ICMA's pilot Economic Mobility and Opportunity Cohort brought together teams from ten diverse local governments in 2023. The local governments were selected through a process that gauged readiness to implement EMO-centered strategies through policies, practices, processes, and programs. Click the links below to read more about the teams and their local activities supported through this program.
- Beloit, Wisconsin
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Beloit, Wisconsin crafted an affordable childcare action plan aimed at boosting workforce participation and enhancing economic stability.
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- Chesterfield County, Virginia
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Chesterfield County, Virginia launched the Learn, Explore, and Advance with Possibilities (LEAP) series of “micro conferences" providing access to wraparound services targeted for young adults, their English as a Second Language community, and users and providers of childcare services.
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Through multifaceted strategy, Chesterfield aims to increase access to quality, affordable childcare
- Dubuque, Iowa
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To support implementation of the city's Equitable Poverty Reduction and Prevention Plan, Dubuque, Iowa facilitated intercultural enrichment activities to engage targeted populations in workforce development opportunities and provided small, flexible startup grants to historically disadvantaged entrepreneurs.
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Learn more about the Equitable Poverty Reduction & Prevention Plan »
- El Paso County, Texas
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El Paso County, Texas funded a service-gap analysis to address shift-dependent childcare services and reduce barriers to workforce entry.
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GovLove Podcast: Innovation in Economic Mobility with Jose Landeros, El Paso County, TX
- Grand Island, Nebraska
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Grand Island, Nebraska quantified transportation challenges faced by students and early career workers in accessing jobs, education, and training opportunities, and identified a range of potential short-term and longer-term solutions for further evaluation.
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Gates Foundation takes on poverty in the U.S. with $100 million commitment
- Gresham, Oregon
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Gresham, Oregon drafted a poverty reduction and prevention plan that incorporated the resources of local nonprofit organizations and other community partners.
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- Meadville, Pennsylvania
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Meadville, Pennsylvania developed a housing action plan articulating roles for the city, its redevelopment authority, and other regional partners in enhancing the supply of and access to affordable housing.
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- Morgan Hill, California
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Through a process involving a community needs assessment, convening of a resource asset network, and a gap and opportunity analysis, the City of Morgan Hill, CA developed Elevate! Morgan Hill -- a strategy that aims to connect Spanish-speaking and lower-income community members to jobs and housing resources and to increase their sense of belonging to the community.
Related Links
Morgan Hill's Economic Mobility / ELEVATE Morgan Hill Website
Morgan Hill's Path to a Better Future: Diverse Voices on Affordable Housing Video
- San Juan County, Utah
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San Juan County, Utah developed an outreach and educational program designed to improve economic mobility among Native American populations and reduce barriers to public sector employment.
- Tarboro, North Carolina
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Tarboro, NC commissioned an evidence-backed, third-party housing study documenting needs and opportunities for safe, sustainable, affordable housing for the community, laying the foundation for future policy, procedures, and marketing and incentives.
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ICMA's Economic Mobility and Opportunity Cohort brought together teams from fifteen diverse local governments in 2024. The local governments were selected through a process that gauged readiness to implement EMO-centered strategies through policies, practices, processes, and programs. Read more about the teams and their local activities supported through this program.
- Charlottesville, VA
Charlottesville, Virginia, in collaboration with the University of Virginia, embarked on a comprehensive analysis of service gaps impacting the economic mobility of ALICE community members. This initiative aims to strategically guide future programs, partnerships, and investments.
- Danville, VA
Danville, Virginia has finalized an Economic Mobility Work Plan, set to be executed by their newly appointed Economic Mobility and Opportunity Manager. This pivotal role, initially reporting to the City Manager's Office, will spearhead efforts to enhance economic opportunities within the community.
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- Denton, TX
Denton, Texas undertook a strategic assessment to guide future investments and launched an innovative small business boot camp program. This initiative aims to empower local entrepreneurs and foster economic growth.
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- Eau Claire, WI
Eau Claire, Wisconsin hired an analyst to enhance the coordination of support and services, aiming to significantly improve youth outcomes.
- Gaithersburg, MD
Gaithersburg, Maryland initiated a strategic partnership between their local Financial Empowerment Center and an elementary school to enhance the financial stability of Spanish-speaking and New American parents. This collaboration aims to provide vital resources and support to these communities.
- La Marque, TX
La Marque, Texas collaborated with the Gulf Coast Transit District to introduce an innovative on-demand micro-transit service. This initiative aims to significantly enhance residents' access to employment and educational opportunities.
- Lisbon, ME
Lisbon, Maine created the Lisbon Empowerment and Achievement Program (LEAP) which provides residents with training on a range of topics related to financial literacy.
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- Miami Gardens, FL
Miami Gardens, Florida, in collaboration with Florida International University, has completed a comprehensive vacant property study. This initiative aims to identify available parcels for development, paving the way for future growth and revitalization.
- Needles, CA
Needles, California completed a comprehensive housing study to assess both current and future demands for market-rate and affordable housing. This initiative aims to strategically address the community's evolving housing needs.
- Newton, KS
Newton, Kansas joined forces with Latino Unidos and the Wichita State University Public Policy & Management Center to conduct a comprehensive community needs assessment for Latinx residents. This initiative aims to identify and address the unique needs of this vibrant community.
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- Prescott Valley, AZ
Prescott Valley, Arizona completed a comprehensive Economic Mobility Analysis to pinpoint strategic opportunities for future investment and planning. This initiative aims to drive sustainable growth and enhance economic prospects for the community.
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- Redwood City, CA
Redwood City, California launched a bilingual, youth-focused EMO survey designed to shape the vision for future economic mobility and safety strategies. This initiative aims to engage young voices in crafting a more inclusive and secure future for the community.
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- Thomasville, NC
Thomasville, North Carolina created a city-sponsored tool and equipment-sharing program designed to promote code compliance, volunteerism, and social cohesion.
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- Tunica County, MS
Tunica County, Mississippi conducted extensive community engagement to formulate a visionary five-year EMO strategic plan. This initiative aims to shape future economic mobility and safety initiatives, fostering a more prosperous and secure community.
Related Links
Economic Mobility & Opportunity Five-Year Strategic Plan 2025-2029
- Washington County, OR
Washington County, Oregon completed a comprehensive economic opportunity assessment to pinpoint strategic opportunities for enhancing service delivery throughout the county. This initiative aims to drive efficiency and better serve the community's needs.
