Build the Vote

HBA: Charlotte-DeSoto BIA

Category: Communications

Location: Port Charlotte, Fla.

Size: 201-600 members

Year: 2025

Charlotte-DeSoto Building Industry Association (CDBIA)’s BUILD the Vote initiative was designed to support the residential construction industry by advocating for the election of pro-development candidates and increasing the number of young voters with social media and education-based campaigns. For 20 years, Charlotte County, Fla., has faced anti-development agendas and a struggle to keep pro-building city council members in their seats. BUILD the Vote addressed these issues by educating and encouraging young voters’ participation in local elections, teaching them about the importance of development for their future, the economy and the candidates who would support this vital industry in their communities.

In 2025, CDBIA’s primary focus was keeping one member in her seat. It was successful in winning this first election in the city of Punta Gorda, Fla., while also achieving the goal to increase voter turnout for a single-item ballot election by 10% by targeting new voter groups between ages 18 and 29. The effort required active participation from members and volunteers who were reactive toward online rhetoric with educational responses and engaged younger audiences through text campaigns and posting on social media. Through educational seminars, working with local restaurants and implementing crucial campaign strategies to reach young voters, this initiative achieved electoral victory and demonstrated the importance of educating communities about the home building industry.