WWe were an early funder of a strategic partnership which led to the creation of the College Completion Innovation Fund (CCIF) through Graduate NYC. We helped establish the CCIF, now housed within the CUNY Office of K16 Initiatives, to collaboratively engage funders in efforts to increase college persistence and completion rates throughout the five boroughs, and to harness the collective expertise and impact of a wide range of philanthropic and education organizations. The CCIF engages the local college access and success communities to lead efforts to improve college readiness and degree completion rates in New York City. Its grants support colleges and nonprofit community-based organizations in implementing innovative programs that address the unique challenges faced by underrepresented students. In addition to its role in catalyzing innovation and expanding successful practices, the CCIF also provides professional development and technical assistance to its grantees and facilitates ongoing dialogue related to increasing degree attainment in New York City. A 2023 analysis of CCIF-funded projects showed that 95% of grantees continued the project after the grant period and moreover, 74% of projects produced measurable success in one or more of the following categories: student retention; student persistence, academic progress; and, completion rates.
College Completion Innovation Fund | Strategic Partnerships | Focus Areas