Problem In our modern economy, a college degree is still the primary way that children can become self-sufficient and contributing adults. Unfortunately for many students — especially in low-income areas — lack of sufficient savings for college has been a barrier to higher educational attainment, limiting opportunities for future economic […]Tishaura Jones | Treasurer | St. Louis, MO 2014 Challenge Winner

Problem Roughly half the private sector workforce, including over 2.5 million Illinois residents, lack access to employer-sponsored retirement plans and will not have enough money saved up for retirement. That means that a large percentage of workers will be almost entirely dependent on Social Security – which is not a […]Daniel Biss | Former Senator | Evanston, IL 2014 Challenge Finalist

Problem Currently, several groups manage various financial literacy resources and tools within their own domains but there is no central location or resource for people of every age to leverage these tools. Additionally, there is no group to look for partnership opportunities across these organizations and resources. Solution State Treasurer […]Janet Cowell | Former State Treasurer, NC | Statewide, NC

Problem Pensions that are underfunded at the city and county level are often a major driver of local budget shortfalls. Solution Senator Mello proposed legislation this year requiring local pension plans that are underfunded or underwater to file a report with the Legislature analyzing the plan’s condition and identifying potential […]Heath Mello | University of Nebraska | Omaha, NE