC staff team during the program period on an annual basis.
Questions?
Please direct your questions to NMHC Engagement.
