Jackson selected for grant program to boost economic growth
JANS – The City of Jackson has been selected to participate in the Southern Cities Economic Initiative (SCEI), a program led by the National League of Cities in partnership with the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. Jackson received a grant of $15,000 from NLC through funding by SCEI’s philanthropic partners and will join 19 other cities from across the Southern United States to develop strategies that boost economic mobility for residents and drive long-term economic growth.
SCEI programming includes tailored technical assistance, peer learning opportunities, access to data and experts from the Federal Reserve Bank, as well as connections to national funders and assistance to leverage longer-term funding, including an opportunity to apply for additional NLC grants of up to $60,000 and deeper assistance with strategy implementation.
“The City of Jackson is committed to fostering economic inclusion and mobility through strategic initiatives that support local businesses, entrepreneurs, and minority contractors,” Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba said. “We champion programs aimed at expanding economic opportunities for historically underrepresented communities.”
Through participation in this project, the city aims to enhance economic inclusion for minority contractors by providing comprehensive training, professional development, and resources. This initiative addresses barriers such as licensing, business capacity, and procurement requirements, ultimately positioning participants to secure contracts at the local, state, and federal levels, including at anchor institutions in healthcare and education, which power Jackson’s economy.
“Local governments play a critical role in driving economic growth and expanding opportunities for all residents,” said NLC CEO and Executive Director Clarence E. Anthony. “The South has significant potential to lead on economic resilience and serve as a model for the nation. We are thrilled to collaborate with the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta on the Southern Cities Economic Initiative to provide the tools to build stronger, more resilient economies.”
SCEI’s initial planning phase will run through October 31, 2025. Upon completion of the initial planning phase, participating cities will have an opportunity to advance to a more intensive implementation phase, which extends through December 2027.
This initiative is made possible through the generous support of The Annie E. Casey Foundation, The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, The Nathan Cummings Foundation, and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Learn more at nlc.org/initiative/southern-cities-economic-inclusion-scei-expanding-capacity-building-resilience.
