LivingCities

Living Cities operates as a unique collaborative of leading philanthropic foundations and financial institutions, dedicated to fostering equitable and inclusive wealth building. The organization addresses systemic barriers through targeted capital investment, shared knowledge, and collective action, aiming to close the income and wealth gap within U.S. cities. Its core approach involves partnering with local governments and community organizations to implement strategies that challenge the status quo and advance inclusive capital in key wealth-building pathways.

The organization originated in 1991 as the National Community Development Initiative, founded by a consortium of major financial institutions and foundations including Bankers Trust Co., NationsBank, Chase Manhattan Bank, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. This collaborative was initially formed to provide capital and build the capacity of Community Development Corporations. Over time, Living Cities evolved its focus from neighborhood transformation to a broader engagement with interrelated urban systems, ultimately pivoting to address and close racial income and wealth gaps.

Living Cities’ efforts benefit U.S. cities, local governments, and communities, particularly those from historically marginalized backgrounds. The organization's long-term vision is to ensure all urban residents achieve economic security, build wealth, and live abundant, dignified lives. It works to achieve this by leveraging the collective power of its members and partners to drive systemic change, creating an inclusive economy where opportunities are accessible to all.