This story appears in the June 2025 issue of Utah Business. Subscribe.
Utah’s economic growth and quality of life are deeply connected to businesses that prioritize community impact alongside financial success. Companies that take a mission-driven approach to development help shape the state’s future by addressing critical needs such as housing, infrastructure and sustainability. By fostering innovation, creating jobs and investing in communities, businesses play a vital role in ensuring Utah remains a thriving place to live and work.
For decades, Ivory Homes has been a shining example of mission-driven and community-focused leadership. With a deep commitment to affordability, sustainability and accessibility, the company has consistently worked to meet the growing housing demands of Utah’s expanding population while engaging in housing-based advocacy that supports Utah residents.
Addressing Utah’s housing challenges
Utah’s rapid population growth has brought increased demand for housing and rising home prices. Research from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute highlights that homeownership has become increasingly difficult for many Utahns, and the Salt Lake Chamber has increased its focus on housing in both this year’s legislative priorities and the business-driven Utah Rising initiative.
Not only has Ivory Homes been a key advocate for affordable housing initiatives and a guiding partner in the housing focus area of Utah Rising, but they are also actively spearheading new developments and initiatives to increase the availability of affordable housing across the state. One recent effort includes a strategic partnership to build approximately 850 affordable housing units over the next three years; units will provide much-needed stability and security for working Utahns and families struggling with rising housing costs.
Innovation and investment in housing
One of the key ways Ivory Homes drives change in Utah’s homebuilding industry is through Ivory Innovations, a nonprofit initiative founded by Clark Ivory, CEO of Ivory Homes, to promote solutions in housing affordability by supporting research, investment and collaboration.
Through its Ivory Prize, an annual monetary award program, Ivory Innovations recognizes and supports the most promising advancements in construction, financing and policy reform. This initiative has propelled groundbreaking ideas into real-world applications, directly influencing housing markets across the country.
A commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth
Ivory Homes integrates sustainability into its housing solutions, ensuring that new developments prioritize energy and water efficiency, responsible land use, and environmental consciousness. Moreover, its mission is about creating strong communities. Ivory Homes’ projects foster inclusivity, ensuring that families from diverse backgrounds have access to safe and affordable housing.
As Utah continues to grow, the demand for housing solutions will increase. We will need mission-driven businesses that prioritize Utahns and their needs. In both regards, Ivory Homes is poised to meet this challenge head-on, combining research, investment and strategic partnerships to create lasting change. By redefining what is possible in housing affordability and sustainable development, Ivory Homes is not just building houses — it is building a stronger, more vibrant Utah for future generations.
