GCF unveils bold vision, unprecedented investments

The future isn’t something to wait for – it’s something we build together. That’s why Greater Cincinnati Foundation (GCF), alongside donors, is committing to an unprecedented investment of $1 billion in the region over the next decade, fueling an audacious vision and future where every individual has a fair opportunity to thrive.

This isn’t just another strategy – it’s a movement. GCF is harnessing the power of philanthropy, collaboration and accountability to create deep, sustainable impact on this special place we all call home.

A vision rooted in community

Great change is never created in isolation. Our strategy was built from the ground up, incorporating the voices of more than 160 nonprofit leaders, 200 individual community members, 50 staff and board members and dozens of civic and business leaders. Through listening sessions, interviews, surveys and meetings, we gathered diverse perspectives and insights to shape a path forward that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of our region.

Now, we’re ready to turn vision into action. Here’s how we plan to drive transformative change:

Unprecedented investments in community impact

To create measurable and lasting impact, GCF is making a historic $150 million investment in three critical areas:

• Education: Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. Our focus on third-grade reading proficiency – a key predictor of lifelong success – will help set young learners on the right path. We’re also committed to expanding readiness efforts for college, trade school, quality jobs and military service, ensuring that all kids have access to a bright future.
• Housing affordability: A thriving community starts with housing stability. We’re tackling the urgent need for income-aligned housing, creating and preserving homes that people can afford. Nurses, firefighters, teachers and families should be able to live in the communities they serve – without fear of being priced out.
• Community and cultural vibrancy: A dynamic region is one where people want to stay, grow and invest in their futures. That means more than just housing and education – it requires a thriving arts scene, beautiful parks and accessible health care that supports a vibrant, connected and resilient community.

Commitment to accountability

Our bold goals come with a promise: measurable progress. Over the next three years, GCF will work alongside key partners to develop a community report card, tracking our efforts and the region’s growth in real, tangible ways.

Powered by people

At the heart of this mission is the strength of our relationships. Social capital is the most valuable currency a community foundation can have, and we’re doubling down on deepening existing partnerships while forging meaningful new ones. Whether through donors, businesses, nonprofit leaders, community members or our governing board, we’re building a network of changemakers ready to shape the future together. We will also invest in ensuring that we have the staff, aligning strengths to roles and adding strategic new positions to activate our vision.

Join us in building a brighter future

Greater Cincinnati is a place of limitless potential, and now is the time to unlock it. At GCF, we believe in a future where everyone belongs, where everyone has a voice, and where opportunities are abundant for all. This is our moment to be bold, to dream big, and to take action.

Together, let’s shape a Greater Cincinnati that isn’t just growing – it’s thriving. The future starts now.