Cities shape how we live, work, and connect—but who shapes the cities matters just as much. Nicole is working to make that process more inclusive.
This week, we’re excited to spotlight Nicole DePietro, Executive Director of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Louisiana.
ULI is a global organization focused on responsible land use and real estate development, with a strong presence in Louisiana. Through programming, partnerships, and community engagement, the organization works to connect industry leaders and support more thoughtful, inclusive development.
As Executive Director, Nicole leads ULI Louisiana’s programming, partnerships, and strategic initiatives—connecting developers, city leaders, and community stakeholders to collaborate on real estate challenges across New Orleans.
Her work includes organizing events and panels, leading technical assistance projects, and working closely with local organizations to develop strategies for real estate and community development.
One of the initiatives she’s most excited about is REDI (Real Estate Diversity Initiative)—a 15-week program designed to expand access to careers in development for women and people of color.
It’s about creating access and making sure more people have a pathway into this industry.
For Nicole, The Shop has become an important part of how she approaches her work.
She joined shortly after stepping into her role, initially drawn to the flexibility and collaborative energy of the space. Over time, it’s become more than just a place to work—Nicole utilizes the common areas to host events, programming, and conversations that bring together members of the real estate and development community.
Being at The Shop and engaging with the New Orleans community gives me a deeper understanding of local development and what people want—it’s a space that constantly informs and inspires my work.
That ability to stay connected to the community while also creating space for collaboration has made The Shop a natural extension of ULI’s work in New Orleans.
We’re proud to have Nicole and ULI as part of The Shop community and excited to see how their work continues shaping the future of development across Louisiana.
Learn more about ULI Louisiana here.
Interested in building alongside leaders like Nicole? Join The Shop Workspace to connect with New Orleans’ growing network of founders, developers, and change makers here.