Seattle’s Equitable Development Initiative Seeks Advisory Board Members To Shape Community Investments

The Equitable Development Initiative (EDI) is seeking community members to join its Advisory Board, helping to shape policies and direct funding toward community-driven projects that support Seattle’s marginalized and displaced communities.

Born from grassroots advocacy, EDI was established to combat displacement and increase investment in communities of color. The initiative empowers historically marginalized groups by fostering community ownership, resilience, cultural preservation, and economic stability.

EDI invites individuals who are rooted in communities facing high risks of displacement and are committed to eliminating systemic inequities to apply for a seat on the Advisory Board. The priority deadline to apply is Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., but applications will be considered until all positions are filled. Members receive a monthly stipend of $300 for full participation, which includes attending two meetings per month and preparation time. Those interested can apply by visiting the City of Seattle’s Boards and Commissions website and selecting “Apply to a Board or Commission.”

As an EDI Advisory Board member, participants play a critical role in advancing racial equity, social justice, and community ownership. Representing Indigenous, Black, immigrant, LGBTQ+, differently-abled, and other historically marginalized communities, board members help ensure that Seattle’s development reflects the needs of those most impacted by displacement and inequality. The board directs funding and resources to projects that prevent displacement and expand opportunities for communities historically excluded from economic growth.

Members advocate for equitable policies, support grant-making initiatives, and promote long-term stability and economic vitality for neighborhoods facing displacement pressures. Responsibilities include serving as a liaison between the city and impacted communities, shaping equitable development strategies, and establishing EDI’s annual funding criteria. Board members also recommend funding allocations, support community-driven initiatives that strengthen neighborhood resilience, and challenge institutional racism by advancing racial equity and social justice. Additionally, they engage stakeholders to build awareness and increase capacity around equitable development goals.

EDI is particularly seeking applicants who have firsthand experience with displacement and systemic inequity. Ideal candidates include individuals from areas with high displacement risks, those who have experienced displacement from Seattle, and people with expertise in equitable development, affordable housing, or real estate finance.

To learn more, visit the Office of Planning and Community Development’s website and explore the EDI Framework and Implementation Plan. For questions or to submit an application directly, email EDIAdvisoryBoard@seattle.gov.