Community Impact: CREDA’s Real Estate Development Expertise Has a Lasting Impact Across Southeast Pennsylvania

From revitalizing downtown corridors and transforming underutilized properties to creating jobs and strengthening local communities, commercial real estate development helps shape the places where Pennsylvanians live, work, and do business. For nearly 60 years, the Greater Philadelphia Commercial Real Estate Development Association (CREDA), formerly known as NAIOP, has been at the center of that work across Southeast Pennsylvania. 

Guided by its core pillars of Education, Advocacy and Impact, CREDA connects industry professionals, delivers high-quality educational programming, champions pro-growth policies, and provides the relationships and insights its members need to succeed.

“Physically growing and developing Southeast Pennsylvania is about much more than commercial real estate,” says CREDA Executive Director Sarah Maginnis. “We care about job creation, sustainability, diverse business participation, and strengthening our communities.”

CREDA attributes its success to its members, whom it views as problem-solvers committed to strengthening the region while preparing the next generation of leaders and professionals. That shared commitment recently inspired a media tour highlighting the importance of interconnected growth and regional collaboration.

“Regardless of their backgrounds, CREDA members understand that our region only thrives when we work together and move in the same direction,” Maginnis explains. “Through our Impact Awards, we also encourage Chamber members to learn about the inspiring contributions of our industry leaders and fellow CREDA members.”

Representing thousands of developers, owners and investors, CREDA’s influence extends throughout the region. Whether hosting conferences, workshops, or retreats, the organization is continually seeking opportunities to bring together stakeholders and industry leaders to foster collaboration and innovation.

Beyond advocacy and professional development, CREDA invests in programs that expand access to careers in commercial real estate while strengthening the communities it serves. Through educational partnerships, mentorship programs, internships, and externships, the organization is helping build the industry’s future talent pipeline.

“We recently wrapped up our Drexel Summer Program for high school students,” says Maginnis. “In addition, we offer internship and externship opportunities that expose students to careers in commercial real estate. By mentoring the next generation of developers, owners, investors, and industry professionals, our members can highlight the industry’s current impact while creating a pathway for future leadership. These intergenerational conversations allow us to learn from the past, assess the present, and prepare future leaders to continue driving growth across the region.”

As the commercial real estate landscape continues to evolve, CREDA is focused on advancing its work in advocacy, inclusion, workforce development, and industry growth. The organization is committed to serving as a voice for growth at both the local and state levels, helping ensure that Greater Philadelphia remains a premier place to live, work, and do business.

CREDA’s membership in the PA Chamber further strengthens its ability to advance that mission. Through its expertise in housing and development, as well as its relationships with organizations across these sectors, CREDA brings a valuable perspective to discussions surrounding housing availability, community development, and economic growth.

“Regions across the country are still working through post-pandemic recovery efforts, particularly when it comes to revitalizing downtowns and commercial corridors,” says Maginnis. “CREDA and our members understand how to transform buildings and spaces to meet today’s needs. We welcome business leaders, elected officials, and community stakeholders to join us as we explore ways to reimagine underutilized properties and create opportunities for modern families and businesses.”