“Imagine a future where every development project replenishes the soil, purifies the water, cleans the air and revitalizes the community.”
Tony Cho, Founder of Future of Cities
What if our cities could heal the earth instead of harm it? What if the neighborhoods we build not only supported economic growth, but also nurtured culture, restored ecosystems, and strengthened human connection? This is the transformative nature of EcoSystems Thinking—a regenerative mindset that places nature, community, and culture at the heart of how we design and develop places.
At Future of Cities, this is more than a vision—it’s the lens through which we view our projects and helps to guide every decision we make.
A Living Framework: What Is EcoSystems Thinking?
At its core, EcoSystems Thinking is a recognition that we are not separate from nature, but deeply embedded within it. It invites us to see cities not just as collections of buildings and infrastructure, but as dynamic ecosystems—where the health of one part directly affects the whole.
As Future of Cities founder, Tony Cho explains:
“EcoSystems Thinking allows for the most efficient and well-informed decision-making capacity based on both highly evolved natural systems as well as human systems. If we can optimize for both, then we can achieve great things together.”
This mindset urges us to:
Reconsider where we build and with what materials—informed by nature.
Reflect on who we build with—rooted in community.
Redefine how we create value—guided by culture.
It’s a radical departure from extractive, linear models toward circular, reciprocal practices that regenerate life.
Nature as Teacher: The Blue + Greenprints
EcoSystems Thinking begins by honoring the intelligence of the natural world. In nature, there is no waste. Every organism, every cycle, every system plays a role in nourishing the whole. Through biomimicry, permaculture, indigenous knowledge, and regenerative design, we can begin to reimagine how urban development supports—not suppresses—these patterns.
“In natural ecosystems, nothing is wasted; every element serves a purpose, supporting the health and resilience of the whole.”
Tony Cho
Our Blue + Greenprints draw from this wisdom, aligning development with natural systems to create clean, safe, and resilient places where people and the planet thrive together.
EcoSystems Thinking comes to life through our Regenerative Placemaking framework—three interconnected pillars that ensure lasting impact.
1. Nature: Responsible Land & Ocean Stewardship
To design with nature is to respect the ecology of place. At Future of Cities, we partner with visionaries like Regenesis Institute, PlacemakingX, and The ReefLine to promote place-based solutions grounded in resilience, conservation, and restoration.
From integrating green infrastructure to sourcing sustainable materials, we prioritize the long-term vitality of the land and water.
2. Community: The People
Communities are ecosystems too. They flourish when relationships are nurtured and resources are shared. At the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District (PHXJAX), we’re cultivating a creative economy where artists, technologists, and residents collaborate to solve real challenges—like food access, affordable housing, and social justice—while celebrating the local heritage.
“By nurturing relationships through collaboration, resource-sharing, and care for nature, we create resilience and mutual benefit.” – Tony Cho
3. Culture: Currency & Circular Economies
Culture is more than art—it’s a regenerative force. When economic models reflect cultural values like stewardship, equity, and collaboration, prosperity becomes circular and inclusive.
At the Climate & Innovation HUB in Miami, we’re embedding circular business models into the DNA of entrepreneurship. Through zero-waste events, regenerative workshops, and a thriving network of innovators, the HUB embodies how culture and commerce can evolve together.
The Power of Cross-Pollination
To regenerate entire cities, we must think like ecosystems: diverse, interconnected, and mutually supportive. That’s why Future of Cities embraces Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and Collective Impact Models to bring together government, industry, artists, activists, investors, and community members.
“No single entity or individual can achieve this alone… Collaboration across sectors, disciplines, and geographies is key.” – Tony Cho
Cross-pollination accelerates innovation, drives systems change, and ensures our solutions are inclusive and scalable.
Becoming an EcoSystems Thinker
EcoSystems Thinking isn’t just a framework—it’s a movement. It’s a call to rethink our place in the world, and to design in harmony with it.
Here’s how you can begin:
Adopt a holistic mindset: See the interconnection between the natural, human, and built environments. Shift from linear systems to circular ones that replenish.
Center collaboration: Build bridges across communities, sectors, and disciplines. Shared solutions amplify collective impact.
Integrate culture with economy: Let storytelling, shared values, and cultural wisdom shape sustainable markets and regenerative growth.
“It’s my belief that by co-creating a world where urban and natural systems thrive in harmony, we can leave a legacy.” – Tony Cho
The Future Is Regenerative
The future isn’t something we wait for—it’s something we build. As cities continue to grow and adapt, the question is not if we should change how we develop, but how quickly we can shift toward regeneration.
EcoSystems Thinking offers the tools. We must provide the will.
In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to live, work, and invest across borders has never been more valuable. Global mobility is not just about the freedom to travel—it’s about expanding horizons, unlocking new economic opportunities, and securing a resilient future for families and businesses alike. One of the most compelling pathways to global mobility today is through our Future of Cities Portugal+ Golden Visa Fund, a vehicle that offers investors a strategic gateway to European residency while prioritizing sustainable development & becoming a part of a curated network of like-minded individuals dedicated to positive impact.
Why Global Mobility Matters
We are inevitably shaped by our living environments. Where we work, play, create, and connect influences not just our day-to-day lives but our long-term personal & professional growth and resilience. As the world faces evolving economic, environmental, and geopolitical shifts, the ability to move fluidly across jurisdictions is an asset that provides security, flexibility, and financial leverage.
The concept of home is transforming—rather than being tied to a single location, individuals and families are crafting lifestyles that integrate multiple cultures, business hubs, and investment landscapes.
Global mobility empowers you to:
Diversify Economic Opportunities: Engage in thriving markets, benefit from tax efficiencies, and access new career landscapes.
Enhance Quality of Life: Enjoy world-class healthcare, education, and social systems.
Build a Resilient Future: Mitigate risks through alternative residency or citizenship options.
Expand Business & Investment Networks: Connect with international talent, entrepreneurs, and markets.
The Portugal+ Golden Visa Fund: A Wise Gateway into Europe
The Portugal Golden Visa program has long been recognized as one of the most attractive residency-by-investment programs globally. One of the most notable aspects of this Golden Visa program is that it does not require its investors to relocate to become a European Union resident.
For investors looking for a seamless route to European residency, the Portugal Golden Visa Fund offers a streamlined, capital-efficient, and sustainable investment approach.
Key Benefits of the Future of Cities Portugal+ Golden Visa Fund:
✅ Residency & EU Access: Gain residency in Portugal with visa-free travel across the Schengen Area. ✅ Attractive Investment Structure: Instead of purchasing real estate, investors can allocate funds into regulated investment vehicles, supporting sustainable development, technology, and infrastructure projects. ✅ Pathway to Citizenship: After five years, investors can apply for Portuguese citizenship without requiring permanent residence in Portugal. ✅ Sustainable & Future-Focused: As one of the few funds that prioritizes ESG-driven projects, we align with the values of regenerative development and long-term impact. ✅ Tax Advantages: Enjoy potential tax efficiencies, depending on individual circumstances and residency status.
Regenerative Placemaking through Global Mobility
At Future of Cities, we recognize that the future of urban living transcends borders. The intersection of global investment, regenerative development, and community-building is at the heart of our mission. Through strategic partnerships and forward-thinking initiatives, applying our regenerative placemaking framework, we help individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of global mobility while centering positive environmental and social impact.
The Future of Cities Portugal+ Golden Visa Fund is more than a financial instrument—it’s a bridge to a future where mobility is a tool for empowerment, innovation, and resilience. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to expand your reach, a family seeking a secure future, or an investor committed to shaping better cities, global mobility is your gateway to limitless possibilities.
Interested in learning more about how the Portugal Golden Visa Fund can help you unlock global opportunities?
The Phoenix Arts & Innovation District, a Future of Cities regenerative placemaking development, has proudly unveiled its latest milestone: Emerald Station. This adaptive reuse project breathes new life into a 100-year-old warehouse, transforming 17,000 square feet of space into a hub for community revitalization and sustainable growth in Jacksonville’s North Springfield neighborhood.
A Model Public-Private Partnership
Emerald Station exemplifies the power of public-private partnerships, with a nearly $38 million investment led by Future of Cities (FoC) and supported by the City of Jacksonville. This collaboration signals a transformative opportunity for Jacksonville’s urban core, driving economic development while fostering arts and culture.
“The Phoenix Arts & Innovation District is an important development to the revitalization of Jacksonville’s urban core, complementing work within the historic Springfield and Eastside neighborhoods. As the new home to the offices of the Jacksonville Small and Emerging Business incubator, the Emerald Station will serve as a center of sustainable economic growth in this area by providing opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive.”
Mayor Donna Deegan | Jacksonville, Florida
PHX JAX: A Vision for Equity and Creativity
Spanning 10 properties over 8.3 acres, the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District is a visionary project rooted in the principles of equity, arts, and culture. Through its nonprofit arm, Friends of Phoenix, the district actively promotes community engagement and educational opportunities across four key pillars:
Arts and Culture: Celebrating creativity and diversity.
Sustainability: Pioneering green initiatives for long-term resilience.
Technology: Advancing innovation and connectivity.
Financial Stability: Empowering economic opportunities for local residents.
A Collaborative Effort
Emerald Station would not have been possible without the collective efforts of our partners and local talent. We extend our gratitude to:
JAA Architecture
Hota Design
Prosser Inc.
Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR)
Avant Construction
Special thanks also go to muralists Ansley Randall and Barbara Hionides, as well as artists Jarrett Walker, Tatiana Kitchen, Elena Ohlander, Chris Clark, and Mike Mcintire, whose works bring vibrant energy to the district.
Building a Brighter Future Together
The unveiling of Emerald Station is more than a milestone—it’s a testament to what’s possible when communities, governments, and private entities come together with a shared vision. This adaptive reuse project represents the heartbeat of regenerative placemaking: preserving history, fostering innovation, and promoting inclusivity.
Join us in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for Jacksonville. Visit the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District to experience the transformation firsthand and see how regenerative placemaking is redefining what’s possible in our urban spaces.
With a population of just 10 million, Portugal is making waves across Europe. This vibrant nation is a compelling mix of rich history, culture, and traditions infused with a bold, innovative spirit. As one of the most progressive and forward-thinking countries in the European Union, Portugal is shaping the future—and you can be a part of it.
Future of Cities: Expanding Horizons in Portugal
Future of Cities (FoC) is thrilled to announce our expansion to Portugal and Europe, marking a new chapter in our mission to drive regenerative placemaking on a global scale. Under the leadership of our visionary founder, Tony Cho, and in collaboration with Portuguese changemakers Duarte Melo Ribeiro and Maria Melo, we are embarking on transformative projects that prioritize sustainability, community well-being, and environmental stewardship.
This partnership reflects Portugal’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it the perfect setting to prototype innovative approaches to placemaking and resilience. Together, we are building a brighter, more sustainable future.
A Milestone: Beta Future of Cities Venture Capital Fund
The first project in our European journey is the launch of the Beta Future of Cities Venture Capital Fund, a groundbreaking initiative in partnership with Beta Capital. Guided by FoC’s Regenerative Placemaking principles, this fund invests in sustainable hospitality and community-driven revitalization projects that foster environmental renewal and vibrant, inclusive spaces.
The fund is also eligible for the Portugal Golden Visa, offering participants a pathway to EU citizenship without the need to relocate. This initiative not only drives social and environmental impact but also opens new opportunities for investors to join Portugal’s remarkable growth story.
Portugal’s dedication to achieving SDG Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities positions it as a leader in areas like circular economy, marine conservation, and water management. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, it’s no wonder the country is a top destination for visitors and expats alike.
This innovative spirit, combined with a robust ecosystem of changemakers, makes Portugal the ideal stage for expanding our regenerative vision.
Meet Our Partner: Duarte Melo Ribeiro
At the heart of this regenerative renaissance is our partner, Duarte Melo Ribeiro. Duarte brings a wealth of expertise in investment management and a passion for regenerative thinking, while Maria’s pioneering work in sustainability exemplifies the transformative leadership driving Portugal’s evolution. Together, they are shaping our shared mission to create thriving communities and promote holistic well-being.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
This venture represents more than an expansion; it’s a testament to the growing recognition of financial instruments as catalysts for positive change. By aligning investment opportunities with sustainability and social progress, we can collectively build a brighter, more equitable future.
As Portugal continues to innovate and inspire, Future of Cities is honored to contribute to its sustainability story. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, artist, or visionary, this is your chance to join a movement that’s reshaping the world.
Ready to be part of the future? Visit the link in the comments or send us a direct message to learn more about how you can get involved.
Together, let’s transform cities—and the planet—for generations to come.
Miami-based Developer Future of Cities Receives Unanimous Approval of $5.5 Million Incentive Package and Multifamily Rezoning from Jacksonville City Council for Phoenix Arts & Innovation District
Completion grant will support adaptive re-purposing of warehouses and greenspace while the rezoning will allow for 830 multifamily units to be built over the span of 8.3 owned acres.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — June 27, 2024 — Miami-based real estate developer Future of Cities (FoC) announced today it received approval of an incentive package totaling $5.5 million from the City of Jacksonville’s Office of Economic Development, as well as the approval of rezoning of its planned unit development (PUD) to permit commercial and multifamily residential uses for the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District (PHXJAX). The package and rezoning, outlined in Ordinances 2024-0418 and 2024-0348, were approved by the Jacksonville City Council on June 25, 2024.
“Today is a pivotal milestone for Phoenix Arts & Innovation District and the city of Jacksonville. This incentive package is a testament to the collaborative outcomes possible through genuine public-private partnerships. This is a major win for all of Jacksonville including the local artists, small businesses, greater Downtown residents and overall community to demonstrate to the world that creativity and capital investments work best when they work together.”
Tony Cho | CEO and Founder of Future of Cities and Founding Managing Partner of PHXJAX
PHXJAX is a regenerative placemaking demonstration project comprising 10 separate properties across 8.3 acres located in a federally designated Opportunity Zone in the North Springfield neighborhood of Jacksonville, Florida. The funds outlined in the Economic Development Agreement between Future of Cities and the City of Jacksonville will be provided in two phases as a Completion Grant in the amount of $2 million for each phase to support the adaptive rehabilitation of four warehouses and green space, transforming it into event and gathering spaces, creative office space, artist studios, galleries, retail and restaurants. In addition, the City of Jacksonville has authorized a 50% 15-year recaptured enhanced value (REV) grant not to exceed $1.5 million. In the Emerald Station’s creative offices property located at 2320 N. Liberty Street, PHXJAX is also providing dedicated office space to the Jacksonville Small and Emerging Business (JSEB) organization, which is a small business incubator run by the City of Jacksonville. These grants, coupled with Future of Cities’ investment of nearly $38 million into the project, demonstrate the strength of a public/private partnership approach when developing a community-focused project.
“People always ask us, ‘Why Jacksonville?’ And we ask, ‘Why not Jacksonville?’ Jacksonville has all the fundamentals to compete with other major Florida metros and it has been a true pleasure to work in Jacksonville with the support of the Mayor’s Office, City Council and the City’s exceptional, dynamic and diverse communities.”
Michael Weil | Chief Operating Officer of FoC and PHXJAX.
The first phase of the PHXJAX development began in December 2023 with the commencement of construction of The Emerald Station, featuring creative offices, community gathering spaces and a warehouse event facility. Construction has also begun on the Liberty Building, which will house 17,850 square feet of office, studios, galleries, small-format retail and restaurants. Complementing these buildings is a property located at 2335 Market Street that will be an outdoor market space serving as a greenspace for community activity. The district also includes a hub of the Emerald Trail, a planned network of 30+ miles of trails, greenways and parks connecting the urban core neighborhoods of Jacksonville. The Emerald Station is scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2024 while the Liberty Building is scheduled to be completed in the second quarter of 2025.
“This support from the City of Jacksonville is essential to the PHXJAX vision to co-create with the community a space for catalyzing art, culture and innovation to serve the greater good. As a third generation Jacksonvillian, I am so excited to help bring this project to life for Jacksonville as the first demonstration project of Future of Cities.”
Emily Moody, Vice President and Chief Experience Officer of PHXJAX
Tony Cho’s previous projects include the Wynwood Arts District and the Magic City Innovation District Little Haiti, both located in Miami, Florida. Emily Pierce and Hayden Phillips from Rogers Towers led the rezoning efforts on behalf of PHXJAX. The Emerald Station pre-leasing opportunities are available now. For more information, visit phxjax.com/emeraldstation.
About PHX JAX | The Phoenix Arts & Innovation District in Jacksonville, FL, is a regenerative placemaking project dedicated to building equity through community, arts, and culture, aiming to provide a global platform for artists and business incubation in Jacksonville’s North Springfield neighborhood. Collaborating with artists, residents, cultural instigators, and change makers in Jacksonville, the initiative by the Future of Cities team focuses on creating a vibrant, diverse neighborhood. To learn more about upcoming events and opportunities to get involved, visit phxjax.com.
About Friends of Phoenix | The non-profit arm of the PHXJAX project, Friends of Phoenix, is committed to fostering community engagement, enhancing educational opportunities and cultural experiences, by driving innovation. Aligning with the broader mission of the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District, Friends of Phoenix operates through four pillars: Arts and Culture, Sustainability, Technology, and Financial Stability.
About Future of Cities | Future of Cities was created to reimagine how we live, work, play and learn as a mission-driven platform invested in transforming the built environment. We take a holistic place-based approach to regenerative development to adopt environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategies that improve the quality of urban living across the globe.
Co-Working. Podcast Studio. Events
The Climate & Innovation HUB Miami is designed to cultivate a symbiosis between our local & global ecosystem of innovators, change makers & tastemakers to lead the next generation of Regenerative Placemakers.
We are extremely excited to introduce the newest addition to our ecosystem of innovators working on changing the future at the Climate & Innovation HUB – Miami as they prepare to deploy their underwater sculpture installations in Miami Beach this Fall!
Art as a Tool For Change | The Reefline is a 7 mile underwater public sculpture park, snorkel trail and purpose-built reef +600ft off of Miami Beach ~ launching Fall 2024
The Path of the Panther team used our podcast studio at the Climate & Innovation HUB co-working space to record an educational podcast designed to foster human and natural systems learning in children. Through captivating place-based storytelling, interviews with ecologists, ranchers and tribal leaders, and immersive landscapes, young listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the role of the Florida panther as a cultural and ecological keystone species, an organism that helps define an entire ecosystem. Stay tuned for more coming Fall 2024 …
Demonstrating the value of art and innovation for neighborhood revitalization in the heart of Jacksonville, FL
Phoenix Arts & Innovation District is a pioneering organization dedicated to the practices of creative placemaking, regenerative development, and adaptive reuse of commercial real estate. We are passionate about transforming spaces into vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive environments that foster community and creativity.
PROJECT UPDATES
Last week our Director of Community Engagement, Emily Moody and our Land Use attorney from Rogers Towers, Emily Pierce, successfully went in front of the City Planning Commission for unanimous approval of our PUD (Planned Unit Development) for the rezoning of our full 8.3 acre district. The final City Council vote will happen on June 18th. We have been diligently meeting with each and every council member on this and have been receiving positive feedback and support.
EMERALD STATION
It’s almost time to start hard hat tours for the Emerald Station! The 100 year old Emerald Station building houses a mix of 25 creative office spaces, a community gathering space and a 500 person event venue. Our team is on track to open in early Fall 2024 and is pre-booking both the offices and event venue now. This will become the creative and innovative HUB of the district with The Emerald Trail passing directly behind, offering convenient and accessible public transportation to and from the Arts & Innovation District including a small business incubator & accelerator program powered by Future of Cities | PHXJAX.
“The City of Jacksonville, Groundwork Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) are celebrating a ‘major victory’ in their commitment to delivering the Emerald Trail to the Jacksonville community.”
”Delivrance” ~ Indoor mural for the Climate & Innovation HUB powered by Future of Cities in Ti Ayiti | Little Haiti. Latex Paints on Walls | 20ft by 20ft (Stairway)
“In Haitian society, where formal job opportunities are scarce, women take on the role of primary caregivers and often rely on informal trade as their main source of employment. Referred to as the ‘Poto-mitan’ or ‘backbone’ of their communities, Haitian women bear the weight of family responsibilities, from nurturing children to providing economic support. Many, particularly those without access to education, turn to informal commerce, selling agricultural produce and other essentials. This mural pays tribute to the resilience and strength of Haitian women, depicting a central figure gracefully balancing a basket of fruits on her head, a skill that speaks volumes about her balance and expertise. Set against the backdrop of urban/rural Haiti, the artwork captures the vibrant tapestry of everyday life, steeped in a rich cultural heritage. Women are depicted navigating rugged landscapes with remarkable ease, embodying a spirit of determination as they fulfill their duties. The mural serves as a poignant reminder of an era when manual labor was indispensable for survival, showcasing the tenacity of Haitian women and their families as they traverse tropical terrain, hills and valleys. It stands as a testament to their invaluable contribution to society and their unwavering ability to surmount obstacles with grace and resilience. The title ‘Delivrance’ is in loving memory of my mother, Delivrance Brutus.”
JAMES BRUTUS
Shot by VACO Studio
James Brutus is a Haitian-American artist hailing from the vibrant city of Miami, Florida whose artistic journey has been a lifelong adventure that began during the earliest days of wielding crayons. Learn more about James’ work, mission and inspirations HERE.
