Learn, Explore, Activate, in Place (LEAP)

SMC Hub Program

Learn, Explore, Activate in Place (LEAP) is a transformative sub-initiative of NGIN’s Small and Midsized Cities (SMC) Hub, designed to bring together delegations of community and economic leaders from SMCs to explore and implement innovative models for inclusive economic growth in exemplary cities. Through LEAP, we provide a unique platform for practitioners to gather, learn, and activate strategies that promote equitable development in their communities.

Why LEAP with us?

Learn

Gain insights into best practices for fostering inclusive growth centered on equity. Our sessions are designed to equip you with the knowledge needed to drive meaningful change in your city.

Explore

Discover innovative models for economic development through immersive experiences in host cities and engage with local leaders and stakeholders to understand their strategies and successes.

Activate

Develop an actionable plan to implement these strategies in your own city. LEAP encourages collaboration and peer learning, ensuring you leave equipped to make a tangible impact.

in Place

Engage directly with the communities where these strategies are being implemented. By immersing yourself, you gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities of the city, allowing for more context-driven action when you return to your own community.

While applications for LEAP are currently closed, we're excited to share that NGIN will host two more sessions in 2025. Stay ahead of the curve and be the first to know when applications open by signing up.

Program Highlights

TACOMA, WASHINGTON
September 2023

In Tacoma, Washington, LEAP brought together delegations from across the nation to explore inclusive economic growth. Highlights included:

  • Recognition Ceremony: Tacoma's Mayor, Victoria Woodards, received an award for the city's exceptional work in promoting equity. Her presentation on equitable growth strategies inspired delegates from Savannah, Georgia; York, Pennsylvania; Carson, California; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and Roanoke, Virginia.

  • Guided Exploration: A walking tour of Downtown Tacoma, coupled with panels on 'Supporting Small Businesses with a Focus on Equity and Community Wealth Creation' and 'Building and Sustaining Partnerships.'

  • Community Engagement: Collaboration with organizations like The Black Collective, Spaceworks Tacoma, Saathi Impact Consulting, and others made the weekend a resounding success.

Experience the event through our Instagram Programs Highlight ↗.

In Richmond, VA, the LEAP initiative continued its mission to inspire inclusive growth with key moments including:

  • Networking Mixer: The event began with connections and an award for the City of Richmond's commitment to inclusive economic development.

  • Insightful Discussions: Led by NGIN CEO M. Yasmina McCarty and featuring panels on equity and community wealth creation.

  • Historical Exploration: Gary Flowers guided us through Jackson Ward, and Neil McInroy facilitated a panel on Community Wealth Building at Richmond Hill.

Revisit the moments and discover the beauty of Richmond in our Instagram Reel ↗.

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA
October 2023

“It was great to meet with individuals across the country to discuss common challenges, share best practices and resources, locally and nationally, and strengthen relationships that will ultimately impact the communities we are all committed to serving.”


— Sully Pinos, LEAP Tacoma Participant

Join the next LEAP

Stay informed about future LEAP events by following on instagram or sign up to be the first to know when applications open.

Supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

Through generous funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, NGIN undertook a practitioner-led exploration to identify what is holding back investments that advance inclusive growth in small and midsize cities and recommend approaches to overcome these capital barriers.