NLC awards rapid grants to 12 cities to boost economic mobility

WASHINGTON — The National League of Cities has selected 12 municipalities for its 2025 Advancing Economic Mobility Rapid Grant program, awarding each $20,000 in funding plus hands-on capacity-building support to help residents climb the economic ladder.

Backed by the Gates Foundation, the program pairs cash with technical assistance, peer-learning sessions and strategic guidance from NLC staff. The goal: equip local leaders to launch or expand initiatives that link residents to jobs, entrepreneurship and key support services.

“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.

Grant recipients are:

• Antioch, Calif.
• Chelsea, Mass.
• East Providence, R.I.
• Evanston, Ill.
• Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
• Hamtramck, Mich.
• Houston;
• Kansas City, Mo.
• Philadelphia
• Pinedale, Wyo.
• Savannah, Ga.
• Young Harris, Ga.

In addition to project dollars, each city will receive direct coaching and access to a national peer network to share best practices and troubleshoot obstacles.

NLC notes that research from Opportunity Insights shows children achieve higher earnings as adults when they grow up in communities with rising employment rates, even if their parents’ job status stays the same. By funding locally driven solutions and providing on-the-ground expertise, NLC aims to scale programs that create long-term pathways to financial security.

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