MURAD HOWLADER

Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Murad Howlader and I live in the East Side of Buffalo. I have been in business for many years in New York City and Buffalo.

Please tell us about your project.

My dream with my property at 580 Walden is that it would be a community center or banquet hall that provides a safe and inclusive environment. Since there is an industrial kitchen, a restaurant can also be established.

How will your project benefit the neighborhood and the East Side community as a whole?

As a longtime resident in the East Side, I would like to create a place for my community members where they can enjoy precious moments together in a safe environment. I want my best friend, neighbors, and newcomers to Buffalo to feel that the city is their home. So, this has allowed me to develop a sense of the unique challenges different members of this community face. Additionally, many are afraid to rent or own an apartment or home, even if their business is established on the East Side. This building can be a site for everyone with the right resources and the belief that they can start a new project.

What did you learn in the class that has helped you to accomplish your development goals?

Participating in the development class helped me complete my development goals by providing me with a deeper understanding of many aspects of the industry. I gained valuable knowledge in market analysis, financial planning, project management, regulation, and community engagement. For example, I learned community engagement strategies to build positive relationships and ensure that my project will meet the needs of the local community.

Would you recommend this program to others?

Absolutely. I definitely recommend this program to anyone hoping to develop commercial property on the East Side. The complete curriculum, expert instruction, networking opportunity, and the focus on the East Side make it an invaluable resource. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to gain the knowledge, skill, and the connections necessary for the success of developing commercial property on the East side. This is a wonderful opportunity that can help the community really grow.

What are your immediate next steps in your project?

The next step is to fix up my property at 580 Walden and explore the financial options for the Community Center. I am excited about renovating the space and marketing. It’s safe and welcoming for the community. At the same time, I am talking to lenders to see how I can get the funds I need. This is the opportunity to create a positive impact on the East Side and to provide a space where everyone can feel included.

Lastly, what is your vision for the East Side?

As a father, husband, and active community member, I want to help make the East Side a place where everyone feels safe. Being able to transform my property into a place where a new business enterprise can start is fantastic. I would love to be part of this new beginning. When I first moved to the East Side from Queens almost 14 years ago, I never would have thought that a commercial real estate development project could have been possible for me. I want to create a safe and inclusive community where everyone feels welcome.