Washington D.C. — The National League of Cities (NLC) has awarded $20,000 in funding and hands-on capacity-building support to 12 cities across the country as part of its 2025 Advancing Economic Mobility Rapid Grant program. This initiative, backed by the Gates Foundation, is designed to help municipalities implement innovative strategies that promote upward economic mobility for their residents.
The selected cities — ranging from large urban centers to small towns — will receive not only financial resources, but also direct technical assistance, peer learning opportunities and strategic guidance from NLC experts. This comprehensive support empowers local leaders to design and scale programs that connect residents to employment, entrepreneurship and essential support services.
The 2025 grant recipients are:
- Antioch, California
- Chelsea, Massachusetts
- East Providence, Rhode Island
- Evanston, Illinois
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Hamtramck, Michigan
- Houston, Texas
- Kansas City, Missouri
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Pinedale, Wyoming
- Savannah, Georgia
- Young Harris, Georgia
Through this program, NLC is not only funding local initiatives but also serving as a strategic partner — helping cities navigate challenges, share best practices and build sustainable solutions that improve economic outcomes for residents.
“The National League of Cities is committed to helping local governments create thriving and resilient communities, which starts with ensuring economic mobility for every resident,” said NLC CEO and Executive Director Clarence E. Anthony. “Our Advancing Economic Mobility Rapid Grant program provides local leaders with the tools, funding and peer-to-peer connections they need to help create lasting pathways to financial stability and opportunity for their residents. With the support of the Gates Foundation, this initiative empowers municipalities to drive meaningful change and foster economic security that benefits their communities for generations to come.”
Data from Opportunity Insights (PDF) notes that children experience greater economic mobility as adults when they grow up in communities with increasing employment rates, even when their own parents’ employment status stays the same. With this third round of grants, NLC continues to expand its impact, reinforcing its commitment to economic equity and community prosperity nationwide.
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National League of Cities is the voice of America’s cities, towns and villages, representing more than 200 million people. NLC works to strengthen local leadership, influence federal policy and drive innovative solutions. Stay connected with NLC on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.