A Purdue University team captured first place and a $5,000 prize at the 2025 NAIOP Indiana University Case Challenge, held November 19 at the Carmichael Hotel in Carmel, Indiana.
Sponsored by Compass Commercial Construction Group, the event supports students through its scholarship fund and promotes the growth of future real estate leaders.
The Purdue team, comprised of , , , , and , competed against top programs from Indiana University, Butler, Notre Dame and Ball State University in a development case.
The 2025 challenge focused on a development site in downtown Indianapolis, adjacent to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium. Teams were asked to create a comprehensive development plan, and Purdue’s team proposed a mixed-use project featuring a casino, multifamily housing and retail.
After advancing from the first round, Purdue faced Ball State in the finals, where the winner was determined by a public vote of NAIOP representatives. Their presentation impressed the audience and secured Purdue the top prize. NAIOP is the Commercial Real Estate Development Association (once known as the National Association of Industrial and Office Parks). It is a trade association for developers, owners, investors, and other professionals in office, industrial, retail, and mixed-use commercial real estate.
The victory underscores Purdue’s strong track record in real estate competitions. The Dean V. White Real Estate Finance program gives students real-world experience in analyzing development projects and making strategic decisions, helping them build the skills needed to succeed in the industry.
