Sam and Helen Walton believed people can accomplish anything when they have opportunity and encouragement. From the arts to education and beyond, this bedrock belief shaped their wide-ranging philanthropy in the Northwest Arkansas region they called home. Looking ahead to 2025, the Walton Family Foundation envisions Northwest Arkansas as one of the most vibrant and inclusive communities in the nation. By supporting the vision and work of a diverse array of local grantees, we will put our resources behind community-led efforts that:

• Advance Economic & Cultural Vibrancy

From a diverse and innovative regional economy, where small businesses and startups can flourish, to world-class cultural opportunities, Northwest Arkansas can continue to build on its strong reputation as a thriving, nationally recognized region. Our work will expand efforts to ensure the region’s abundant opportunities are accessible to all — and solutions rise both from individual communities and collective work across the region.

Photo Credit: Kerri McMahon

• Foster Inclusive Growth & A Sense of Belonging

Inclusive growth means everyone who calls Northwest Arkansas home benefits from our region’s successes and is welcome to fully participate in all the area has to offer. We intend to work closely with education nonprofits, school districts and other community partners to ensure that every student in Northwest Arkansas is prepared for college and high-quality jobs and that residents can upskill or reskill to enter high potential fields. Our work with grantees focused on housing and transportation affordability will ensure residents can easily access the region’s employment centers, services and amenities. This work will require partnerships with a broad spectrum of community organizations to drive an intentional and sustained effort that builds meaningful connections across the region’s diverse communities, inspiring a genuine and shared sense of belonging.

• Support Community Leadership & Capacity-Building

Engaging and elevating the voices of a diverse array of local leaders who share a deep commitment to their community can help ensure the long-term vitality and vibrancy of Northwest Arkansas. We will support training, networking and organizations working most closely with the community to help develop a diverse pipeline of next-generation leaders.