Award: Massachusetts Pathways to Economic Advancement Project

April 20, 2021

Innovations in American Government Awards

  • AWARD WON: 2020 Finalist
  • AWARDEE: Massachusetts Pathways to Economic Advancement Project  
  • DESIGNEE: Commonwealth of Massachusetts; Jewish Vocational Services Boston; and Social Finance
  • JURISDICTION: Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Developed through a partnership of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts; Jewish Vocational Service (JVS Boston); and Social Finance, a Boston-based nonprofit; Massachusetts Pathways to Economic Advancement Project is a Pay for Success (PFS) initiative that aims to increase employment opportunities for limited-English speakers and help them progress up the economic ladder by providing workforce development services. The project is the first PFS project in Massachusetts and the United States to focus exclusively on workforce development.

Vocational English language classes, integrated with job search assistance and coaching, will assist participants in making successful transitions to employment, higher-wage jobs, and higher education. JVS Boston, one of the area’s largest community-based workforce and adult education providers, draws on its longstanding expertise integrating adult education and workforce development to help implement the program. The Commonwealth will repay investors only if JVS Boston successfully achieves positive outcomes for participants, as defined in the contract.

Read the Case Study