Intentional grant investments. Inclusive business practices. Equitable public policy.
Our Approach
We Rise Together takes a community centered approach to investing in neighborhoods, strengthening Black and Latinx businesses and increasing quality, resilient employment.
By working together, we will accomplish more for Chicago than if we worked independently.
Leveraging Grant Investments
Connecting corporate and philanthropic resources with community visions
Since September 2021, We Rise Together has awarded more than $34 million in target neighborhoods unlocking $328 million worth of real estate developments.
Grant making at this scale is possible through pooled contributions to the We Rise Together Fund. We identify and support projects and programs already vetted by communities so our grant making meets the urgency of the moment and aligns with community visions.
Inclusive Business Practices
Transforming systems and practices to drive equity.
- Working with businesses to advance inclusion in talent and procurement
- Measuring progress of private sector commitments and actions through 5/25 Move to Action
Learn more about 5/25 Move to Action.
Read the 5-25 Move to Action Stakeholder Report published in September 2022 to learn about the initiative’s goals. And learn about the actions they’ve taken in this 2023 progress report, which also highlights how Chicago companies can increase their commitment to change business practices and policies for a stronger, more inclusive regional economy.
Equitable Public Policy
Advancing public policy and practices that ensure the recovery does not leave Black and Latinx individuals and households behind.
- Addressing systems that create barriers to services and benefits to eligible households
- Advocating for public sector investment in structures that support availability of critical services such as broadband and affordable housing
We Rise Together is investing in real estate development, Black and Latinx-owned businesses, and workforce development to strengthen local economies for a stronger Chicago.
