C-Level Awards 2026: Nicole Robbins, Executive Director, Martin Luther King Economic Development Corporation

Nicole Robbins leads the Martin Luther King Economic Development Corporation (MLKEDC) as executive director, a position she has held since 2017. Founded in 1995, the Milwaukee-based nonprofit focuses on real estate development, property ownership and property management.

Robbins brings more than 20 years of legal and real estate experience to her role. She simultaneously serves as managing attorney and CEO of Robbins Law Group, which she founded in 2011. Her earlier career includes posts as a corporate and regulatory attorney at Walgreen Co. headquarters and as deputy register in probate and court commissioner for Milwaukee County Circuit Court.

Under her leadership, MLKEDC works to maintain a pipeline of real estate development opportunities, forge community-focused partnerships and use market data to guide project amenities. Robbins engages directly with community members to identify and respond to evolving neighborhood needs.

She serves on the boards of Legacy Redevelopment Corporation and Movin’ Out, a Madison, Wis.-based organization, where she chairs the finance committee. She is also treasurer of the Mequon Milwaukee Rotary Diversity Club and a member of the Milwaukee Bar Association, State Bar of Wisconsin and Illinois State Bar.

“I’m an experienced leader with over 20 years of experience in real estate and law, that uses a mix of innovative solutions and practical expertise to drive results and positively impact the community,” Robbins said.