Jobs for the Future

Jobs for the Future (operating at jff.org) is a policy and systems innovation organization engineered for transforming education and workforce development in the U.S. Founded in 1981 by Arthur H. White and Hilary Pennington, and headquartered in Boston, JFF bridges gaps between education, workforce training, and economic opportunity. Unlike traditional workforce programs that focus on isolated interventions, JFF designs scalable, systemic solutions—partnering with states, nonprofits, and businesses to revamp entire systems. Its approach combines policy advocacy, research-backed strategies, and direct implementation, such as funding and coaching for youth-serving organizations to connect workers with high-demand roles. This allows policymakers, educators, and employers to drive equitable economic growth for millions. Backed by $104.5 million in new grants and contracts in fiscal year 2022—a 28.5% increase—JFF also invests in early-stage ventures through JFFVentures, supporting entrepreneurs with lived experiences building workforce solutions.