Minority Architects Group Partners with Passive House Network

The National Organization of Minority Architects and The Passive House Network signed a memorandum of understanding this week, formalizing a partnership aimed at expanding access to high-performance building design among minority architects and students.

The agreement, announced Wednesday, creates a shared framework for collaboration on education, professional development, and climate-responsive design. Both groups said they want to ensure that passive house principles – which focus on reducing energy demand through insulation, airtightness, and heat-recovery ventilation – reach communities most affected by climate and housing inequities.

Under the MOU, NOMA members will contribute as presenters, case-study leaders, and co-creators of programming, not just as participants. PHN will provide technical expertise, curriculum support, and professional resources. The structure reflects what the groups called "shared authorship, shared visibility, and shared accountability."