How we work

This systems-level work — from research to investing to policy and more — is meant to benefit large numbers of individuals, especially those who face the greatest challenges accessing postsecondary education and opportunity.
We engage education providers, employers, communities, policymakers, and a variety of collaborators, including funders and state, regional, and national organizations. Working alongside our partners, we are aiming for a triple win: better results for learners, more agile education and workforce systems, and stronger, more resilient economies.

The goal of our research is to help answer hard questions about postsecondary success and economic opportunity. We seek a better understanding of what students need to realize their career goals, and what employers need to build a robust talent pipeline.

We provide grants to nonprofit organizations and postsecondary education providers that are developing innovative solutions to help students and workers overcome systemic barriers and achieve success.

We share what we are learning about effective policy solutions that demonstrate how postsecondary education can create equitable pathways to opportunity, as well as work with policymakers to advance evidence-based policy and practices.

We invest in early-stage and established companies whose business models support the needs and goals of the students and workers we seek to serve.