Haroun CowansFounder & Managing Principal at Goshen DevelopmentSpeaker, Advisor
Profile
Haroun is a distinguished leader in social impact, finance and philanthropy, with over two decades of experience driving development and investment in Denver’s historic Five Points District. As the founder and managing principal of Goshen Development, he oversees operations, client relations, partnerships, business development, strategic planning and consultation. Beyond his business endeavors, he finds his greatest fulfillment as lead teacher and pastor at Zera Israel Fellowship.
Throughout his career, the executive leader has excelled in real estate and finance, holding pivotal roles such as chief real estate officer, commercial real estate broker and financial services advisor at Merrill Lynch. His extensive experience also includes managing retail financial branches, raising capital for startups and providing strategic investment guidance to support the growth and development of Colorado’s real estate landscape.
A dedicated advocate for community growth, Haroun has forged deep connections within the Five Points and greater Denver communities through his work and board leadership. Previously, he served on the boards of the Denver East YMCA and Cleo Parker Robinson Dance, in addition to serving as the previous chair of YouthBiz.
He currently serves on several influential boards for the Colorado Enterprise Fund, Historic Denver, Denver Health Foundation, Black Resilience in Colorado and Denver Cultural Property Trust, in addition to being appointed by the Mayor of Denver to the Board of Human Services and the Advisory Committee for Housing People Experiencing Homelessness. As co-chair of the Denver African American Philanthropists and chair of the Five Points Business Improvement District and B.E.S.T. Summit, his acumen towards community advancement and financial innovation has solidified his reputation as a visionary leader committed to creating lasting impact.
Haroun’s leadership has earned him recognition in prominent publications, including Denver Post, The Real Deal, Forbes, Denver Business Journal, Denver Urban Spectrum, Vice Magazine, Westword and 303 Magazine, with feature appearances on Denver Channel 7 and 9News. His enthusiasm for social change and economic empowerment continues to shape communities and inspire those around him.
Haroun’s involvement was very instrumental for the nation’s first state wide Middle income housing authority being passed through Colorado’s legislature in 2022.