About The American Cities Program

America’s cities are linchpins of socioeconomic mobility and increased opportunity. In many cities, however, access to opportunity is not shared equitably among all people.

This makes our urban centers the frontlines of advancing opportunity including access to quality, affordable housing; vibrant, connected neighborhoods; meaningful workforce preparation and employment opportunities; and reliable public transit. Local leaders and organizations are working across sectors to define challenges, shape solutions and drive catalytic changes that expand opportunity for people with low incomes. Kresge’s American Cities Program is committed to supporting this transformation. We leverage the breadth of the foundation’s national grantmaking programs and the depth of the foundation’s experience built from our work in Detroit. We emphasize on-the-ground community development practice.