Use KnoPro to develop real-world skills and connect with industry professionals. Strengthen your college application and build your resume with skills that colleges and employers are looking for. Plus, you have the chance to win from a pool of $10K and other prizes!
“Making money and building life skills all while in high school. It sounds too good to be true but it isn't. I love KnoPro because I have been able to learn about topics I am interested in and make projects that I can add to my resume and make money on top of that.”
Student, DC International School
Connect the high school student in your life to a free and fun project that helps them build skills that colleges want and employers need. Plus, they can have a chance to win from a pool of $10,000.
“As a parent, I’m always looking for engaging and educational tools to support my teen’s learning journey, and KnoPro is it. My daughter loves KnoPro. She shared it with her friends and they all participate in the challenges.”
Parent of 11th grade student, Miami, FL
What is the Nareit Real Estate, Real Impact Challenge?
Look around. Every school, store, apartment, and park in your community is real estate. Real estate is where we live, work, and play—and it’s not just about making money; it can also change lives.
In this KnoPro Challenge, you’ll dive into the world of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)—a way for anyone (yep, even you) to become an owner without buying a building. You’ll choose a socially responsible REIT that earns income and tackles a real-world problem like affordable housing, sustainability, or food security. Then, develop a product, business, or marketing campaign to get people on board. Your goal: show how real estate and impact can work together. Get ready to wow the Nareit judges and win big with your ideas!
Business professionals who serve as project mentors will be available for the duration of the challenge (November 3–December 7, 2025). Every student who completes the industry challenge can add this exciting work-based learning experience to their resume and college applications. The top three groups will share a guaranteed $10,000 prize pool for Southeast Michigan students only. (First place – $5,000, Second place – $3,000, Third place – $2,000).
Don’t miss this chance to make a real-world impact and kickstart your future!
The Nareit Real Estate, Real Impact Challenge is a national competition with a regional “Cup” available only to Southeast Michigan students. The Southeast Michigan Cup will have a guaranteed prize pool of $10,000 in addition to the national competition.
Who is eligible?
How does it work?
- Sign Up Quickly and Easily
Create a free student account to enter the Nareit Real Estate, Real Impact Challenge—it takes less than a minute! All you need is an email address and your school’s name. (Note: KnoPro is for students aged 13 and up.) By signing up, you can track your points, communicate with your team, receive feedback from industry professionals, and submit your work. - Work Solo or in Teams
Choose to participate individually or collaborate with others, either inside or outside of school. This is your opportunity to showcase your creativity! - Develop Your Winning Solution
Invent a product, business idea, or marketing campaign that gets people excited about investing in a socially responsible Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)—a way for everyday people to own part of real estate without buying a whole building. Whether it’s focused on affordable housing, sustainability, or food security—this is your chance to show how real estate and impact can work together. Be creative! - Request Feedback from Industry Professionals
Engaged mentors are ready for you to review your ideas and provide valuable feedback on your designs or practice presentations. They regularly log in to see how students who add their insights stand out here, helping you polish your work before submission. - Submit a 3–5-Minute Video Pitch
Present your idea in a 3–5 minute video pitch. Judges from NAF and Nareit will select the top three submissions—individuals or groups—for the Challenge. Don’t worry, while evaluating the quality of your ideas and work, we’ll factor in some consideration for your design in technical skills.
Why should you participate?
- Win up to $10,000 in cash prizes (First place - $5,000; Second place - $3,000; Third place - $2,000).
- These significant prizes can help fund your education or personal projects.
- Financial support can help you to invest in your future and pursue your passions.
- Build valuable skills and learn about careers in real estate and investing.
- Gain practical experience in how real estate can drive community impact through areas like affordable housing, sustainability, and food security.
- Strengthening your skill set makes you more competitive for college admissions and future career opportunities.
- Earn points for prizes, have fun, and enhance your resume or college applications.
- Participating adds unique experiences to your profile that stand out to admissions officers and employers.
- Showcasing your initiative and creativity can open doors to scholarships and job offers.
- Claim bragging rights as the Southeast Michigan KnoPro Challenge Cup winner.
- Achieving this honor distinguishes you as a leader and innovator among your peers.
- Recognition can lead to networking opportunities and bolster your confidence in pursuing ambitious goals.
How much does it cost to participate?
Participation in the Nareit Real Estate, Real Impact Challenge is absolutely FREE! Thanks to our generous partners, KnoPro (powered by NAF) offers this career-focused, work-based learning platform at no cost to students in grades 9–12. Join us to solve today’s pressing industry issues alongside leading companies like Nareit without any fees.