Session 2 was the first session of the CDR's applicable content. While the first session focused on introductions and expectations, Session 2 delivered meaningful guidance and information from subject-matter experts. Knowing that a solid financial structure is the starting point for any credible development project, the CDR team intentionally kicked off the first curriculum-focused session with these fundamentals that every emerging developer must understand. The CDR's purpose is to give participants access to information, clarity, and expertise that are often difficult to obtain, and this session delivered precisely that.
Insights from a Fellow Developer and Bank Leaders
The day began with a conversation led by Will Northern of Crescendo Development. He shared his path into the industry and discussed the early decisions and relationships that helped him gain footing. Participants connected with the honesty of his story and appreciated hearing the practical steps that helped someone once in their position begin building real projects.
The energy shifted as the group moved into lender conversations with bank leaders speaking plainly about how they evaluate new developers, what they look for in early meetings, and how they measure risk. The insight was direct, grounded, and immediately practical. One participant captured the sentiment well, saying, "Listening to the lenders and the tax and accounting information was very helpful. It made the financial side of development feel much more approachable."
Accounting and taxes are a must, and strong financial systems are essential for navigating bank requirements and building credibility early.
Understanding the Essentials of Financial Systems
By the time the final session began, the cohort was ready to understand the rest of the financial picture. Porchia Barrett and Diana Cetares from HM&M led the group through the essentials of tax planning, bookkeeping, and entity structure. Their content hit home, and participants appreciated their transparency and direct delivery, with several noting it was their favorite and most impactful part of the day. One shared the realization that "accounting and taxes are a must." That perspective was maintained as the conversation unfolded, reinforcing the importance of strong financial systems for navigating bank requirements and building credibility early.
Participant Feedback and Future Opportunities
Participants described the session as extremely valuable and shared that the overall experience felt smooth, welcoming, and well-organized. They felt comfortable engaging with speakers, asking questions, and connecting the material directly to their project ideas, which reinforces the importance of creating an environment where emerging developers can learn openly. Their reflections provide additional guidance on how the Innovan team can curate future CDR sessions to support their growth further.
Several participants expressed interest in tools that would help them apply the financial concepts more directly, including a deeper look at systems like QuickBooks or additional time with CPA and banking professionals. These insights point to meaningful opportunities for the CDR to build on its curriculum and provide even stronger application-focused support as the cohort moves forward.
Clarity and Confidence
The day closed with lunch and open dialogue about current projects and personal next steps. As participants left, there was a sense of clarity and grounded optimism. This session provided participants with a behind-the-scenes lens into banking, underwriting, and financial management, leaving them less intimidated and more confident in navigating their finances. The cohort is now moving forward with sharper insight, a firmer footing, and a clearer understanding of what it takes to shape fundable, well-structured development projects.
To learn more about the CDR Cohort 3 (Fort Worth) participants, click here.
