This landscape analysis examines data, design, technology, and innovation-enabled approaches that make it easier for eligible people to enroll in, and receive, federally-funded social safety net benefits, with a focus on the earliest adaptations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This quarterly research update aims to highlight key learnings related to improving unemployment insurance (UI) systems in the areas of equity, timeliness, and fraud, and monitor for model UI legislation and policy related specifically to technology. Subscribe to receive future editions.
This panel discussion from the Academy's 2025 Policy Summit explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and public benefits, examining how technological advancements are influencing policy decisions and the delivery of social services.
On July 16, members of the Digital Identity Community of practice gathered to learn how peers are gathering beneficiary feedback on their experiences with accounts and proving their identity.
Led by the Digital Benefits Network in partnership with Public Policy Lab, the Digital Doorways research project amplifies the lived experiences of beneficiaries to provide new insights into people’s experiences with digital identity processes and technology in public benefits. This report details the project’s findings, directly highlighting the voices of beneficiaries through videos and photos.
This report analyzes the critical role of SNAP’s "broad-based categorical eligibility" (BBCE) policy and the widespread consequences of its potential elimination by the Trump Administration.
Recapping the work and achievements of the Digital Benefits Network (DBN), Digital Service Network (DSN), and the State Chief Data Officers Network (CDO) in 2025.
This blog post describes how the NYC Service Design Studio engaged residents in the development of the Community Compensation Fund, highlighting lessons on trust-building, equitable collaboration, and inclusive community decision-making.
