Accelerator for America: Comprehensive Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Accelerator for America (AFA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan "Do tank" established in 2017 by former Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti. The organization is dedicated to delivering solutions, connections, and resources to mayors and other local leaders, aiming to enhance economic mobility in underserved communities across the United States.

Mission and Vision

AFA's mission is to provide strategic support for local initiatives that strengthen economic security, connect individuals with job opportunities, and foster infrastructure development. The organization envisions creating national change from the ground up by empowering local leaders to implement impactful solutions.

Primary Area of Focus

AFA concentrates on three key areas:

• Economic & Community Development: Enhancing housing affordability, supporting small businesses, expanding access to capital, and building career pathways.

• Transit & Infrastructure: Generating local infrastructure funding and leveraging federal investments to create economic opportunities.

• Workforce Development: Addressing workforce challenges and creating pathways for high-quality jobs that offer family-sustaining wages and benefits.

Industry Significance

Since its inception, AFA has supported over 200 localities, helping them generate more than $40 billion in infrastructure funding independent of federal investments. The organization has been instrumental in assisting cities to access federal funds, including the American Rescue Plan, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Bipartisan Infrastructure Law), the Inflation Reduction Act, and the CHIPS and Science Act.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Empowering Local Leaders: Providing resources and technical assistance to mayors and local officials to implement effective economic development strategies.

• Leveraging Federal Investments: Assisting communities in accessing and utilizing federal funds to support infrastructure and economic development projects.

• Promoting Inclusive Growth: Ensuring that economic opportunities are accessible to all community members, particularly those in underserved areas.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Public-Private Partnerships (P3): Facilitating collaborations between government entities and private sector partners to fund and implement infrastructure projects.

• Community Wealth Building: Developing strategies that enable communities to retain and grow wealth locally, fostering long-term economic stability.

Key Technologies Utilized

AFA employs data analytics and strategic planning tools to assess community needs, identify funding opportunities, and measure the impact of initiatives. These technologies support evidence-based decision-making and the effective allocation of resources.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

AFA focuses on urban and suburban communities across the United States, particularly those facing economic challenges and infrastructure deficits. The organization tailors its strategies to address the unique needs of each community, promoting sustainable and inclusive development.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

AFA operates as a nonprofit organization, primarily funded through grants and contributions from foundations and other nonprofits. In 2023, the organization reported total revenues of $1,044,023 and total expenses of $2,028,499. The discrepancy between revenues and expenses indicates that AFA utilizes reserves or other funding sources to support its operations.

Total Funds Raised

While specific figures for total funds raised are not publicly disclosed, AFA has secured significant funding from various sources, including the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, Results for America, and the Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation.

Notable Investors

• Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation: Provided a grant to support economic and workforce development efforts in the Kansas City metro area.

• Results for America: Funded the development of content for the Local Infrastructure Hub to improve outcomes for residents in economic mobility and climate progress.

• Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation: Offered general operating support to AFA.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds raised are utilized to support AFA's initiatives, including providing technical assistance to local leaders, developing economic development tools, and facilitating public-private partnerships. The organization focuses on capacity building, strategic guidance, and technical assistance to empower communities in implementing effective economic development strategies.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

AFA's pipeline includes various infrastructure and economic development projects across multiple cities. For instance, in 2024, AFA supported Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and Maricopa County leaders on two ballot measures for transit and transportation investments, totaling $35 billion in anticipated new revenue for transit and transportation infrastructure.

Stages of Development

AFA engages in all stages of project development, from initial planning and strategy formulation to implementation and evaluation. The organization provides ongoing support to ensure the successful execution of projects and the achievement of desired outcomes.

Target Conditions

The primary focus is on urban and suburban communities facing economic challenges and infrastructure deficits. AFA tailors its strategies to address the unique needs of each community, promoting sustainable and inclusive development.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Timelines vary depending on the specific project and community context. AFA works closely with local leaders to establish realistic timelines and ensure that milestones are met in a timely manner.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

AFA utilizes data analytics and strategic planning tools to assess community needs, identify funding opportunities, and measure the impact of initiatives. These technologies support evidence-based decision-making and the effective allocation of resources.

Significant Scientific Methods

The organization employs data-driven approaches, including economic modeling and impact assessments, to inform its strategies and ensure that initiatives lead to tangible improvements in economic mobility and infrastructure development.

AI-Driven Capabilities

While specific AI-driven capabilities are not detailed, AFA's use of data analytics suggests the incorporation of advanced technologies to enhance decision-making processes and project outcomes.

Leadership Team

Key Executive Profiles

• Mary Ellen Wiederwohl: President and CEO of AFA. She has extensive experience in economic development and has been instrumental in leading AFA's initiatives.

• Kate Gallego: Co-Chair and Mayor of Phoenix, Arizona. She has been actively involved in AFA's efforts to secure infrastructure funding for Phoenix.

• Quinton Lucas: Co-Chair and Mayor of Kansas City, Missouri. He has played a significant role in AFA's initiatives aimed at enhancing economic mobility in Kansas City.

Leadership Changes

Specific details regarding recent leadership changes are not publicly available.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for nonprofit organizations focused on economic development and infrastructure is competitive, with several entities offering similar services. However, AFA's unique approach, combining technical assistance with advocacy and capacity building, differentiates it in the sector.

Competitor Analysis

• United for Infrastructure: A project of AFA Action, focusing on advancing local, state, and federal investment in transit and infrastructure.

• Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC): A nonprofit organization that supports community development initiatives across the U.S.

• Enterprise Community Partners: Focuses on affordable housing and community development.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

AFA collaborates with various stakeholders, including mayors, local government officials, private sector partners, and philanthropic organizations, to implement its initiatives. These partnerships enhance the organization's capacity to deliver impactful solutions.

Operational Insights

AFA's operational model emphasizes adaptability and responsiveness to the evolving policy landscape, enabling it to effectively support communities in accessing and utilizing federal investments.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

AFA's strategic plan for 2025-2028 focuses on expanding its impact by increasing the number of communities served, enhancing the effectiveness of its initiatives, and strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders.

Future Business Directions

The organization aims to deepen its engagement with local leaders, broaden its network of partners, and leverage emerging technologies to improve the delivery of its services.

Opportunities for Expansion

AFA seeks to replicate successful models in new communities, particularly those facing significant economic challenges, to promote sustainable and inclusive development nationwide.