About Us
Who is Trenton Makes?
Founded in 1997 by visionary entrepreneur Roland Pott, Trenton Makes® Inc. is a leading developer of commercial and mixed-use properties based in Trenton, New Jersey. Dedicated to revitalizing urban neighborhoods, the company transforms underutilized spaces into thriving communities that prioritize sustainability and vibrancy.
Under the guidance of President Roland Pott, Trenton Makes® Inc. is expertly managed with a focus on fostering growth and executing innovative urban redevelopment projects. The team takes pride in their accomplishments and actively collaborates with community partners to shape the future of Trenton and its surrounding areas.
Small Business Ventures
As a catalyst for Trenton’s cultural and economic renewal, Trenton Makes® Inc. has long supported the arts and community engagement. In response to the need for cultural enrichment, the company launched Urban Word Café in 1999. This lively venue quickly became a cultural hub, showcasing musicians, poets, and artists while hosting diverse events such as live performances, poetry readings, and art exhibitions. From 1999 to 2003, Urban Word Café served as a cornerstone of Trenton’s artistic community.
The legacy of Urban Word Café continues today through Trenton Social, a restaurant owned by Urban Word, LLC. Trenton Social features fine food and drinks, art shows by local artists, and community-focused events.
Building on this success, Trenton Makes® Inc. opened Conduit in 2001, a state-of-the-art music venue housed in a renovated industrial space. The venue became a focal point for the arts in Central New Jersey. In 2011, the company adapted the space into Front Row Seat Productions, LLC, a high-tech recording and video production facility, further demonstrating its commitment to evolving community needs and the creative industry. As a driving force in the region’s redevelopment, Trenton Makes® Inc. is dedicated to enhancing the local arts scene and fostering community engagement.
Redevelopment Projects
Trenton Makes® Inc. has been instrumental in transforming historic and dormant properties into vibrant spaces that drive economic and cultural activity.
- 118 South Warren Street: A historic 5,000-square-foot, three-story mixed-use property that had been vacant for years. Trenton Makes® Inc. restored it to its full potential, creating opportunities within a resurgent downtown, steps from the $30 million Wyndham Hotel.
- Clinton Lofts: A 22-unit residential property near the Trenton Transit Center. With final site plan approval granted by the Trenton Planning Board, construction began in summer 2024. This project exemplifies the company’s focus on sustainable urban living solutions.
About Trenton Makes® Inc.
Trenton Makes® Inc. remains dedicated to developing innovative urban projects that blend arts, culture, lifestyle, and targeted retail to revitalize neighborhoods and create economic opportunities for customers and investors alike.
Contact Information
Trenton Makes® Inc.
439 South Broad Street
Trenton, NJ 08611
Tel: 609-656-1199
Fax: 609-989-7737
