Application Deadline: July 25th
Coalitions can now apply to SCALE their community wealth-building or commercial real estate development project with targeted support, expert guidance, and funding.
What is SCALE?
New Growth Innovation Network’s Strategic Capacity for Advancing Local Economies (SCALE) program supports coalitions from Small and Midsized Cities (population 50,000–500,000) through two specialized technical assistance tracks designed to meet your city’s exact needs: Community Wealth Building and Commercial Real Estate Development.
Selected coalitions will receive a fully funded learning trip, one-on-one coaching, peer exchange opportunities—plus track-specific support. (See our full offering diagram below.)
Funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this program is part of NGIN's Small and Midsized Cities Hub—an initiative that offers a suite of programs, technical assistance, resources, and tools to support economic developers build healthy, thriving communities.
Application deadline: July 25, 2025.
Choose a Path
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Community Wealth Building
Supports community-led projects that build local wealth and long-term economic sustainability.
Best for: Community-based coalitions -
Commercial Real Estate Development
Supports commercial and mixed-use development projects.
Best for: Anchor-led coalitions
What you’ll receive
| Offering | Community Wealth Building | Commercial Real Estate Development |
|---|---|---|
| Expert consultation for action planning, coalition building, and implementation | ✅ | ✅ |
| Fully funded immersive learning trip to another SMC | ✅ | ✅ |
| Virtual convenings and peer exchange opportunities | ✅ | ✅ |
| $5,000 towards community engagement activities | ✅ |
✅ |
| Up to $15,000 in customized technical assistance by provided consultants | ✅ (focused on community wealth) |
✅ (focused on real estate) |
| Up to $15,000 in direct project funding | ✅ | ❌ |
| Predevelopment planning, site control, and ownership modeling | ❌ | ✅ |
| Investment readiness and capital access support | ❌ | ✅ |
How to apply
Applying to SCALE is a collaborative effort. Coalitions must choose a track, confirm eligibility, assemble cross-sector partners, and complete a single streamlined application. Finalists will be invited to a virtual interview with NGIN before selections are finalized.
Choose your path
Decide between Community Wealth Building or Commercial Real Estate Development
1
Check your eligibility
Make sure your coalition meets the basic requirements by reading the track-specific eligibility requirements.
2
Build your coalition
Form a coalition of cross sector partners. Please check the track-specific eligibility requirements for partner information. Letters of commitment are required for partners. Download a customizable template under “Helpful Resources” here.
3
Watch the Info Session
Missed the info session? No problem! Watch the info session tailored to your track here.
4
Complete the Application
Submit one unified application on behalf of your coalition. Please note: Each track has it’s own application. Please complete the appropriate application.
5
Finalists Interview with NGIN
Finalists will be invited for a short virtual conversation.
6
Key Dates
Make sure to mark your calendar for these important dates and milestones!
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| First Look Info Session | May 21 - Register Here |
| Applications Open | June 18 |
| Info Sessions by Track | June 25th and 26th - Register Here |
| Application Deadline | July 25 |
| Interview Period | August 4–15 |
| Notifications | August 22 |
| Kickoff | September 2025 |
FAQ
Got questions? Check out these Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about eligibility, support, and what to expect.
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Flexibility regarding population size may be considered on a case-by-case basis. If your project aligns with the program’s objectives, we encourage you to submit an application.
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Yes. The program is open to both early-stage and implementation-ready project teams. Coalitions will be evaluated based on readiness, potential, and alignment with the track goals.
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Yes. Coalitions may submit applications for both tracks if they meet the respective eligibility requirements. However, each coalition will only be selected for one track based on alignment, readiness, and program fit.
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Yes. Cities must assemble a coalition made up of 3 cross-sector partners, and complete a single streamlined application. A letter of commitment is required from each organization collaborating in the coalition. Download the letter template for your track in the Helpful Resources section below.
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Participants are expected to engage consistently throughout the 12-month program, including:
Monthly virtual learning modules
Peer exchange and Communities of Practice
Monthly Coaching and TA sessions
A kickoff trip in Fall 2025
Final reporting and media activities by Fall 2026
Funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation