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American Cities

We seek to expand equity and opportunity in American Cities by promoting transformative and inclusive community development

American Cities Funding Opportunities
 
Key Impact Stat

$22m

American Cities Program grants provided to partners in 2025

About The American Cities Program

The American Cities Program expands opportunity by promoting effective and inclusive community development practices in our three focus cities outside Detroit and in cities nationwide. We support cities at varying levels of intensity, ranging from deep, long-term commitments in our focus cities of Fresno, Memphis and New Orleans, to more discrete investments in places where there are opportunities to make timely investments, learn or apply our knowledge.  

American cities are the frontlines of advancing economic mobility and increasing opportunity. This includes improving access to affordable housing, vibrant public spaces, meaningful workforce preparation and reliable public transit. 

But not everyone has equal access to these opportunities. That’s why we collaborate with local leaders and organizations to define challenges, shape solutions and drive change. By creatively activating resources and centering community voices, we can move toward true shared opportunity.  

Funding Guidelines

We seek efforts that will result in expanded opportunity for city residents, engage the community in a meaningful way, have potential for long-term sustainability or community impact, and have potential for scalability or translation to other communities. We use an array of funding and investment tools to foster change, including project grants, operating support, planning grants and program-related investments.

Program-related investments may take the form of direct loans, guarantees that provide borrowers with linked deposits or other credit support tools. Most of our grants span one to three years. We also convene partners to learn and lead. And when project proposals offer opportunities to advance the goals of multiple Kresge programs, those teams will jointly fund the proposal.


How to Apply

American Cities Grants Made

American Cities Social Investments Made