Our Approach

4th Industrial Revolution for All Phase 1

Why this project excited us: A fully-remote intensive training program that has 90% of its trainees placed in high-growth global AI and related careers, as well as investment in a new highly automated university to job transition (U2J) program and the development of a pay-it-forward student financing fund.

Total grant amount: $270,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 220 individuals, increasing their annual earnings by $1,720 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $11,922 per person. This results in costing $360 per person to equivalently double their income over their lifetime (cost-per-DIL).

Indigenous Green Jobs Initiative

Why this project excited us: The Indigenous Green Jobs Initiative will create green job pathways for Montana’s eight tribal nations. Led by Salish Kootenai College and Accelerate Montana, the project will engage tribal leaders, colleges, employers, and agencies to develop skills-based training programs focused on job awareness, readiness, and advancement.

Total grant amount: $500,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $39,570 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,187,100 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $308,646,000.

Digital Services for Improved Agricultural Productivity, Livelihoods, Social-Inclusion of women and youth smallholder farmers in Kilifi and West Pokot Counties, Kenya

Why this project excited us: This project aims to support 50,000 marginalized smallholder farmers, with a focus on women, youth, and people with disabilities, by training 2,500 Community Digital Champions to serve as trainers who will deliver digital skills and tools to boost incomes and productivity. By addressing systemic barriers like the gender digital divide and prioritizing inclusivity and sustainability, it offers transformative potential for Kenya’s agriculture sector and beyond.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to cost $16 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $628 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $18,843 per person.

ThriveTech: Trauma-Informed Advanced Curriculum and Workplace Readiness Initiative

Why this project excited us: This grant provides survivors of human trafficking with trauma-informed training, industry-relevant, in-demand tech skills, and practical experience, empowering them to achieve financial independence and long-term stability. By prioritizing underserved populations such as women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals, it fosters equitable access to high-paying careers while dismantling systemic barriers and promoting inclusivity in the workforce.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $50,930 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,527,900 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $105,490,581

codeHive Program

Why this project excited us: This grant supports codeHive, a proven, cost-effective program equipping young women from low-income and refugee communities in East Africa with tech skills, mentorship, and job placement. Its residential model removes key barriers, enabling access to formal employment. Graduates see a 4.5x income increase, driving economic mobility and unlocking regional talent.

Total grant amount: $125,000

This project is estimated to cost $971 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $5,088 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $152,640 per person.

Fulfilling America’s Demand for Green Jobs by Developing a Talent Pipeline in “Clean Tech” through Apprenticeships

Why this project excited us: Apprenti will expand registered apprenticeships to help more low-income, underrepresented individuals access careers in fields like software development and hardware engineering—key roles in wind, solar, biotech, and EV industries. The program emphasizes nationally recognized credentials, hands-on training, and competitive wages to support long-term career growth and economic mobility.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $49,000 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,470,000 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $147,000,000.

AI-Powered Personalized Career Matching

Why this project excited us: Best Fit Inc. leverages AI to provide personalized career matching for approximately 3,500 underserved individuals, directly improving employment outcomes and significantly increasing their annual income through tailored career pathways.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $2,233 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $13,293 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $126,279,742.

Jenga Wanawake Kwa Ufundi Katika Sekta ya Ujenzi (Empowering Women through Construction)

Why this project excited us: BuildHer's proposed project aims to empower women in the construction sector by providing technical training, job management, personal development, leadership and entrepreneurship training, as well as hands-on site experience through work-integrated learning projects and fit-out assignments.

Total grant amount: $250,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 33 individuals, increasing their annual earnings by $1,110 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $7,947 per person. This results in costing $319 per person to equivalently double their income over their lifetime (cost-per-DIL).

Empowering Construction Tradeswomen: Harnessing Data Insights for Greater Impact and Income Growth

Why this project excited us: BuildHer is launching a new alumni data system using Poket, an app that incentivizes surveys and shares community insights to boost engagement. It will help refine training, improve job placement, and track long-term impact—offering a model other GitLab Foundation grantees could adopt.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to cost $988 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $225 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $6,750 per person.

Skills-Based Hiring to Reduce Employment Disparities

Why this project excited us: The Burnes Center utilizes AI to support public agencies in eliminating degree requirements, transitioning to skills-based hiring, reducing barriers, and increasing equitable access to high-quality employment.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $5,399 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $39,333 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $31,466,319.

Education Quality Outcomes Standards (EQOS)

Why this project excited us: The goal of this project is toincrease adoption of the most effective US market credentials through the development of a quality assessment framework and aligned products that improve credential adoption, access and use.

Total grant amount: $2,900,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $2,102 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $63,060 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $135,334,768,620.

Building an AI-Driven Job-to-Job Transition Recommender System

Why this project excited us: An AI-powered job recommender system that helps workers decide when and where to switch jobs by comparing the projected value of staying in their current role versus switching. It offers personalized recommendations for better job alternatives, including expected career and salary progression for each path.

Total grant amount: $100,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $3,000 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $20,840 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $833,581,010. 

Launching Wyatt

Why this project excited us: Launching Wyatt, a Digital FAFSA Adviser that Guides Students Toward Critical Financial Aid.

Total grant amount: $350,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 10,000 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $1,300 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $23,267 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $232,670,000. 

Diverse Talent Building Strategies for High Road Energy Employers

Why this project excited us: CAEL strengthens education-to-career pathways for adult learners by uniting stakeholders and providing tools to better serve this population. With GitLab Foundation and Strada Foundation co-funding, CAEL will expand the EPCE IEP network to include community-based organizations, tech/data partners, and workforce development agents serving marginalized groups.

Total grant amount: $300,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $18,000 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $540,000 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $198,720,000.

AI Pathway Guide for Credential Completion

Why this project excited us: CampusEvolve's personalized AI conversational tool guides low-income students in Washington State through pathways to complete valuable post-secondary credentials, significantly increasing credential completion rates and economic mobility.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $10,034 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $56,720 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $226,880,960.

Climate-Smart Agriculture Training and Livelihoods Hub for Youth in Kenya

Why this project excited us: Engaging younger Kenyans in the business of improving agricultural practices helps increase farm yield and 10X incomes while also helping solve the demographic challenge of rural farm communities losing their youth to cities. 

Total grant amount: $125,000

This project is estimated to cost $35 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $1,171 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $35,130 per person.

The AI Career "Coach"

Why this project excited us: The AI Career Coach (“Coach”) aims to put the world’s greatest career coach in the pocket of millions globally leveraging generative AI and CareerVillage’s extensive dataset of career coaching content accumulated through a decade+ of large-scale career advising, our community of millions of learners and 135,000 industry professionals, and with the support of dozens of established education and workforce development partners.

Total grant amount: $100,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 7,000 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $233 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $2,078 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $14,546,000.

Building Consistent Feedback Loops for Enhanced User Engagement and Impact

Why this project excited us: This project strengthens CareerVillage’s feedback culture by partnering with Listen4Good to center user voices in program design. It will help data, partner success, and fundraising teams build trust through real user insights, leading to better product design, increased job placements, and improved program outcomes. This marks our first collaboration with feedback leader Listen4Good, born out of the Fund for Shared Insight.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $555 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $16,650 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $18,315,000.

Care Economy “Last Mile” Job Matching

Why this project excited us: A very unique direct integration with state Medicaid workflows to automate the process of matching care workers with jobs creates income-generating value for both sides of the marketplace (families needing care to remain employed, and low-income care workers).

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $6,440 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $193,200 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $96,600,000.

Denise Fairchild Sustainable Communities Institute

Why this project excited us: In partnership with local and state institutions, CDTech will expand the Sustainable Communities Apprenticeship Program to tackle workforce barriers and prepare South LA residents for green jobs. The program will build a talent pipeline for roles in nonprofits and public agencies focused on climate, including oil well remediation, transportation, and sustainability.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $32,436 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $973,078 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $129,743,688.

Customized AI Training for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals

Why this project excited us: CEO leverages AI to deliver personalized training tools designed specifically for formerly incarcerated individuals, significantly improving job placement outcomes and providing sustainable, living-wage careers, thus reducing recidivism and poverty.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $5,694 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $50,802 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $50,802,375.

TechCraft BPO Hub

Why this project excited us: CFK Africa’s TechCraft project equips youth in informal settlements with tech skills and gig economy access through a Business Process Outsourcing hub in Kibera. Serving 6,000 trained youth, it aims for 75% to secure paid freelance work and at least 50% to transition to full-time jobs, boosting economic mobility for themselves and their families. The first year will enroll 200 youth.

Total grant amount: $125,000

This project is estimated to cost $140 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $663 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $19,890 per person.

From the Ground Up: Rebuilding the Appalachian Economy

Why this project excited us: Expanded micro-credentialing programming in the solar, wind, and geothermal sectors in the Appalachian region. The organization will train and connect at least 220 trainees each year to social enterprises, contributing to regional economic development.

Total grant amount: $800,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 424 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $15,445 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $138,576 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $58,756,224.

Scaling Training and Apprenticeship Models

Why this project excited us: Code the Dream’s model and the success of its graduates have resulted in soaring demand for its services. From 2021 to 2022, the number of applicants grew by over 70%, from 788 to 1,356. This project solves two bottlenecks - class training capacity and apprenticeship capacity.

Total grant amount: $700,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 40 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $50,495 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $599,723 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $23,988,920.

Developing High Quality Talent Pipelines

Why this project excited us: CodePath is equipping people with the skills required for the digital economy, closing income gaps, and increasing lifetime earnings for underrepresented populations. CodePath will deliver rigorous, industry-aligned Computer Science courses through university systems, teach students in-demand specialties, build their confidence through technical interview courses, and then match them for interviews and internships with tech companies.

Total grant amount: $325,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 209 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $45,713 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $353,036 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $73,784,524.

Reprogramming Higher Ed to Create the Most Diverse Generation of AI-enabled Engineers

Why this project excited us: This project leverages AI to increase outcomes, improve the student learning experience, and train students with the skills they need to take full advantage of new roles created by evolving AI technologies.

Total grant amount: $350,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 1,180 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $11,000 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $103,696 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $122,361,280. 

Enable Robust Measurement of CodePath’s Impact on Technical Employment Rates for Underrepresented Computing Students by Improving Access to University Employment Outcomes Using LinkedIn Career Data

Why this project excited us: This project will scrape LinkedIn profiles of university computer science students in universities and CodePath’s students to create a valid comparison analysis. This innovative approach supports CodePath’s goals by generating valuable insights into technical employment outcomes and fostering stronger connections within the tech education community through data sharing. If successful, this project could be transformative for workforce development, offering longitudinal data analysis that demonstrates program impact and drives systemic change in the sector.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $623 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $18,690 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $18,690,000.

Jóvenes listos para el Futuro (Colombians Future-Ready)

Why this project excited us: Crack the Code stands out for its innovative approach to addressing the digital talent gap, educational dropouts, and gender disparities in technology. With a proven track record of impacting over 16,000 students across 70 public schools and backed by 30 employer partnerships, it equips youth with critical digital and socio-emotional skills needed for the 21st-century workforce. This grant aligns with our Colombia strategic direction by bolstering a robust talent pipeline for formal employment.

Total grant amount: $125,000

This project is estimated to cost $9 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $1,616 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $48,474 per person.

Open Education and Occupation Data Network (OPEN)

Why this project excited us: Credential Engine's AI-powered OPEN initiative creates transparent, interoperable credential data systems that directly align education and job market demands, dramatically enhancing access to high-quality job opportunities for underserved populations.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $4,100 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $35,831 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $429,974,237.

Open Education and Occupation Data Network (OPEN)

Why this project excited us: Credential Engine’s OPEN initiative converts siloed, unstructured education and workforce data into open, interoperable formats, giving learners and workers actionable insights. It also provides access to credential datasets developed through EQOS.

Total grant amount: $100,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $62 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,851 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $175,381,057.

Optimizing Financial Health and Financial Inclusion among Low-Income and At-Risk Individuals in Colombia

Why this project excited us: DataKind proposes partnering with Fundación Capital to enhance financial inclusion for low-income and at-risk individuals in Colombia. Using Fundación Capital’s digital tools—LISTA, a modular training platform, and Con-Héctor, a chatbot—DataKind will develop a recommender system to deliver personalized, timely financial education and services based on each user’s needs.

Total grant amount: $100,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $341 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $3,265 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $649,798. 

AI Innovation to Strengthen Kenya’s Agricultural Extension System

Why this project excited us: Digital Green is working in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture’s agricultural extension system and cooperatives in Kenya to deploy an AI-enabled digital assistant for extension agents to facilitate efficient delivery of customized advisory recommendations to small-scale farmers at scale; and to gather and use feedback and practice adoption data to improve the quality and gender responsiveness of the recommendations.

Total grant amount: $350,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 155,505 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $161 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,519 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $236,212,095

Bridging Gaps: Farmer.Chat Engagement and Outcomes for Kenyan Small-Scale Farmers

Why this project excited us: This project aims to assess outcomes and gather feedback from Kenyan farmers using Farmer.Chat by conducting randomized interviews with 400 farmers. In collaboration with 60 Decibels, a leading impact measurement vendor, Digital Green will use these insights to refine Farmer.Chat’s effectiveness in meeting farmers’ information needs, ensuring high-quality standards, and shaping a scale-up plan for Kenya. Given that thousands of farmers use the app, any program improvements informed by this study will have a substantial impact on the farming community due to its extensive reach.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $12 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $360 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $18,000,000.

Scaling Farmer.Chat to improve self-efficacy and incomes of smallholder farmers in Kenya

Why this project excited us: Digital Green’s Farmer.Chat AI based farmer guidance tool has already proven its value during its first year testing in Kenya by exceeding expectations of user engagement and income impacts, reaching over 155,000 farmers with timely, actionable advice that directly improved incomes and farm practices. This is the first renewal grant of a project originating from our AI for Economic Opportunity round 1. 

Total grant amount: $500,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $215 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $6,450 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $880,425,000.

Green For All

Why this project excited us: Dream.org and Frontline Gig are partnering to open pathways into green and climate-tech industries through AI-driven apprenticeships, leadership development, and advocacy training. The initiative will equip 1,000 participants with in-demand skills for living-wage jobs, building a more diverse, resilient climate workforce nationwide.

Total grant amount: $350,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $2,670 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $80,097 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $155,744,341.

AI-Enhanced Employment Match

Why this project excited us: Bridging Skills and Opportunities for Navajo People: the objective is to place 200-500 Navajos into net-new ‘Thriving Wage Jobs’ or better paying jobs in 2024 and for this number to increase annually as the range of jobs with validated competency maps and the number of Navajo job seekers complete guided upskilling plans increases.

Total grant amount: $100,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $27,490 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $797,198 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $27,901,944.

Digital Wrap-around Supports to Improve Workforce System Outcomes

Why this project excited us: Post-program supports, such as text follow-ups or check in calls, are rare in workforce development and training programs, and Empower Work seems to be a highly scalable model of low-cost touchpoints to improve employment stability and outcomes. They have also secured partners with large numbers of clientele, including two existing grantees of GitLab Foundation, which may help improve the outcomes of those programs.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $395 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $11,861 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $190,614,917.

Increasing Outcomes of Workforce Programs through Rapid Response Financial Support

Why this project excited us: Footbridge for Families uses a data-driven model to prevent small financial crises from becoming long-term issues like homelessness or child welfare cases. By providing rapid, targeted aid, it stabilizes families and unlocks potential public funding. This grant supports a rigorous evaluation to help scale the model nationally and reshape how agencies address financial emergencies and support workforce stability.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $10,699 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $320,984 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $35,308,270. 

Financing of Return To Employment in Colombia

Why this project excited us: Forte's financing model uses revolving scholarships to ensure sustainable funding for ongoing training programs in Colombia. This approach, combined with their outcomes-focused model, has achieved a 71% employment rate, significantly outperforming traditional programs. By targeting disadvantaged youth, Forte ensures that investments are continuously recycled to create lasting economic impact - bolstered by a generous $700,000 public commitment.

Total grant amount: $150,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $7,172 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $638,431 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $222,812,277. 

CDL - A Licensure Wrap Around

Why this project excited us: A $375,000 grant will help develop a data tracking system, enroll formerly incarcerated individuals in virtual and in-person CDL-A classes, and place them in stable trucking careers. FreeWorld’s motto of “Radical Barrier Removal’ will get participants a professional licensure, place them in careers earning an average of $60,000, and pave the way for generational wealth building. 

Total grant amount: $375,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $46,000 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,380,000 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $179,400,000. 

Building the Infrastructure for a New Gold Standard in Longitudinal Income and Recidivism Data

Why this project excited us: FreeWorld is partnering with Tax Guard and Checkr to validate wage and employment outcomes through tax return data and recidivism checks. This reliable, direct data goes beyond traditional surveys, enabling more accurate tracking of graduate success. It will strengthen program delivery, improve job placement, and feed into a national open-source data platform supporting criminal justice reform. If successful, this model could set a new standard for evaluating workforce development.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $3,480 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $104,400 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $18,478,800.

Workforce Efficiency Engine

Why this project excited us: FreeWorld is connecting returning citizens to in-demand careers through strategic partnerships with American Job Centers and enhanced access to public training funds. By integrating its tech-enabled system with AJCs, FreeWorld reduces reliance on philanthropy, ensures a more sustainable impact, and empowers individuals to quickly access living-wage jobs. FreeWorld is strengthening national talent pipelines and boosting economic mobility for entire communities.

Total grant amount: $700,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $45,000 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,350,000 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $486,315,789. 

Empowering Underrepresented Youth with Digital Skills and Launching the O-Lab AI Tutor

Why this project excited us: O-Lab will leverage its AI and gamified learning approach to address systemic barriers to education and employment for underrepresented youth. By equipping participants with critical skills for the digital economy and creating tailored competency-based training, O-Lab ensures that youth are prepared for real-world job opportunities. This initiative actively engages employers by providing actionable insights into candidate readiness and fostering equitable hiring practices, creating a direct bridge between education and meaningful employment.

Total grant amount: $125,000

This project is estimated to cost $323 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $5,250 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $157,499 per person.

Opportunities Without Borders: Degree Accreditation Pathway

Why this project excited us: This grant builds on a successful pilot and leverages a sustainable financing tool to unlock the talents of underemployed professionals across Colombia. By helping migrants and returned Colombians accredit their degrees and secure formal employment, this grant invests in personal growth and Colombia’s long-term economic development. With Lumni’s strong track record, local partnerships, and mission-aligned strategy, this project represents a scalable approach to inclusive economic mobility.

Total grant amount: $125,000

This project is estimated to cost $790 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $4,667 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $139,997 per person.

Dignifying Green Jobs Along the Informal Recycling Value Chain in Colombia

Why this project excited us: This grant marks our first foray into supporting social businesses in Colombia, focusing on formalizing informal work and creating sustainable economic opportunities. By backing Fundamental's efforts to develop businesses like Reciclamos Juntos, we are supporting a network of entrepreneurs dedicated to channeling more people into formal microenterprises.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to cost $788 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $643 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $19,277 per person.

Remote Work Pilot Expansion (Kenya)

Why this project excited us: Expansion of a Digital Freelancing Support program that supports youth to access sustainable careers as freelancers through a 6-week intensive training, a 6-week intensive internship with experienced freelancers, and a 4.5 month mentorship period.

Total grant amount: $272,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 493 individuals, increasing their annual earnings by $554 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $9,552 per person. This results in costing $39 per person to equivalently double their income over their lifetime (cost-per-DIL).

Freelancing Program Continuation

Why this project excited us: Our first-year grant helped Generation redesign a traditional training program with additional innovative supports (such as paid mentors from previous training cycles) and showed a significant uptick in wage outcomes in comparison.

Total grant amount: $300,000

This project is estimated to cost $304 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $786 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $23,580 per person.

Empowering Livelihoods: Mapping the Path to a Living Wage in Kenya

Why this project excited us: Generation will conduct focus groups and surveys with alumni in Kenya to uncover barriers to employment and financial health, including long-term unemployment, career breaks, and limited advancement opportunities. By directly incorporating alumni feedback, the project aims to refine programming, strengthen data collection, and inform broader efforts to support economic mobility in lower-middle-income countries.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to cost $994 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $98 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $2,940 per person.

Launching the Durability Collective

Why this project excited us: One of the biggest challenges in impact measurement is determining whether social programs have lasting outcomes. Nonprofits struggle to measure the impact of their programs beyond just a few months of participant graduation. This collective is the first meaningful initiative that can solve this challenge.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to cost $690 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $70 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $2,106 per person.

AI-Enhanced Direct Cash Transfers

Why this project excited us: GiveDirectly applies advanced AI targeting to enhance the efficiency of direct cash transfers, maximizing economic impact and significantly increasing lifetime incomes for vulnerable households, directly reducing poverty at scale.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $7,500 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $70,645 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $353,224,793. 

Future of Youth Workforce, Digital Talent

Why this project excited us: GOYN’s project will increase socioeconomic inclusion of youth in the growing technology sector by implementing and strengthening local partnerships in three cities. The organization will refine its Bogotá youth jobs program and pilot its Barranquilla and Cali operations. Each program will coordinate with local tech training providers and include wrap-around services, including basic skills development and socio-occupational orientation.

Total grant amount: $250,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 4,850 individuals, increasing their annual earnings by $600 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $5,432 per person. This results in costing $122 per person to equivalently double their income over their lifetime (cost-per-DIL).

Reskilling the Youth of Medellín

Why this project excited us: Good Business Lab (GBL) has launched a technology-driven public-private partnership in Medellín to source, train, and place informal workers into quality jobs. By focusing on youth—the largest group of unemployed and underemployed job seekers—GBL is not only addressing immediate economic challenges but also fostering long-term development. Through strategic relationships with major employers, GBL is bridging the gap between labor supply and demand while also creating evidence to support the ongoing training and development of workers.

Total grant amount: $150,000

This project is estimated to cost $641 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $960 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $28,800 per person.

Responsible AI for the 211 Ecosystem

Why this project excited us: Humanitas Labs, a project of Humanitas Technologies, is using AI to boost efficiency in 211 Call Centers and improve social service matching. With 240 centers handling 20 million annual contacts—and call volume doubling since the pandemic—this vital but underfunded network faces tech disparities. AI offers a scalable solution to enhance service delivery across the system.

Total grant amount: $100,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $250 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $227 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $125,000,000. 

Pathways to Prosperity: Digital Navigation for Students

Why this project excited us: Unique ability to test how connectivity (broadband, devices and navigation support) can transform access to education, employment and other opportunities for 1,350 US households.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $6,777 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $203,310 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $236,042,910.

Amplifying Impact: Enhancing Digital Equity through Strategic Learning and Data-Driven Insights

Why this project excited us: Human-I-T is partnering with 60 Decibels to gather feedback from 450 past participants, strengthening its digital equity efforts. The insights will help refine programs, boost efficiency, identify service gaps, and support evidence-based fundraising. This first-time collaboration also sets the stage for ongoing feedback systems and in-house evaluation, enhancing long-term impact and data quality.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $515 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $15,450 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $17,937,450.

Greening the Textile Sector

Why this project excited us: The Industrial Commons will use GitLab Foundation funding to expand its efforts to disrupt and transform the textile industry in North Carolina and the region. The organization will place youth in high-growth jobs, train a regional textile network on good business practices that will increase workers' pay, and leverage a $160M National Science Foundation grant to establish a new economic engine in the Appalachian region.

Total grant amount: $350,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 1,582 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $4,156 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $37,295 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $59,000,690.

Fair Employment for Marginalized Groups Powered by Proprietary AI

Why this project excited us: Intrare’s AI-driven hiring platform reduces recruitment bias and expands job access for marginalized groups like migrants and single mothers in Latin America. This grant supports its expansion into Mexico and early efforts in Colombia, advancing economic mobility and equity. We’re especially excited by Intrare’s move toward financial sustainability, strong employer partnerships, and scalable, data-backed model connecting overlooked talent to quality jobs.

Total grant amount: $150,000

This project is estimated to cost $33 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $4,956 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $148,680 per person.

Strengthening BancaLab by Expanding Financial Access for Women-Led MSMEs

Why this project excited us: Innovations for Poverty Action brings a proven approach to testing and scaling solutions that work. This project directly supports 350 women-led businesses with more accessible financing, while helping financial service providers design inclusive products. In partnership with Bancalab, it fosters collaboration and evidence generation that can influence national policy and drive long-term systems change.

Total grant amount: $125,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $252 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $7,560 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $24,298,029.

Improving Economic Opportunities for Refugees in the United States

Why this project excited us: The Immigration Policy Lab at Stanford is partnering with Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service to pilot GeoMatch, a machine learning tool that matches refugees to communities where they’re most likely to succeed. Simulations suggest it could boost initial employment rates by 30–50%. If successful, IPL plans to expand the tool to other U.S. resettlement agencies and international partners to improve refugee integration outcomes.

Total grant amount: $100,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 4,047 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $1,650 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $8,230 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $33,306,810.

GeoMatch: Measuring Impact and Improving Refugee Integration Outcomes

Why this project excited us: This project will enhance GeoMatch’s algorithm by collecting deeper data on refugee resettlement outcomes, including employment and quality of life up to 240 days post-arrival. Through interviews and expanded tracking, it aims to provide a more holistic view of the resettlement journey. These insights will strengthen GeoMatch’s effectiveness, improve cost-benefit analysis, and support better reporting by resettlement agencies to the State Department.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $77 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $2,310 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $18,480,000.

Expanding Community Benefits Agreements in Public/Private Investments

Why this project excited us: JMA will leverage GitLab Foundation Funding to capitalize on the massive public funding available for the clean and high-tech jobs transition. JMA’s 3-part strategy will mobilize support for accelerating cleantech adoption in target areas, rebuilding domestic manufacturing and maximizing community benefits in the public and private sectors. Inclusive in this application is the organization's plan to create a Community Benefits Agreement toolkit and resource center for national replication.

Total grant amount: $300,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $3,068 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $92,040 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $166,224,240.

AI-Powered ¡Reclamo! Expansion

Why this project excited us: Justicia Lab’s AI expansion of ¡Reclamo! provides accessible, actionable legal assistance to vulnerable workers facing wage theft, dramatically improving economic stability and reducing poverty through scalable, tech-enabled interventions.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $10,000 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $33,888 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $8,472,043.

Scaling Automation Assistant Program

Why this project excited us: This grant will support the piloting of a paid apprenticeship-like program in business process automation, helping reduce financial barriers to participation for low-income African students while they work to complete an advanced computer science degree.

Total grant amount: $180,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $3,600 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $124,642 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $747,852. 

Scaling Direct Innovative Financial Services to Support Displaced Venezuelan Communities in Colombia

Why this project excited us: This grant supports Kiva's efforts to transform the financial services market for Venezuelan migrants in Colombia by improving access to credit and tailored microloan products. By driving the development of more inclusive financial services and collaborating with local partners, Kiva is not only enabling sustainable businesses but also setting the stage for long-term systems change in refugee finance.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $1,361 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $40,824 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $113,858,136.

Scaling and Improving Program Outcomes by Integrating AI Into an Online Learning Platform

Why this project excited us: The Knowledge House has successfully trained over 2,500 low-income, diverse young adults in high-demand digital skills since 2014. Our investment in their operational efficiency through AI-driven tools and systems will help them extend their impact, lower costs, and improve learner retention and employment outcomes. By enhancing their ability to deliver four core programs across multiple cities, this investment aligns with our strategy of placing lower-wage workers into high-wage industries.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $3,063 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $91,875 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $144,703,125.

Eco-lombia: Formación para el turismo sostenible (“Sustainable Tourism Training”)

Why this project excited us: Kuepa EduTech will use this grant to train underrepresented Colombian youth, women, and Venezuelan migrants for careers in hospitality and ecotourism. Participants will earn an accredited diploma, complete a paid 6-month internship, and receive wrap-around support for lasting employment. Kuepa also plans to expand the program to up to two additional sites with support from international development partners.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to cost $703 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $3,740 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $112,200 per person.

Gender Equality in Action

Why this project excited us: This project will interview women in Colombia to identify barriers to entering the tech sector, focusing on gender, age, and other equity factors within Kuepa’s education programs. Insights will help Kuepa refine strategies, build internal data capacity, and create more inclusive programs that boost employment access and economic growth.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to cost $1,000 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $1,296 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $38,880 per person.

Empowering Women in Latin America through Transformative Careers in Tech

Why this project excited us: Laboratoria will train 130 women as front-end developers and UX designers, placing at least 80% of graduates in quality jobs. Additionally, this investment will help the organization launch a new data analysis program designed to scale to greater Latin America. 

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $5,597 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $286,521 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $14,039,530.

Empowering Women for the Future: Adapting Skills and Learning Pathways for the Digital Economy

Why this project excited us: Laboratoria is developing new processes and tools, including the talent intelligence platform JobsPikr, to better identify emerging opportunities in the digital economy. These insights will help update training content and methods, improving job placement and career outcomes for women. The project aims to equip participants with in-demand skills for living-wage jobs, income growth, and financial stability, ensuring programs align with market needs and participant potential.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to cost $993 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $612 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $18,360 per person.

Capacity Building to Enable High impact Scale

Why this project excited us: Last Mile will build its operational infrastructure to scale its reach and student support. The demand for its educational microgrants has increased from an average of 76 grants per month to 532 since 2020. GitLab Foundation’s investment will drive technology and staff improvements to help unlock a portion of the $10M+ in restricted funds to help reach their goal of disbursing 830+ grants per month.

Total grant amount: $500,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $2,080 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $51,684 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $12,714,355.

Reclaiming North Lawndale with Green Energy

Why this project excited us: LCDC willestablish the first green construction firm in North Lawndale, Chicago, resulting in 1,000 new single-family homes, a worker-owned cooperative, and expansion of clean energy and green job opportunities. LCDC will create a skilled workforce capable of installing heat pumps and solar systems for up to 1,000 homes and pave the way for sustainable development in Chicago.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $40,000 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,874,818 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $120,158,801.

Income Stability and Upward Mobility for Hourly, Low-Wage Workers

Why this project excited us: Innovating Smart Chatbots for New Hire Engagement and Retention: Learning Collider will conduct a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the use of text-messaging chatbot to support, engage, and nudge workers from onboarding to 30 days on the job and beyond. The experiment will build the evidence needed to iterate and scale this technology and its potential to boost job retention which positions workers for income stability and upward mobility.

Total grant amount: $100,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $10,000 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $180,675 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $568,312,000.

Bridges to Green Jobs: Scaling to Build the Infrastructure for Equitable Green Workforce Development

Why this project excited us: LISC will scale its climate resilience and green jobs pathways within its successful Bridges to Career Opportunities initiative. This project will connect unemployed and underemployed community residents to job training, credentialing, employment coaching, and employment connection in green industries that offer opportunities for living-wage jobs and career advancement. LISC will partner with up to five local sites to create shovel-ready projects for federal funding opportunities, such as with the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund.

Total grant amount: $500,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $21,080 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $632,400 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $158,100,000.

Scaling STEM Routes in Colombia: Systemic Empowerment for Economic Inclusion through Tech Skill Development

Why this project excited us: Makaia will test and scale a STEM talent incubator and bolster internal infrastructure for long-term organizational reach. The organization plans to move 50 participants through its traditional bootcamp and train 350 individuals in computational thinking skills - as just 20% of applicants pass the logical, creative, math, and communication skills bootcamp entry test.

Total grant amount: $290,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 194 individuals, increasing their annual earnings by $1,757 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $11,767 per person. This results in costing $285 per person to equivalently double their income over their lifetime (cost-per-DIL).

Trust, Measure, Improve: A Community-Based Approach For Enhanced Program Impact

Why this project excited us: This project will build a trust-based feedback system by implementing FluentCRM and training staff in best practices, allowing Makaia to gather high-quality input from participants and alumni. It will enhance the impact and completion rates of Makaia’s STEM Incubator and boot camps, while laying the foundation for data-driven program improvements.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to cost $992 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $330 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $9,900 per person.

Making Space for Disabled Talent

Why this project excited us: Making Space helps employers adopt disability friendly hiring and employment practices at scale.The founder, Keely, has lived experience as a disabled individual and has been successful in striking partnerships with a significant number of large corporations, including NBCUniversal, Netflix, Zalando, Indeed.com, LA28, WGU, and Amazon – with more than 2,000 workers with disabilities using their platform in the first two years to connect with these employers.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $37,200 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,116,000 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $111,600,000.

Empowering Families Through Streamlined Access to Resources

Why this project excited us: Mirza’s Common App–style platform streamlines access to childcare subsidies and other safety net benefits through a single, user-friendly application. In partnership with Preschool Promise, it targets low- and middle-income families—especially mothers—living below 200% of the federal poverty level in Montgomery County, Ohio. Over two years, the platform will serve 3,297 families, with a goal of reaching 11,000 by year six, and with 42% of users experiencing an increase in household earnings. Designed to be scalable and replicable, Mirza provides a tech-enabled pathway to greater economic access and long-term financial stability.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $2,087 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $62,619 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $176,760,638.

Accelerating Employment Authorization for Immigrants via AI

Why this project excited us: Mobile Pathways leverages AI to expedite employment authorization processes for underserved immigrants and asylees, significantly shortening wait times and improving rapid entry into stable employment.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $3,328 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $31,338 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $258,540,864.

An Advanced Document Verification AI that Increases Income through SNAP

Why this project excited us: mRelief is a nonprofit that uses technology to improve access to SNAP. Every year, 7-8 million households qualify for SNAP but don’t receive benefits due to lack of awareness or the cumbersome application process. mRelief exists to change that. mRelief proposes to build an Advanced Document Verification AI that will reduce the number of SNAP applications that are rejected due to blurry, illegible, or incorrect documents.

Total grant amount: $100,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 30,740 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $1,368 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,244 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $38,240,560.

Scaling mRelief’s Impact

Why this project excited us: mRelief is closing key gaps in the social safety net by using technology to simplify access to SNAP and other public benefits. With over $1.7 billion in SNAP unlocked for 4+ million people, this grant builds on early success from our AI fund investment in their document verification tool, which has boosted screening speed and efficiency. It will support continued tech development and partnerships to expand access across more states and benefit programs.

Total grant amount: $600,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $1,136 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $34,080 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $433,952,000.

AI Innovations in Credentialing and Benefits Access

Why this project excited us: The National Accreditation Commission’s AI-driven initiative simplifies benefits enrollment and credential pathways, effectively reducing barriers for underserved students and aligning directly with long-term economic mobility through improved credential attainment.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $5,525 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $44,995 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $140,894,558.

Employer Worker Partnerships to Drive Competitiveness and Job Quality

Why this project excited us: The National Fund will use GitLab Foundation funding to center workers in job design across several industries within their local employer network. Their network of regional workforce collaboratives will partner with companies to engage employees to improve business profitability, increase compensation, and improve job quality. National Fund will also create a tool and deliver technical assistance to their collaboratives to adopt worker-centered approaches in redesigning jobs and workplaces nationally.

Total grant amount: $500,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $4,160 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $124,800 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $249,600,000.

Supporting Modernization of State Level Data Systems to Improve Outcomes

Why this project excited us: We plan to use this grant as an anchor for a grant that leverages NGA’s unique access to state leadership to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of public expenditure by modernizing state data systems. The project will enable governors and their key staff to make data-driven decisions that improve outcomes in workforce, education, and economic policy, maximizing the impact of public dollars and driving long-term, systemic change.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $689 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $20,667 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $471,758,057.

Driving Greater Income Growth: Tech-Enabled Crop Commercialization for Kenyan Smallholders

Why this project excited us: One Acre Fund has continually proven its ability to dramatically increase the productivity and income of the world’s poorest farmers in one growing season, increasing incomes by 35-40% on average. This grant draws down a dollar-for-dollar match provided by Ezrah Charitable Trust and deploys new advanced technology in Kenya with the specific goal of creating a viable commercial value chain through improved processing, value addition, and sales. The commercial customer focus, enabled through technology, would dramatically increase the market viability of produce and incomes for underlying farm economies.

Total grant amount: $750,000

This project is estimated to cost $285 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $90 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $2,685 per person.

Seeding and Scaling Green Workforce Development Across the Southwest

Why this project excited us: Organized Power In Numbers will leverage federal infrastructure funds to ensure that the tens of thousands of jobs that are being created across the Southwest region are high quality and accessible to people most impacted by climate change and racial and economic inequality. This project will partner with the local Building Trades union to scale their green energy pre-apprenticeship program and to provide wraparound support and ongoing leadership development to participants.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $17,727 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $531,818 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $146,250,000. 

Expanding Access to Economic Mobility Through Public Benefits

Why this project excited us: Expanding Access to Economic Mobility Through Public Benefits: Supporting the development and implementation of an organization-wide system to screen 10,000 learners for public benefit eligibility, increasing completion rates to 85% and employment outcomes.  

Total grant amount: $500,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $11,200 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $66,119 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $336,944,533.

Increasing ROI via Industry Engagement & In-Person Programs

Why this project excited us: Pursuit empowers low-income adults, especially those without college degrees, to launch high-paying tech careers through an outcomes-focused model that boosts lifetime earnings. Their commitment to scaling and enhancing long-term data tracking of financial and social impact positions them as a key driver of economic mobility and systemic change.

Total grant amount: $750,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $61,661 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,849,820 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $338,252,883.

Supporting Scale: RTV’s Pathways Out of Poverty Program

Why this project excited us: Raising the Village partners with last-mile farming communities in Sub-Saharan Africa over 24 months to address ultra-poverty through a multi-dimensional program model. Their rigor, intensive program design and advanced technology based data collection makes them a valuable partner to learn from in this market.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to cost $346 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $128 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $3,840 per person.

AI for Criminal Justice Employment Outcomes

Why this project excited us: Recidiviz deploys AI-driven solutions to efficiently connect formerly incarcerated individuals with stable employment, greatly reducing recidivism rates and fostering sustained economic mobility.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $9,090 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $11,992 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $124,721,781.

Democratizing Data Science

Why this project excited us: This project aims to bridge the gap between nonprofits and advanced analytics by using generative AI to unlock insights from state-held administrative data on training, workforce, unemployment, and wages. Historically inaccessible due to privacy and capacity issues, this data will become more usable through an AI “analysis bot” that leverages code generation, analysis, and summarization within a secure private LLM—empowering government employees to drive better economic outcomes.

Total grant amount: $100,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $2,000 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $60,000 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $300,000,000.

Impact of the “Launch for Jobseekers” and “Launch for Employers” Reemployment Services Portals

Why this project excited us: RIPL is using Unemployment Insurance data to assess the impact of its “Launch For Jobseekers” (LFJ) portal by linking user activity to individual earnings records. The analysis will identify which LFJ features drive job placement and wage growth, comparing outcomes with matched control groups. This data-driven approach strengthens RIPL’s impact narrative, positions Arkansas as a leader in integrated job tools, and supports expansion to states like Colorado and Hawaii. As the only grantee with quarterly UI data access, RIPL’s model could pave the way for national adoption.

Total grant amount: $50,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $509 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $15,270 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $18,308,730.

Restoring Vision, Restoring Livelihoods in Kenya

Why this project excited us: Restoring Vision provides a long-term impact on economic opportunity through providing low-cost glasses to people with vision impairment. This grant will help grow the Africa Clear Sight Partnership (ACSP) to provide 200,000 individuals in Kenya with vision screenings and reading glasses with a focus on scaling this to millions over the coming years.

Total grant amount: $633,847

This project is estimated to cost $13 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $239 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $7,171 per person.

SaaS Platform Bridging the Hiring Gap

Why this project excited us: RiseKit's platform provides a turnkey integration with existing applicant tracking systems as well as a nonprofit and job-seeker facing set of tools to reduce friction to hire under- or unemployed individuals.

Total grant amount: $360,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 889 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $5,398 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $51,912 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $46,149,768. 

AI Poverty Challenge x Robin Hood Foundation

Why this project excited us: Robin Hood Foundation has requested us to fund 9 x $100,000 “acceleration” grants for nonprofit AI applications advancing economic opportunity as part of the AI Poverty Challenge modeled after GitLab Foundation’s AI for Economic Opportunity fund. Robin Hood will fund an additional $3 million in follow-on capital (3 x $1M grants) to the most promising projects to complete our round.

Total grant amount: $900,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $8,151 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $9,194 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $1,019,816,087.

AI-Powered Financial Stability for Gig Workers

Why this project excited us: SaverLife employs AI to proactively connect gig workers with critical financial assistance, enabling increased financial stability and economic resilience by improving savings behaviors among low-income households.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $1,000 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,724 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $41,368,393.

AI-Enhanced Student Benefits Enrollment

Why this project excited us: Student Basic Needs Coalition's integration of AI into benefits enrollment significantly boosts college persistence rates by efficiently connecting underserved students to essential financial support, addressing critical barriers to credential completion.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $11,991 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $78,667 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $39,333,742. 

AI-Driven Financial Aid Allocation

Why this project excited us: Scholarship America uses AI to proactively automate financial aid awards, significantly improving access to higher education and increasing economic opportunity for underserved student populations.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $3,333 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $5,217 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $34,860,128.

Climate Resilience Workforce Development

Why this project excited us: The Semilla Project will lead a two-year initiative to advance large-scale workforce development in New Mexico, focusing on rural, low-income, and immigrant communities. By leveraging federal investments in climate resilience, green energy, and infrastructure, Semilla will open pathways to well-paying jobs through apprenticeships in fields like science and tech, ecology, outdoor recreation, and urban planning.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $36,675 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,100,256 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $117,330,084.

Advancing SER Jobs' Data Excellence to Bolster Affiliate Network Impact

Why this project excited us: SER National’s innovative approach to empowering over 40 affiliates nationwide strengthens community-based solutions for economic mobility and equity. By combining advanced data systems with a train-the-trainer model, this initiative equips organizations to address systemic barriers and improve outcomes for underserved populations. This investment will drive sustainable, scalable change, fostering economic stability for individuals and families across diverse communities.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $1,506 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $45,180 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $148,371,120.

Remote Jobs Catalog for Workers Disconnected from Strong Economies

Why this project excited us: SkillUp comprises over 100 organizations, including training and education providers, tech firms, employers, and philanthropies and helps millions of workers get hired for in-demand jobs. Through this collaboration with Gitlab, SkillUp will enhance its offering in numerous ways, including deploying AI/ML to generate higher quality jobs, outreach to additional rural markets, an integrated campaign with OneTen, O@W, Guild, and SHRM to surface remote jobs from partner employers on the catalog, and more.

Total grant amount: $400,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 796 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $10,873 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $102,499 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $81,589,204. 

Validating EQOS’ “Signal of Quality” in real-world conditions and enhancing SkillUp’s analytics and data to gain deeper insights on sectoral, employer, and regional trends on Remote Work

Why this project excited us: With over 20,000 job placements in 2024 and nearly 1 million users annually, SkillUp is a leading online career platform connecting people to learning, credentials, and jobs. This renewal grant builds on two successful GitLab Foundation investments: testing a new credential quality dataset to boost completion rates and expanding access to quality middle-skill remote jobs, including apprenticeships and earn-and-learn programs.

Total grant amount: $800,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $10,873 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $326,190 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $402,300,793.

Massachusetts Climate Careers Fund

Why this project excited us: Social Finance’s Massachusetts Climate Careers Fund is paving the way for innovative financing models that remove workers' barriers and place them into high-earning careers in the green jobs sector. In order to address the urgent need for over 30,000 skilled workers in Massachusetts, the Fund provides individuals with 0% interest and outcomes-based loans, and it leverages strong employer partnerships to ensure job placement and retention. This initiative leverages recent federal and state climate investments and is a revolving fund, extending our initial impact, similar to previous funds, including the New Jersey Pay It Forward Fund.

Total grant amount: $500,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $35,693 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $1,070,798 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $337,301,234.

AI Learning Lab (AI Hub) for Public Agency Innovation

Why this project excited us: Social Finance's AI Learning Lab allows public agencies to pilot, refine, and scale effective AI-driven interventions, dramatically enhancing economic opportunities and optimizing the use of public resources through informed innovation.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $10,160 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $60,620 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $75,775,547.

Unlocking Women’s Entrepreneurship and Clean Energy Potential with Upgraded Digital Offerings

Why this project excited us: This project supports 2,152 women entrepreneurs in sub-Saharan Africa by using tech, data, and financial tools to drive business growth and clean energy access. An AI-powered SMS tool and enhanced data systems provide real-time market insights, better strategies, and new financing, helping women boost income and expand clean energy in last-mile communities. It also creates a sustainable model for long-term economic empowerment and energy transition.

Total grant amount: $125,000

This project is estimated to cost $244 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $216 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $6,466 per person.

Audio Visual (A/V) Tech Training and Apprenticeship Expansion

Why this project excited us: Tech25 offers specialized training in audio engineering, lighting design, and live event production—fields that are AI-resistant and appealing to at-risk high school students. With structured programs, state-recognized apprenticeships, and union partnerships, Tech25 creates strong career pathways. Graduates see income gains of 50–133%, moving from ~$25K to $40K–$75K+ annually.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $4,930 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $147,900 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $20,262,300.

Middle-level IT Career Training

Why this project excited us: ITWorks’ 2.0 and 3.0 pilot program will provide a pathway to upskilling and career advancement for entry-level IT help desk associates. The organization helps to remove barriers and provide career coaching to move participants up in their careers. Entry-level positions will open for new beneficiaries, resulting in robust tech talent pipelines.

Total grant amount: $200,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 48 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $8,253 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $59,837 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $2,872,176.

Soil-To-Profit Initiative

Why this project excited us: This Initiative will revolutionize farming practices in East-Central Texas by offering targeted training programs and facilitating access to local and regional markets for Black farm producers. The Soil-To-Profit program will catalyze economic growth within agricultural sectors through small business development and market access, and will teach regenerative and ‘climate-smart’ agricultural practices through partnerships with the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service and Farm Service Agency.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $7,800 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $234,000 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $117,000,000.

Globally Competitive & Advanced VR-based Welding Certification for Kenyans

Why this project excited us: EU-level welder certification program is the first of its kind in Kenya and is targeted at replacing imported welders with local Kenyan talent.

Total grant amount: $125,000

This project is estimated to cost $692 per person to double their income over their lifetime (cost per DIL). It is estimated to increase annual earnings by $936 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $28,080 per person.

The First Wage Mobility Platform for Clean Energy Skilled Trade Jobs

Why this project excited us: TradesForce is placing millions of lower-income workers into high-paying clean energy careers, addressing labor shortages created by retiring workers and recent national public and private investment. By building a national platform that connects workers to training and high-wage jobs, it empowers historically excluded groups to access six-figure careers. This collaboration between philanthropy, industry leaders, and government ensures a lasting impact on both economic mobility and climate solutions.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $17,898 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $536,940 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $216,386,820.

UAW CMGE Green Manufacturing High-Road Training Partnership with Sparkz Battery Factory

Why this project excited us: This pilot project is the development of a high-road workforce training program for Sparkz, a lithium ferrophosphate battery manufacturer outside of Sacramento. The Sparkz program is the first of its kind in the battery industry. CMGE will build a robust and diverse recruitment pipeline for young people, women, communities of color, and underserved communities. It will include manufacturing pre-employment training, wraparound services, and a skills-based apprenticeship for production workers.

Total grant amount: $500,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $32,513 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $975,390 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $221,679,545.

Skills Primero

Why this project excited us: UnidosUS is building the critical infrastructure for skills-based hiring through its vast network of community-based organizations. Our investment will help train 185 partners, equip career coaches, and drive employer practice changes, ultimately benefiting 3,200 low-wage workers. By expanding skills-based hiring practices and strengthening UnidosUS’s capacity, we are laying the foundation for long-term systemic change in workforce development, creating pathways to better, higher-paying jobs for underserved communities.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $7,509 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $225,264 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $400,469,333.

Boosting Workforce Productivity in Skilled Trades

Why this project excited us: UpSmith’s unique approach to paid training increases incomes by aligning incentives between employees and employers, using gamification software to improve trainees' financial performance in real-time.

Total grant amount: $250,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $9,946 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $298,380 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $149,190,000. 

Building a Strong and Equitable Water Workforce

Why this project excited us: Over the next decade, the water sector must replace most of its 300,000 jobs. The Alliance’s project supports local teams in its national Water Equity Network (WEN) to develop innovative strategies that attract diverse, historically excluded talent to water careers. WEN is the nation’s only community uniting utilities and community partners to build an equitable water workforce.

Total grant amount: $500,000

This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $13,894 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $416,832 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $212,509,866.

Refugee & Immigrant Training Platform Expansion

Why this project excited us: Expanded access to online, self-paced training for recent immigrants, refugees, and asylees navigating the U.S. labor market to secure skill-aligned, professional employment.

Total grant amount: $750,000

Based on the results received to date, this project has increased incomes for 912 individuals, increasing their annual incomes by $20,033 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $124,927 per person. The total lifetime earnings increase across all participants is $113,933,424.