Knight Foundation Invests Over $6 million in East San José with Historic Grant for La Placita at Mexican Heritage Plaza

La Placita, led by the School of Arts and Culture, will serve as a cultural, civic and economic anchor for East San José

SAN JOSÉ (September 25, 2025) – The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation announced today a historic investment of over $6 million to support La Placita, a transformative community development project in East San José. This marks Knight’s largest investment on the West Coast to date and underscores the foundation’s commitment to strengthening cultural identity, civic participation and economic opportunity in historically underinvested neighborhoods.

Located across the street from the Mexican Heritage Plaza, La Placita will revitalize a long-vacant 28,000-square-foot commercial property into a dynamic hub that meets critical community needs — including access to health care, food security, small business opportunities and cultural programming. Building on the legacy of César Chávez and East San José’s Mexican American heritage, La Placita will serve as the foundation for the city’s first designated cultural district.

“This is a transformational moment for East San José,” said Allan Madoc, Knight Foundation’s program director in San José. “La Placita is more than just a place — it is a platform for cultural expression, local economic growth and civic participation. Knight is proud to support this project and SOAC’s transition to a CEO-led model, which ensures the organization has the leadership structure needed to steward projects of this scale.”

Knight’s support comes at a pivotal time, as city and state leaders call for deeper investment in East San José through initiatives like the proposed East Side Revitalization Fund. The foundation’s commitment reflects a broader effort to correct historic inequities and build lasting cultural and economic power in communities too often overlooked.

Construction on La Placita is expected to begin this fall, with completion slated for the end of 2026. Once operational, the project is estimated to generate more than $150 million in local economic activity, supporting job creation, small business growth and increased cultural tourism in East San José.

Rendering of *La Placita*. Construction will begin this fall.

“Knight’s investment is a powerful affirmation of a vision our community has been building toward for years,” said Jessica Paz-Cedillos, CEO of the School of Arts and Culture at Mexican Heritage Plaza. “La Placita will honor our culture, support our families and create opportunities for generations to come. With Knight’s partnership and SOAC’s new leadership structure, we are stepping into a chapter that positions us as both a cultural anchor and trusted community developer in East San José.”

Support for La Placita also comes from Gardner Health Services, Santa Clara County, the City of San José, and philanthropic partners including The Sobrato Organization, the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation and the David & Lucile Packard Foundation.

About the School of Arts and Culture at MHP

The School of Arts and Culture at the Mexican Heritage Plaza (SOAC) is a cultural and community anchor in East San José. SOAC catalyzes creativity and culture as powerful forces for community resilience and transformation. Through programs, partnerships, and place-based initiatives, SOAC advances equity, strengthens families, and builds vibrant public spaces. Learn more at schoolofartsandculture.org.

About Knight Foundation

We are social investors who support a more effective democracy by funding free expression and journalism, arts and culture in community, research in areas like artificial intelligence, and the success of American cities and towns where the Knight brothers once published newspapers. Learn more at kf.org.

Celebration Marks $215 Million-Plus Investment Over 25 Years to Support a Resurgent Motor City

DETROIT, Mich (Sept. 8, 2025) — The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation announced $19.8 million in new investments to advance Detroit’s arts and tech economy, civic infrastructure and public spaces across the city at a community celebration on Sunday at Michigan Central. This new commitment builds on decades of partnership to support the city’s revitalization and expands Knight’s investments from downtown into the inner-ring neighborhoods. Over the last 25 years, Knight Foundation has made more than 750 grants to the people and organizations making a difference in Detroit. That’s more than $215 million, including over $80 million in just the last decade.

“Detroit has always been a city of resilience and reinvention,” said Maribel Pérez Wadsworth, president and CEO of Knight Foundation. “Our latest investments support a Detroit that will continue to be shaped by the creativity, talent and vision of its residents. Whether it’s transforming public spaces along the Joe Louis Greenway, expanding local residents’ economic power in tech or strengthening the city’s creative economy, these efforts reflect the energy of a city on its triumphant rise.”

The new investments announced last night strengthen Detroit by investing in physical assets, advancing industries poised for growth and driving cultural vibrancy. They include:

Unified Greenway Project ($5 million)

A transformational investment in Detroit’s future, the Unified Greenway Project is building nearly 30 miles of connected trails and public spaces that link the Joe Louis Greenway, the Detroit Riverfront and 23 neighborhoods. With $2.5 million through the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan to grow an endowment supporting operations, programming and maintenance, and $2.5 million to the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy to advance construction and activation, Knight’s support ensures this shared civic asset is sustainable for generations. More than a pathway, the Unified Greenway is designed to knit communities together, expand access to nature and create inclusive spaces where Detroiters can gather and thrive.

Black Tech Saturdays ($2 million)

Founded by Detroit natives Johnnie and Alexa Turnage, Black Tech Saturdays is building a self-sustaining tech economy rooted in equity and community. With more than 20,000 unique visitors from across the United States and $4 million in early funding to date, Black Tech Saturdays will use Knight’s support to scale digital infrastructure, organize convenings and expand its storytelling. This investment also will help unlock $10 million in earned income opportunities for Detroiters through pathways to high-growth tech jobs and entrepreneurship—positioning Detroit as a national model for equitable tech ecosystems.

Joe Louis Greenway Partnership ($2 million)

Building on Knight’s investment in the Unified Greenway Project, Knight is supporting the Joe Louis Greenway to activate a key trailhead on Woodward Avenue. This investment will connect Highland Park residents to the 27.5-mile greenway, while creating an accessible and vibrant entry point with cultural programming and public space amenities.

Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit ($2 million)

Knight’s investment will help activate the Knight Foundation Community Commons, a flexible, indoor/outdoor community space at Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit and will fund key infrastructure upgrades to expand the museum’s year-round programming and community access.

Vanguard Community Development Corporation ($2 million)

Knight’s follow-on investment from previous years will help complete the North End Community Campus, a civic and cultural anchor featuring public art, artist studios, performance areas and workshops. The campus will serve more than 10,000 residents each year and lay the groundwork for future affordable housing for creatives.

Eastside Community Network – Mother Tree Wellness Campus ($1.5 million)

Knight’s investment will help complete a nine-acre environmental and health-focused public space featuring rain gardens, edible landscapes, fitness stations and solar-powered gathering areas and support programming focused on wellness, job training and environmental resilience.

Detroit Horse Power ($1 million)

To help realize the nation’s largest urban equestrian center and support youth development, Knight Foundation is supporting the transformation of a 14-acre equestrian site in the Hope Village neighborhood. This unique community space will focus on youth programming and public gatherings, offering riding arenas, classrooms and all-purpose community space, all designed with local input.

Give Merit – Merit Park ($1 million)

Located along the Joe Louis Greenway, this project by Give Merit will transform long-vacant land on Grand River Avenue into a youth community hub with sports fields, outdoor classrooms, retail incubators and civic spaces. Knight’s investment will support the construction of public amenities and small business activation within Merit Park Plaza.

Design Core Detroit / College for Creative Studies ($1 million)

Knight’s investment in Design Core Detroit, an economic development organization within the College for Creative Studies, will help strengthen Detroit’s economy by supporting local creative businesses with training, funding, and connections, while also positioning Detroit as a leading global design center.

Black Leaders Detroit ($1 million)

This investment capitalizes a no-interest loan fund for developers and entrepreneurs excluded from traditional financing, supporting community-centered projects that restore vacant homes, reduce blight and build community wealth in Detroit. The fund will support 30+ residential projects and create 150+ jobs across Detroit neighborhoods.

Downtown Detroit Partnership ($800,000)

Knight’s support for the Downtown Detroit Partnership, led by Eric Larson, will enhance some of the city’s most iconic public spaces, including Campus Martius and Capitol Park. The investment will help ensure these parks are more welcoming, accessible, and reflective of the diverse communities that use them daily. By funding programming, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement efforts, the partnership will strengthen Detroit’s identity as a vibrant, inclusive urban center. These enhancements not only improve the quality of life for residents but also attract visitors, foster economic activity and build stronger social connections across the city’s core.

rootoftwo via CultureSource – The Transformer Building ($500,000)

Knight is helping convert a decommissioned electrical substation into a civic studio for participatory governance and design. The space will support civic tech labs, digital tools and workshops aimed at co-creating just and innovative public solutions.

Wadsworth announced the investments alongside Knight Foundation trustees, community partners and grantees. The evening included a photography showcase featuring local grantees and a performance by Detroit poet jessica Care moore and a Motown-inspired musical tribute.

“These investments reflect a model of place-based philanthropy that’s driven by people,” said LaTrice McClendon, Knight Foundation’s Detroit Program Director. “We believe in Detroit’s future because we believe in the people leading its transformation.”

Knight Foundation’s work in Detroit dates to 1940, when Knight Newspapers acquired and supported ambitious local journalism at the Detroit Free Press. Today, Knight’s investments span civic infrastructure, arts, technology and entrepreneurship — all designed to build a more inclusive and dynamic city.

About Knight Foundation

We are social investors who support a more effective democracy by funding free expression and journalism, arts and culture in community, research in areas of media and democracy, and the success of American cities and towns where the Knight brothers once published newspapers.

Photo credit: Monica Morgan

8 80 Cities announces the launch of a new round of applications for the 2025 Knight Emerging City Champions Fellowship program to support young civic innovators with bold ideas to transform their communities

TORONTO – 8 80 Cities is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2025-26 Knight Emerging City Champions (KECC) fellowship and micro-grant program, funded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. The program invites young civic innovators, ages 18-35, who are passionate about driving transformative change in Knight Foundation’s eight resident communities to apply. This is a unique opportunity to receive funding and build leadership skills while contributing to meaningful, creative solutions for local challenges.

“As we open applications for the next KECC cohort, Knight Foundation is eager to support a new group of rising civic leaders ready to turn their creative ideas into action—and join a growing network of community leaders transforming Knight cities from the ground up.” Kelly Jin, Chief of Staff to the President & CEO and Vice President of Communities, Knight Foundation

The program seeks creative young leaders with bold ideas that strengthen trust and community connection, foster creative expression and build local resilience. The KECC program is now accepting applications for 20 new leaders for the 2025-2026 program.

Twenty successful applicants will receive $5,000 in seed funding and a $500 tech grant to help implement their project idea, ongoing virtual training, technical support from 8 80 Cities and access to a national network of creative urbanists. The program will run from August 2025 to August 2026.

The KECC program was created to support and better equip emerging leaders with the resources and training to turn their ideas into action. This will be the eighth cohort of KECC. Since its inception in 2015, the program has helped catalyze more than 130 public space and civic engagement projects in communities across eight Knight cities. Projects have ranged from beehives and jukeboxes to mentorship programs and gamified co-design tools.

“Over the years, KECC has supported more than 130 young civic innovators who have transformed their communities in powerful ways. We are excited to see what kind of community-led solutions and ideas we will see this year. This cohort will join a growing network of champions, placemakers, grassroots leaders, and civic tech experts who can assist with project implementation.” Amanda O’Rourke, Executive Director, 8 80 Cities.

The program is accepting applications from residents aged 18-35 from the following cities: Akron, OH; Charlotte, NC; Detroit, MI; Macon, GA; Miami, FL; Philadelphia, PA; San Jose, CA; and St. Paul, MN.

“KECC was an absolutely incredible experience that brought my vision to life! What started as a rough idea became a clear, impactful reality thanks to the support, knowledge and guidance from 8 80 Cities and their amazing team. The connections I made with the other fellows were just as powerful—many of whom I still collaborate with today. Fast forward a few years, and On The Move Art Studio is thriving, bringing quality arts education to over 70,000 children. None of this would have been possible without KECC, and I’m forever grateful!” – Josh Nadzam, 2017 Alumni

The program will kick off in August 2025, with an in-person experience in Toronto. The studio includes presentations, workshops and city tours that feature inspiring grassroots community advocates and city leaders.

KECC is powered by 8 80 Cities, a nonprofit organization with a mission to ignite action and challenge the status quo to create healthier, more equitable and sustainable cities for all people. To apply to the Knight Emerging City Champions fellowship, applicants must submit their ideas at www.emergingcitychampions.org by May 28, 2025, 11:59 pm EDT (8:59 pm PST).

ST. PAUL – The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation announced the appointment of Charlene Bradley as Director in St. Paul. A seasoned corporate executive with over 20 years of experience in organizational development, change management and operational strategy, Bradley brings a deep expertise in driving sustainable business growth. Since 2000, Knight Foundation has invested more than $50 million in St. Paul, focusing on downtown revitalization and supporting local entrepreneurship.

A St. Paul native, Bradley previously held senior leadership roles at Target Corporation, where she spearheaded initiatives to strengthen community connections and support local development. During her tenure at Thomson Reuters, she led technology-driven efforts to optimize business operations, driving efficiency and enhancing internal collaboration. Her dedication to service and commitment to building meaningful partnerships have been evident throughout her career, and her customer-focused approach to investment will shape Knight’s work in St. Paul.

“Charlene brings a rare blend of strategic vision, operational excellence and deep community understanding,” said Kelly Jin, Knight Foundation’s Chief of Staff and Vice President for Communities. “Her leadership reflects the kind of thoughtful, locally grounded approach we believe drives lasting change. I’m thrilled to see what her partnership with the community will unlock.”

Recently in St. Paul, Knight Foundation has invested $1,000,000 in ReConnect Rondo, growing community engagement efforts and organizational capacity to revitalize the historic Rondo community. Knight Foundation has also supported the Greater River Passage Conservancy’s plan to activate and reconnect the Mississippi waterfront with downtown and the St. Paul Downtown Alliance to establish a downtown development corporation.

Reflecting on her new role at Knight Foundation, Bradley shared her excitement: “St. Paul is a city rich with history, culture and community spirit. I am eager to collaborate with local partners and residents to amplify the ideas and initiatives that make our community stronger and more connected.”

Bradley emphasized that her approach will focus on fostering meaningful partnerships and leveraging local insights to create sustainable impact. “I believe that listening to community voices and building on existing strengths are key to making a lasting difference. I’m committed to ensuring that our efforts reflect the aspirations of St. Paul’s residents,” she added.

About Knight Foundation

To support travel expenses for 2025 fellows at the Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy.