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Innovative leaders coming together.
In October 2023, the Regional Inclusive Growth Network was launched by Brookings Metro with support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. This initiative aims to promote racially equitable local economies in eight chosen small and mid-sized cities. The network will assist these cities in an 18-month collaborative process, developing goals, capabilities, practices, and strategic investments centered on economic and racial inclusion. Facing challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, economic crisis, and social and racial reckoning, these cities require policies for inclusive economic growth.
The selected multi-sector coalitions play a crucial role in directing private sector resources for sustainable, equitable economic development. Brookings Metro will collaborate with partners in these cities to foster inclusive economic conditions, enhance civic roles, and drive private sector change.
The eight organizations and/or partnerships invited to participate include:
Akron, Ohio’s Greater Akron Chamber
Birmingham, Alabama’s Prosper
Des Moines, Greater Des Moines Partnership
Richmond, Virginia’s ChamberRVA and Greater Richmond Partnership
St. Louis, Missouri’s Greater St. Louis, Inc.
Cincinnati, Ohio’s Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber
New Orleans, Louisiana’s Urban League of Louisiana
Kansas City, Missouri’s KC Rising and the Civic Council of Greater Kansas City