About
At Uplift Development Group, we specialize in identifying, developing, acquiring, and managing high-performing self-storage and flex-space assets in high-growth markets across the United States. With more than two decades of real estate development experience, we turn opportunities into results through a rigorous, detail-oriented process that filters more than 350 deals a year—ultimately pursuing just 10 or so of the most promising.
A Proven System for Smart Growth
Our approach is deliberate. We apply a multi-tiered Go/No-Go review process that includes internal evaluation, on-the-ground inspections, proprietary software tools, third-party analysis, and conservative budgeting. It’s this level of scrutiny that empowers us to execute fundamentally strong investments time and time again.
We also maintain deep relationships in the industry—often giving us first look at off-market deals that never hit the open market. Our reputation is everything, and it’s built on honesty, transparency, and our ability to close.
What We’re Looking For
As Uplift Self Storage continues to scale, we actively seek out:
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New Development opportunities (2–4 acres in high-visibility, growing areas, often part of master-planned communities)
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Conversions of large buildings (90K+ SF, good condition, ideally single-story) in desirable locations
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Acquisitions of under-managed or expandable properties, especially in the Sunbelt region and markets with less than 8 SF of self-storage per capita
We focus on markets with high organic traffic, good visibility, and strong residential growth near commercial corridors. Whether it’s ground-up builds or value-add acquisitions, we’re laser-focused on creating assets that generate powerful, sustainable cash flow.
Leadership Team
Brandon Grebe
CEO, Co-Founder
Lee Fredrick
Executive Chairman, Co-founder
Tony Ollila
Partner, Director of Development
Luke Williams
Director of Finance and Accounting
Dan Fisher
Director of Property Management
Our Story
2015 - The Beginning
Colorado & Texas
Lee and Brandon joined forces to launch GYS Development, a company rooted in a shared vision of building something meaningful in the self-storage space. What started with a few developments and acquisitions per year quickly evolved into a thriving venture.
2016 - Laying the Foundation
Vertical Integration Begins
The duo brought in David Harvey, and together they launched GYS General Contracting, a full-service general contracting company. This arm of the business helped bring their developments - and those of their clients - to life with in-house control and execution.
2017 - In the Spotlight
Featured in Construction Today
In 2017, the company was highlighted in Construction Today magazine with an article about the early successes of their vertically integrated services. The recognition affirmed the strength of their development and construction model, built to streamline operations and increase value.
2015–2019 – Strategic Growth
15 Properties Nationwide
They pursued a steady pace of 2–3 developments and 1–3 acquisitions per year, primarily in Texas and Colorado. By 2019, their disciplined approach had resulted in a strong, private portfolio of 15 institutional-quality storage assets nationwide.
2020 - A Major Breakthrough
Blue Sky & NSA Partnership
A new chapter unfolded when the team secured a 36-property, 2 million+ square foot portfolio in Texas. This milestone led to a partnership with National Storage Affiliates (NSA) and the formation of the Blue Sky brand, elevating them into the REIT space.
2020-2024 - Blue Sky Era
41 Properties | $438M+ Portfolio Exit
Under Blue Sky, they scaled rapidly to 41 properties across multiple states. In July 2024, NSA acquired the entire Blue Sky portfolio — a landmark $438 million+ exit that marked the success of years of calculated growth.
2024 - A New Chapter: Uplift Self Storage
Rebrand & Realignment
Post-acquisition, the company re-emerged as Uplift Self Storage, focusing on its 18 privately held properties. This refreshed brand represents their continued commitment to high-performance assets and a streamlined, integrated approach.
Today - Uplift Development Group
A Fully Integrated Operator
From concept to completion, Uplift operates as a turnkey developer, owner, and operator — managing a portfolio of mostly Gen5 developments under 5 years old.
2025 & Beyond – Scaling with Purpose
Sun Belt Focus
With plans to expand to 45+ properties, Uplift continues to target high-growth Sun Belt markets. Every development is more than a facility — it’s a strategic investment in long-term performance.
Why Self-Storage?
Self-storage is one of the most attractive asset classes in commercial real estate today—backed by strong market fundamentals:
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Recession resistance
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Low operational costs
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Diversified tenant base
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High margins and stable demand
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Flexible business models and future-proof technology
The Results Speak for Themselves
Our track record includes successful projects across Colorado, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, and Kansas—delivering a 40.81% average ROI and generating millions in investor wealth. From Denver to Phoenix to Austin, our projects are creating lasting value for partners and communities alike.
Join us and elevate your portfolio with Uplift Development Group