On January 10, 1888, a group of construction industry visionaries gathered to discuss the formation of an organization dedicated to the commercial development market. The meeting was a Who’s Who of historical Rochesterians, including T. W. Finnucane, G.H. Powell, Jr. and F.C. Seitz and J.B. Pike.

In March of 1888, approximately 150 men "were at the meeting in the new opera house last evening at the invitation of the committee of the Builders’ Exchange to hear the merits of the project explained by the men who have had experience with the working of similar institutions elsewhere." Mayer Parsons was elected chairman of the meeting and "performed the duties of the office with his usual suavity and success." More than 50 firms enrolled as members during the Exchange’s first year (annual dues were $50).

In 1929 The Builders Exchange occupied its own building at 135 Spring Street.

Moved to 180 Linden Oaks in 1992, where they remain today.