Bike & Build was founded in 2002 by Marc Bush. Marc was a former leader of the Habitat Bicycle Challenge and wanted to expand upon that program. Marc believes that this type of experience empowers young adults to take socially conscious and responsible action. The money each trip raises through this effort enables affordable housing organizations to expand operations and serve more constituents. Additionally, the publicity that each trip generates creates a more informed communal awareness about this issue.

Beginning with two trips in the summer of 2003, Bike & Build added a new trip every year with the support and initiative of a dedicated and passionate base of alumni. By 2009 the program was producing the eight cross country rides you can see featured on its website currently. In addition, 2009 saw the launch of not only its eighth full route, but also a shorter ride called the Capital Ride. The Bike & Build program does not anticpate expanding its cross country routes beyond the eight it has, but is considering launching more shorter rides similar in set-up to the Capital RIde over the next few years. In addition, its growing alumni base poses an excellent source of potential growth as its regional presence in major cities (e.g. New York, Washington D.C., and Boston) increases each year.

Above all, Bike & Build aims to continue expanding nationally and to empower a diverse and motivated participant base while directing increased funding and support to grassroots affordable housing efforts. To date over 1,500 participants have cycled cross-country with Bike & Build, collectively raising over $3.3 million. In addition, Bike & Build has worked with thousands of Americans to spread awareness about the affordable housing cause. The organization continues to grow as its dedicated program participants and outstanding alumni seek creative ways to continue fundraising, advocating for, and volunteering with affordable housing groups nationwide.

Bike & Build currently employs two full-time staff members:

Program Directors Brendan Newman and Natalie Serle.

In addition to its small full time staff, a part time interim Director of Operations(Molly Jacobs) and a seasonal intern (Megan Healy) chip in on a wide variety of projects.