Activating the People
Recover our edge.
The lesser-known story
Everyone knows the tale of the iconic American city that suffered unparalleled economic collapse in the 1980s, sending 300,000 mostly young people elsewhere seeking greener pastures. But, study it more closely, and you’ll learn we lost more than people — we lost an archetype. The pioneer. ✨
WHAT IS A PIONEER?
We believe our future, like our past, will be powered by pioneers.
Pioneers are visionaries. They see potential and blaze trails. They build things, bring their friends and families, and create a buzz. Pioneers can build their dreams anywhere. We want them to choose Pittsburgh.
Calling all pioneers near and far
We’re looking for the next wave of pioneers who will realize our region’s potential and put us on a sustainable growth trajectory. We’ve got home-grown dreamers, first movers, and innovators planting seeds today. Our job is to identify them and understand their experience here so we can harness what’s working (and mend what’s not) to become a magnet for more.
The seeds of our new future
Young talent.
We’re building a youth-centric, pro-Pittsburgh system
Today’s youth are at the center of a complex system of influencers — shaping their attitudes and behaviors — and ultimately their future journey. Let’s map this system to understand gaps and opportunities.
FORGING THE FUTURE
Visionary
entrepreneurs.
For a new future, we need a garden of new thinkers
A century ago, Pittsburgh was America’s cauldron of innovation. We have the tools to make that happen again. We’ll learn what these innovators want and create programs that clear their path.
NEW BLOOD & NEW THINKING
Outside influencers.
We have what these groups want
We’ve been insular for decades. We have to aggressively court and welcome the new Pittsburghers who are going to make this their home and build their (and our) futures.
THE KEY TO OUR NEW FUTURE
Creative leaders.
Building a pipeline of leaders to light the way
Great leadership is both essential and scarce. Why leave our future to chance? Through the continuum of our programs, Pittsburgh Tomorrow will help develop, connect and position the people who will guide the most important sectors.