City of Monroe chosen to participate in program to boost economic mobility

MONROE, La. (KNOE) - The City of Monroe was awarded more than $10,000 to build strategies to boost residents’ economic mobility.

Twenty cities were chosen to participate in the Southern Cities Economic Initiative, and Monroe was one of them, earning the city a $15,000 grant.

The SCEI is a program led by the National League of Cities in partnership with the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.

Cities chosen to participate will get tailored technical assistance, peer learning opportunities, access to data and experts from the Federal Reserve Bank.

“Local governments play a critical role in driving economic growth and expanding opportunities for all residents,” said Clarence E. Anthony, NLC CEO and Executive Director. “The South has significant potential to lead on economic resilience and serve as a model for the nation.”

Participating cities also have the chance to apply for more NLC grants of up to $60,000.

Cities chosen include:

Alabama

• Center Point

Arkansas

• Fayetteville
• Little Rock

Florida

• Jacksonville
• Lauderhill
• Pensacola

Georgia

• Atlanta
• Cnaton
• Jonesboro

Louisiana

• Monroe
• Natchitoches
• New Orleans

Mississippi

• Greenville
• Jackson
• Sunflower County

North Carolina

• Morrisville
• Thomasville

Tennessee

• Nashville

Virginia

• Charlottesville
• Harrisonburg

“We are honored to be selected for the Southern Cities Economic Initiative,” Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis said. “This grant and the support from the National League of Cities will empower Monroe to create meaningful opportunities for our residents. Together, we will build a stronger, more resilient economy that benefits everyone in our community.”

The program’s planning phase lasts through October 31, 2025. After that, cities will advance to the implementation phase, which will run through December 2027.