What is Forward Cities?
Forward Cities operates as a national nonprofit dedicated to the architecture of equitable entrepreneurial ecosystems. By integrating community-based guidance with data-driven strategy, the organization empowers regions to cultivate environments where diverse business owners can thrive. Their flagship initiatives, such as the E3 Durham program, serve as a blueprint for how localized, advisor-led support can effectively bridge the gap between aspiring entrepreneurs and the resources necessary for long-term viability. Through strategic collaborations, the firm acts as a catalyst for systemic change, ensuring that the benefits of innovation are distributed more broadly across the economic landscape.
How much funding has Forward Cities raised?
Forward Cities has raised a total of $496K across 2 funding rounds:
Debt
$150K
Debt
$346K
Debt (2020): $150K with participation from PPP
Debt (2021): $346K led by PPP
Key Investors in Forward Cities
PPP
Public-Private Partnership
What's next for Forward Cities?
With the recent influx of capital, Forward Cities is expected to transition into a phase of aggressive expansion and program optimization. The organization will likely focus on deepening its impact in existing markets while exploring new regional partnerships that align with its mission of economic equity. Future strategic efforts will likely involve the enhancement of their digital advisory platforms and the scaling of their community-advisor networks to reach a wider demographic of entrepreneurs. As the organization matures, its ability to demonstrate measurable, long-term economic outcomes will be critical in attracting further philanthropic and institutional backing, ultimately cementing its role as a cornerstone of the national entrepreneurial support infrastructure.
See full Forward Cities company page