University of Denver Launches Housing Innovation Hub with $2.65M in Funding

New Center for Housing Research and Innovative Solutions aims to address regional housing challenges through research, policy, and education.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The University of Denver is launching the Center for Housing Research and Innovative Solutions (CHRIS), a new hub dedicated to addressing the Rocky Mountain West's most pressing housing challenges. Supported by $2.65 million in philanthropic gifts, CHRIS will connect researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to develop practical, data-driven solutions for issues across the full housing spectrum.

Why it matters

Rapid growth in the Rocky Mountain West has intensified pressure on housing supply and affordability, underscoring the need for region-specific, data-informed strategies. CHRIS aims to become a trusted source for insight and practical solutions to these complex challenges.

The details

CHRIS will focus on three core priorities: research and policy evaluation, market analytics and data sharing, and education and leadership development for current and future housing professionals. The Center builds on DU's recent high-impact housing research, including a 2025 study that found Denver's minimum parking requirements significantly reduce housing production.

  • CHRIS was launched in February 2026.

The players

University of Denver

A private university empowering students to make a difference, recognized as a top research institution.

Susan Daggett

Executive director of DU's Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute at the Sturm College of Law.

Vivek Sah

Director of DU's Franklin L. Burns School of Real Estate and Construction Management at the Daniels College of Business.

Jeremy Haefner

Chancellor of the University of Denver.

Colorado Housing and Finance Authority

One of the philanthropic partners providing funding support for CHRIS.

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What they’re saying

“Sustainable housing solutions are best achieved when we work together with our partners across the region. CHRIS is committed to delivering rigorous, locally grounded research that supports effective policies for our communities.”

— Susan Daggett, Executive director of DU's Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute (University of Denver)

“By focusing on research, data, and education, we can create a comprehensive approach to solving housing challenges. Success for the Center is about becoming a trusted source for insight and practical solutions.”

— Vivek Sah, Director of DU's Franklin L. Burns School of Real Estate and Construction Management (University of Denver)

“The University of Denver is proud to play a central role in driving economic growth and opportunity in our region. With the support of our philanthropic partners, this Center will help build a more resilient future for Colorado.”

— Jeremy Haefner, Chancellor of the University of Denver (University of Denver)

What’s next

CHRIS plans to release its first major research report on housing policy and affordability in the Rocky Mountain West in early 2027.

The takeaway

By bringing together researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders, the University of Denver's new Center for Housing Research and Innovative Solutions aims to develop practical, data-driven solutions to the region's pressing housing challenges, helping to build a more resilient future for Colorado and the Rocky Mountain West.