The company's founding member and owner is Howard R. Conant, Jr.  In his role as President of Urban Innovations, Howard leads the executive staff and has the responsibility for acquisition and development, financial analysis and negotiation of major transactions.  Howard has more than 30 years of experience in real estate, architecture and construction and is an expert in loft development and renovation.

Howard received a B.A. from Harvard and a Master's in Architecture from the University of California at Berkeley.  He is a registered architect in Illinois and California.  He is active on the boards of the Lawson House, YMCA and Archeworks.

“The most satisfying part is to know that we have made a difference. The people of UI are consummate professionals, the best in the business. We led redevelopment of River North into a vibrant neighborhood. We continue to earn loyalty from our commercial tenants by providing exceptional service regardless of circumstance. And we continue to innovate. Today we are redefining the affordable senior housing business--renovating buildings and upgrading services for senior residents that would otherwise be left behind.”