Northwest Arkansas
The Walton Family Foundation is rooted in Northwest Arkansas. We are committed to making opportunity available to everyone who lives here. That means amplifying the voices of our emerging leaders. It means supporting entrepreneurs and innovators who strengthen the local economy. We are engaging teachers, parents and students to improve schools. And we're working to ensure residents in every neighborhood can access affordable housing, diverse transportation options and vibrant cultural spaces.
We want our work to reflect the voices and needs of all communities. Everyone deserves to be at the decision-making table. To do that, we're prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the work we do. In the voices we listen to. And the grants we make.
The foundation is in a unique position to bring together community leaders that make Northwest Arkansas better for everyone. We are building new partnerships. We're learning from all community members with innovative ideas. By doing that, we can help unlock opportunity for every resident.
Inclusive growth means everyone who calls Northwest Arkansas home benefits from our region’s successes. It means they feel welcome to fully participate in all the area has to offer. We work with education nonprofits, school districts and community partners to ensure every student is prepared for college and high-quality jobs. We support efforts that help residents upskill or reskill.
Our work on housing and affordable transportation will help residents easily access employment centers, services and amenities. This requires a sustained effort to build meaningful connections across the region’s diverse communities. Together, we can inspire a genuine and shared sense of belonging.
Learn more about our Inclusive Growth & Sense of Belonging initiative.
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.
Learn more about our Economic & Cultural Vibrancy initiative.
We believe in engaging and elevating the voices of a diverse array of local leaders with a deep commitment to their community. This helps ensure the long-term vitality and vibrancy of Northwest Arkansas. We support training, networking and organizations that work closely with the community to develop a diverse pipeline of next-generation leaders.
Learn more about our Community Leadership & Capacity Building initiative.
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February 3, 2022In Northwest Arkansas, Right to Start amplifies the voices of underserved entrepreneurs and helps remove barriers to their success
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August 3, 2022The Urban Land Institute is building a “community of practice” among regional city planners
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April 30, 2024From trails to interconnected public transit, Northwest Arkansas’ transportation needs are evolving
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December 29, 2023Home Region Program Director Robert Burns sits in conversation with a local leader helping underserved entrepreneurs grow great ideas
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September 27, 2023The H.I.R.E.D. program pairs students with career coaches to identify their passions and skills – then opens opportunities for them to pursue their goals