Airbnb has launched the Airbnb Housing Accelerator, a new program pledging $250 million in last-dollar financing to unlock $5 billion in homebuilding capital. The scheme targets stalled housing developments, starting with a $6.4 million investment for 201 affordable units in Austin, Texas. Alongside capital deployment, Airbnb is supporting local policy reforms, launching a global housing index and establishing a $5 million innovation prize.
Expo 2030 Riyadh has partnered with Mohammed Al Habib Real Estate Company in a 3.2 billion SAR joint venture to construct Expo Village. The residential development will house 5,500 international delegates across 2,300 apartments during the World Expo. Following the six-month exhibition, the sustainable district will convert into a permanent residential community, supporting long-term urban growth in northern Riyadh.
The University of South Florida has broken ground on Uptown Landing, a $500 million mixed-use scheme on its Tampa campus. Formerly known as the Fletcher District, the project will deliver 700 student beds, retail units, restaurants, a hotel, and the Translational Research Institute. Constructed as a public-private partnership, the initial 30-acre phase is scheduled for completion ahead of the autumn 2028 term.
Arlington City Council has backed a major redevelopment scheme to turn 7.3 acres of central surface parking into a multi-purpose complex. Private firm Trammell Crow Company will construct at least 390 homes, commercial space and a 600-car garage, investing over $123 million. The municipality retains land ownership whilst acquiring a new Water Utilities office, infrastructure and 197 free public parking spaces under a 99-year lease agreement.
Developer Sun Group has commenced a 30.15 trillion VND project to renovate and enhance the West Lake area in Hanoi, Vietnam. Implemented under a Build-Transfer public-private partnership, the scheme spans 567.75 hectares. The plans focus on expanding pedestrian space along a 13.5 km lakeside road, building wharves, upgrading public parks and installing new cultural infrastructure to establish the district as a major tourism and event destination.
Homes England has announced 33 strategic partners to support the government's £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes Programme. Running from 2026 to 2036, the ten-year initiative represents a major public investment in housing outside London. The selected housing associations, councils and developers will build thousands of social and affordable homes to meet growing regional demand across the country.
