2026 - 2028 Strategic Plan
Community Builders Network of Metro St. Louis (CBN) brings together community development corporations (CDCs) and nonprofit organizations working to strengthen neighborhoods throughout the St. Louis region. As the needs of communities evolve, so does the need for a stronger, more connected network of organizations equipped with the resources, relationships, and support to make lasting change. This strategic plan reflects CBN’s commitment to building that foundation and advancing the collective impact of community development across the region.
Our 2026–2028 Strategic Plan establishes a shared direction for CBN’s work, identifying the areas where focused investment, collaboration, and leadership can make the greatest difference. Through these priorities, CBN will continue to strengthen its network, support organizational growth, elevate community development voices, and create opportunities for meaningful partnerships and policy change.
2026 - 2028 STRATEGIC PLAN
CBN is striving to be more specific about how the work is done and who it serves in the St. Louis region. By aligning standards, partnerships, and advocacy, CDCs will gain the clarity and capacity to thrive thereby collectively strengthening the St. Louis community development ecosystem and driving equitable transformation. CBN’s three-year strategic plan will cover 4 key priority areas:
1) Advocating for Community Development Resources & Policy Change:
CBN will advance a unified, data-driven policy and funding agenda that aims to secure flexible, sustainable resources for CDCs by aligning member priorities, influencing public systems, and cultivating new investment partners.
2) Defining CDC Standards & Building CDC Capacity:
CBN will strengthen CDCs' long-term effectiveness by establishing clear organizational standards, assessing and benchmarking member capacity, and delivering targeted training and support.
3) Supporting Equitable Collaborations & Strengthening Strategic Partnerships:
CBN will foster a more coordinated and resilient community development ecosystem by identifying opportunities for collaboration, guiding equitable partnerships, and connecting CDCs with aligned technical assistance providers and funders.
4) Amplifying Member Impact Through Storytelling & Strategic Communications:
CBN will elevate the visibility, credibility, and collective impact of CDCs through shared storytelling, transparent impact reporting, public education campaigns, and annual convenings that position members as essential stewards of neighborhood stability.
Together, these priorities shape a clear and actionable path forward for CBN. Click here to dive deeper into the full strategic plan.
