From Recognition to Reflection: Cincinnati Shines at NGIN’s SCALE Convening to Kick Off 12-Month Program
Cincinnati served as the perfect backdrop this October as delegates from across the country gathered for NGIN’s SCALE (Strategic Capacity for Advancing Local Economies) convening—an immersive learning experience designed to spark ideas, collaboration, and momentum for a 12-month technical assistance program focused on community wealth building and commercial real estate development. The city’s own story of transformation—rooted in partnership and purpose—set the tone for this inaugural gathering.
Celebrating Inclusive Leadership
One of the week’s defining moments came when Mayor Aftab Pureval received NGIN’s Award for Economic Excellence, recognizing his leadership in positioning Cincinnati as a model for innovative economic development. Under his direction, the city has deepened partnerships with Co-op Cincy, 3CDC, and The Port, aligning public, private, and community efforts to expand worker ownership, revitalize neighborhoods, and build pathways to shared prosperity.
Mayor Pureval’s recognition placed him among a growing network of mayors nationwide leading with a new approach ensuring that as their cities grow, access to opportunity grows with them.
Learning from Cincinnati’s Ecosystem
Over four days, delegates explored the interconnected fabric of Cincinnati’s economy.
At Findlay Market, one of the city’s oldest and most vibrant public markets, participants learned how small business incubation and food entrepreneurship can serve as powerful tools for community wealth-building. The Findlay Kitchen Incubator showcased how access to commercial space, mentorship, and local networks helps entrepreneurs—particularly women, immigrants, and BIPOC owners—thrive.
The visit to CityLink Center offered a look at holistic, community-driven collaboration in action. Delegates met with local leaders who shared how bringing multiple nonprofits, employers, and public agencies under one roof can move residents from crisis to stability to long-term success.
At Co-op Cincy, the group saw what an inclusive ownership model looks like on the ground. The team shared how they’re growing worker-owned businesses and supporting existing companies to transition into cooperative ownership—demonstrating how economic resilience can come from within the community itself.
A combined tour with 3CDC and The Port highlighted how strategic real estate development, when paired with equity-focused financing tools, can transform neighborhoods while keeping residents and small businesses at the center. The walking tour through Over-the-Rhine offered a living example of how thoughtful redevelopment can restore both buildings and belonging.
Reflection and Connection
Throughout the convening, structured reflection sessions invited delegates to process insights and surface ideas to bring back home. The simple “I Like, I Wish, I Wonder” framework encouraged candid conversation—about what resonated, what could be adapted, and what new collaborations might emerge.
Evenings over shared meals and impromptu discussions reminded everyone that relationships are at the heart of this work. By the end of the week, delegates departed Cincinnati not just with new knowledge, but with a renewed sense of what’s possible when cities commit to growth that includes everyone.
