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Darryl Settles

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PRESIDENT OF CATALYST VENTURES DEVELOPMENT

Darryl Settles, the dynamic president of Catalyst Ventures Development, is not just a real estate developer; he's a visionary. With a keen focus on Boston and its neighboring communities, Settles has championed the development and investment in multifamily and commercial properties. His unique approach? Building bridges and fostering partnerships that empower minority communities, ensuring they have the resources to thrive financially.

His relationships with industry giants like Redgate, WinnCompanies, Tishman-Speyer, and HYM are a testament to his prowess. In 2019, a groundbreaking partnership was born: Catalyst RCP was formed with Redgate. This 51%/49% minority-owned entity aims to expand wealth and opportunity for people of color through real estate.

But Settles' impact continues beyond real estate. He has been a beacon in Boston's hospitality scene, transforming the iconic "Bob The Chef" into Darryl's Corner Bar and Kitchen (DCBK). He was also a co-founder of the Beehive and played a pivotal role in the transformation of Boston's oldest operating Black-owned business - Slade's Bar & Grill (SBG) as its managing partner.

His leadership roles extend to both nonprofit and corporate boards. Current nonprofit boards include: MeetBoston (Vice-Chair), Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC), Mass Housing Investment Corporation (MHIC), and Builders of Color Coalition(BCC). Settles' corporate boards include Commodore Builders and The Village Bank.

Beyond business, Settles is a force for societal change. His commitment to economic and cultural equality is evident in his initiatives:

  • Founding the Beantown Jazz Fest, a community event bridging cultures.

  • Launching forums and events like DCBK Black History Month Community Forums, Boston Means Business, and more.

  • Serving on boards across political spectrums, appointed to boards and commissions by Governors Weld, Patrick, and Baker.

  • Being a founding member of organizations like the Black Economic Council of Massachusetts and the Builders of Color Coalition.
     

With an entrepreneurial heart, Settles is on a mission: to position Boston as a leader in combating income inequality. Darryl Settles would be a great partner to engage if you're looking to make a difference, challenge the status quo, and be part of a transformative journey.

Recent Awards:

  • Charles River Regional Chamber & Get Konnected!: 50 Most Influential Business Leaders of Color: (2023)

  • Boston Magazine: 150 Most Influential Bostonians (2023)

  • Get Konnected! Boston's Most Influential Men of Color (2023)

  • The Legacy Pioneer Award (BECMA) (2024)

  • 2024 Boston Magazine 150 Most Influential Bostonians (2024)

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

Darryl is actively involved in several community-based organizations including the following:

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"Boston is a very old city, it has an old power base, and it has a diverse demographic, and the
two don't match up. The new guard doesn't know how to participate, and it needs connectors. I think he's a connector."

Kirk A. Sykes,Managing Partner of Accordia Partners

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