As LEVEL’s CEO and Founder, Jason Tigano, strives to make buying a home affordable and equitable for residents across Western PA. Guided by the ethos that homeownership is the heart of thriving, stable communities, Jason’s leadership bolsters the organization’s capacity to positively impact neighborhoods and their stakeholders. His background is rooted in more than two decades of experience working at the intersection of government policy, community engagement, economic development, and nonprofit advocacy. Jason’s extensive expertise is commensurate with his unwavering commitment to creating affordable housing opportunities in the region.

Jason is a dedicated public servant who has worked with all levels of state and federal legislators to champion innovation through development. Graduating from Duquesne University with a Masters Degree in Social & Public Policy with a concentration in Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies, Jason bridges empathy and sincerity with strategy and tenacity. Having spent much of his career on the frontlines alongside local municipalities, neighborhood nonprofits, and city constituents, he witnessed firsthand the challenges and needs of Pittsburghers. Acting as a liaison between residents and their representatives, he prioritized opportunities for collaboration, connection, and conversation. A resourceful and solution-oriented partner, Jason operates with a “boots on the ground” approach that yields tangible results. Throughout the past 20 years, he’s led multiple large-scale efforts to reimagine the city’s real estate landscape while affecting positive change within underserved communities.

After having a “seat at both sides of the table,” Jason knew that homeownership is the core of social, cultural, technological, and economic development. It is also a process that is difficult to navigate and unattainable for many Americans, including those in the Rust Belt. By early 2020, Jason conceived of a path that could activate an affordable housing initiative in Pittsburgh and beyond. Since its inception in 2021, LEVEL has grown from an idea to a fully realized initiative that is making the dream of owning a home a reality for many.

Currently, Jason lives in the Brookline neighborhood of Pittsbugh and continues to give back to his community. He is the Board President at Brookline Teen Outreach, while serving on the boards of Elizabeth Seton Center and NeighborhoodWorks WPA. When Jason isn’t working to broaden LEVEL’s reach, he’s a dedicated uncle, a recording musician, and avid traveller. As a proud Italian American, he’s spent time in Italy studying and learning to speak Italian. Jason’s pursuit of cultural and creative competency gives him a unique ability to respond to humanitarian challenges—affordable housing being a top priority.