About Pathway Community Foundation
Empowering communities through innovation, education, and collaborative partnerships to create sustainable urban development.
Our Mission
To unite aspiring students, dedicated educators, and forward-thinking city officials in shaping the cities of tomorrow through innovative smart city solutions that address real-world challenges.
Our Vision
A future where diversity, creativity, and collaboration address complex urban challenges, creating sustainable and equitable communities empowered by cutting-edge technology and inclusive innovation.
OUR STORY
The journey of Pathway Community Foundation
Founding the Vision
Born from post-pandemic conversations, Pathway Community Foundation was created to reimagine economic growth in Tier 2–Tier 4 cities. From the start, HBCUs were centered as engines of innovation, talent, and community revitalization, anchoring a new model for sustainable impact.
Launching the First Cohort
Pathway brought its vision to life with the inaugural HBCU Fellowship cohort. Twenty-two fellows from 10 universities and five cities, Raleigh, Tuskegee, Tuscaloosa, Columbia, and Greenbelt—came together to prove that talent, place, and opportunity thrive when intentionally connected.
Deepening the North Carolina Focus
The second cohort doubled down on North Carolina, partnering exclusively with HBCUs across the state. Fellows from Winston-Salem State, NC A&T, Elizabeth City State University, and Johnson C. Smith engaged directly with cities like Winston-Salem, Rocky Mount, and Morrisville to drive place-based solutions.
Expanding Talent, Anchoring Place
With a national pool of fellows and a continued focus on North Carolina cities, the third cohort strengthened Pathway’s model. Fellows worked across Winston-Salem, Charlotte, and Rocky Mount—bringing diverse perspectives while staying rooted in local community needs.
Scaling Across Cities and Counties
The fourth cohort marks a new chapter of growth. Pathway expanded its footprint to Charlotte and partnered with its first county, Henry County, Georgia, while welcoming fellows from HBCUs across the country. This year represents the evolution from pilot to scalable ecosystem.
OUR CORE VALUES
Our latest report highlights fellows' work across transportation, digital equity, and sustainability — with measurable outcomes across multiple states.
Innovation
We embrace creative thinking and cutting-edge technology to solve complex urban challenges.
Collaboration
We believe in the power of partnerships and collective action to drive meaningful change.
Education
We are committed to empowering students with knowledge and skills for future success.
Equity
We strive to create inclusive solutions that address disparities and promote fairness.
OUR PARTNERS
