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July 01.2025
2 Minutes Read

Discover Danielle Williams: NextGen Woman of the Year Honoree 2025

NextGen Woman of the Year Honoree 2025 smiling portrait.

A Rising Star in Finance: Meet Danielle Williams

Danielle Williams is being recognized as the NextGen Woman of the Year for 2025, and it’s easy to see why. Since joining Avante Capital Partners in 2019, she has made remarkable strides—starting as the assistant to manager partner Ivelisse Rodriguez Simon, helping to bolster the firm's marketing initiatives.

With her dedication and talent, Danielle has transformed her role into a critical position as an analyst, contributing significantly to the fundraising team. Her work involves identifying, underwriting, executing, and managing investment opportunities. But it hasn’t always been smooth sailing; Williams began her career in office services at Latham and Watkins in San Diego before advancing to her current position.

From Athlete to Analyst: A Competitive Edge

Graduating from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Danielle also showcased her athletic prowess as a member of the Women's Basketball team. Her four years of high-level competition have equipped her with resilience and teamwork skills crucial for success in finance. This combination of academic rigor and athletic discipline gives her a competitive edge in a challenging corporate environment.

Empowering Future Talent: Scholarships and Internships

Williams is not just focused on her career; she is also dedicated to giving back to her community. She plays an essential role in Avante Capital Partners' Small Business Investing Scholars Internship Program, aimed at creating pathways for students from diverse backgrounds into the finance sector. Since its inception in 2020, the program has seen explosive growth—from nine interns initially to 40, with participation from 31 SBIC firms. Last year alone, they received a record of over 1,300 applications, showcasing the rising interest in finance careers among students.

A Vision for the Future

Danielle Williams exemplifies how commitment and hard work can lead to inspiring achievements. Her story serves as a catalyst for young women aspiring to create a mark in male-dominated industries. As she continues to shatter glass ceilings, she offers a beacon of hope and a roadmap for others seeking their paths. With her impactful initiatives and accomplishments, Danielle is a true embodiment of the NextGen Woman of the Year. Connect with her journey, as it reminds us that behind every successful person, there's a layer of dedication to uplifting others.

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02.20.2026

Citywide Adaptive Reuse Ordinance: Transforming Vacant Buildings into Homes

Update Transforming Vacancies into Vibrant Homes: A New Ordinance in LA As 2026 unfolds, Los Angeles stands at a crossroads, grappling with a considerable office vacancy rate of 23% while facing an acute housing shortage. With over 50 million square feet of empty office and retail space, the city is seeking innovative solutions to tackle these pressing challenges. Enter the newly adopted Citywide Adaptive Reuse Ordinance, a bold policy shift that could pave the way for repurposing underutilized buildings into multifamily housing. Understanding the Adaptive Reuse Movement This new ordinance, effective February 1, 2026, builds on previous efforts that began with the original Adaptive Reuse Ordinance in 1999, primarily benefiting downtown Los Angeles. This earlier initiative transformed over 12,000 outdated units into vibrant lofts and apartments through streamlined processes and zoning incentives. The expansion to a citywide effort means more opportunities for neighborhoods to thrive by turning vacant spaces into homes. Key Features of the Citywide Adaptive Reuse Ordinance One of the ordinance’s most significant changes is the expanded eligibility for buildings. Whereas previous laws focused on structures older than 1974, the new rule allows conversions of buildings that are merely 15 years old and up. Parking structures and hotels are included too, opening avenues that were previously overlooked. An essential addition is the removal of geographic restrictions. Previously confined to specific areas like Hollywood and Koreatown, adaptive reuse is now viable citywide, empowering development in previously excluded neighborhoods. This flexibility not only accelerates approval but also lessens complications that have historically plagued such projects. Streamlined Processes and Incentives Fueling Development Efforts to simplify the entitlement process significantly benefit developers. Buildings over 15 years old can now secure permits more swiftly, while slightly younger structures have a clearer pathway to approval. Moreover, developers face fewer zoning hurdles—minimum unit size and existing floor area standards are more flexible, enticing investment. A Dual Solution to Housing and Economic Issues The Citywide Adaptive Reuse Ordinance emerges as a double-edged sword—it addresses the critical housing crisis while offering a lifeline to business owners with vacant properties. With office occupancy unlikely to revert to pre-pandemic levels soon, transforming these spaces into residential locales serves as a practical resolution to the pressing needs of LA’s dynamic population. Looking Ahead: Community Impact and Opportunities The ripple effects of this ordinance will likely extend beyond just housing availability. By revitalizing neighborhoods, enhancing community identity, and fostering economic growth, new energy can be infused into areas that have long been stagnant. As community members observe the transformations, there’s potential for a renewed spirit of engagement and investment in local life. Adaptive reuse is more than just policy; it's a chance to reshape Los Angeles and breathe life back into communities. The success of this initiative holds the promise of a future where every empty space contributes to the rich tapestry of the city’s character.

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