The excerpt below was originally published by Knight Foundation:
Knight Foundation Announces $17 Million in New Investment to Fuel Economic and Cultural Vitality in Charlotte
Celebrating More Than $100 Million in Funding to Support the Queen City’s Growth
CHARLOTTE, NC—The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation announced nearly $17 million in new investments to bolster Charlotte’s continued development at a community celebration held last night at the Mint Museum. This latest commitment brings Knight Foundation’s total investment in Charlotte to more than $100 million over the past 20 years, underscoring its enduring support for the city’s vibrant future.
“More than 100 new residents are moving to the Charlotte area every day, and our latest investments reaffirm our commitment to building a welcoming and inclusive Charlotte for all — from lifelong residents to newcomers,” said Maribel Pérez Wadsworth, president and CEO of Knight Foundation. “We’re proud to support and accelerate transformative projects like the Charlotte Ballet’s new dance facility, a resident-led food cooperative in the Historic West End, and the launch of Press Forward Charlotte to strengthen local news.”
These investments come on top of a $5 million grant to the Charlotte Symphony announced last spring. The new funding announced last night includes:
LISC Charlotte ($8.75 Million): Responding to long-expressed community needs, Knight is investing in the launch of a cooperative grocery store, led by Historic West End Partners, and owned and managed by residents, providing access to fresh, healthy groceries in the Historic West End. Additionally, Knight’s funding will drive economic development by offering flexible capital solutions to local small business owners, empowering them to thrive and contribute to the neighborhood’s revitalization.