BLDG-UP was founded in 1998 by Ben LoPiccolo and grew out of hands-on real estate work in Jersey City and the surrounding region. Ben started his career in the trades, working directly in the field as a painter and later across multiple areas of construction. That early, ground-level experience shaped how BLDG-UP operates today. We focus on what actually happens on projects, not just what looks good on paper. Over the years, BLDG-UP grew from smaller renovation work into larger and more complex development projects. Along the way, we worked through different market cycles and learned where projects tend to break down. That experience reinforced the importance of structure, accountability, and clear decision-making, especially when capital, risk, and regulations intersect. In 2016, Kevin Kansagra joined the firm after investing in Boniface Lofts, a historic redevelopment led by BLDG-UP. With a background in finance, Kevin added strength in capital planning, financial oversight, and coordination with lenders and investors. His partnership with Ben helped strengthen how execution and financing work together on complex projects. Today, BLDG-UP focuses on leading execution. We work alongside owners and capital partners to manage development and construction, coordinate teams, and keep projects aligned from early planning through completion. We do not advise from the sidelines. We step in and take responsibility. We are selective about the projects we take on. We focus on situations where experienced leadership and clear accountability make a real difference in reducing risk and getting projects finished the right way.