catalysts of change.
together,
we flourish.
Karnerblue accelerates community investment for sustainable growth and a higher quality of life across the Greater Chicago region. We work where it matters most, in cities and towns where disinvestment and opportunity exist side by side.
We unite urban planning expertise, development solutions, cross-sector collaboration, and civic engagement to remove barriers, disrupt systemic patterns, and drive real transformation. Our integrative approach empowers leaders to make bold, catalytic decisions in planning, funding, and implementing strategic initiatives.
When genuine investments are made, meaningful change follows, and people and places thrive. Let us help your community its way forward.
~navigating the complexities~
economic
development
Concept to Completion
We advise and manage planning and development projects that advance local, regional, state and federal goals and objectives for economic growth, job creation and cross-sector partnerships.
community
development
Vision to Vibrancy
We advise, create and manage holistic, strategic action plans for revitalizing neighborhoods, downtowns and communities as a whole through civic engagement.
fund
development
Budget to Balance
We bring a funder’s perspective to securing game changing investments. We offer a full suite of grant services for developing project opportunities. Best when paired with advisory services.
~the karnerblue effect~
innovativn
Aligning development priorities with unique community needs through customized holistic solutions for transforming places.
collaboration
Expanding awareness through relationships between leaders and residents rooted in a shared vision and a common ground for meaningful change from within.
participation
Democratizing the development process by facilitating co-creative processes for people to be seen, heard and influential in shaping projects' impact on quality of life.
where
the public benefits.
$238.8mm
Public infrastructure investments through economic and community redevelopment investments at regional and local levels.
$9.5mm
State and local grant funds under co-management for economic and community redevelopment.
$12.5mm
Federal, state and foundation grant applications for economic and community redevelopment projects under funding review.
5,000 residents
Public outreach and engagement to residents and stakeholders for quality of life research, master planning, and project implementation.
tina rongers MUPP
president & catalyst
As Founder, President & Catalyst, Tina oversees the delivery of management consulting services across a diverse client portfolio. She collaborates directly with elected officials, senior management, key stakeholders, technical teams, and residents to co-lead the planning, implementation, and funding of pivotal projects and programs. Her firm is a certified Indiana WBE/DBE and a federally registered contractor.
Tina is a trusted advisor, seasoned urban planner, and successful grant writer with a deep passion for systemic change and sustainable growth that benefits all for generations ahead. She holds a master's degree with an economic development specialization from University of Illinois-Chicago and is completing her doctoral dissertation at Meridian University. She is American Planning Association member.