Research That Drives Change
Insights → Action
Last Mile was built with data at its core—because real change happens when evidence inspires action. Our mission is to continually learn from our data, share what we discover, and advocate fiercely for striving, financially vulnerable students near graduation in high-demand STEM fields. We don’t just provide awards—we advance systems.
We transform student stories into evidence, evidence into advocacy, and advocacy into lasting impact.
Identify effective financial support strategies for financially vulnerable students.
Develop and disseminate policies and practices for unlocking the potential of Last Mile students that can be adopted by higher education institutions, the tech ecosystem, and tech employers.
Advocate for systems-level change to support access, degree completion and career attainment among financially vulnerable students in high-demand STEM fields.
Our Goals
What We Do
Advocacy Through Research
Our research drives change. Every data point we gather becomes evidence for action, fueling advocacy that removes barriers for financially vulnerable students. With this data-driven approach, we’ve already influenced NSF funding changes for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) and championed other policy improvements that expand opportunity and equity in STEM.
Our Commitment to Robust Data Practices
From the very beginning, Last Mile has been committed to rigorous, purpose-driven data practices. With over five years of comprehensive funding data from our students, we not only evaluate applications effectively—we also uncover deeper insights into who our students are and the challenges they face. This knowledge guides every decision, ensuring that our model meets students where they are, when it matters most.
Our research philosophy begins with a simple belief: talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. By grounding our work in data, we gain a deeper understanding of the needs, challenges, and outcomes of financially vulnerable students who are striving to complete their degrees. We focus on those within sight of graduation—students who have already proven their ability to succeed, yet lack the financial safety net to finish. These are the nation’s future innovators, engineers, and technologists—and they are too valuable to lose.
We put our data to work. By analyzing what drives the success of financially vulnerable students, we measure the impact of Last Mile awards and identify the conditions that keep students on track to graduation. Our evaluation generates evidence-based recommendations that strengthen retention and completion not only for striving students, but for higher education as a whole. In doing so, we prove that the right support at the right moment can transform outcomes for individuals, institutions, and the workforce alike.
Turning Evidence Into Impact
At Last Mile, data is more than numbers—it’s a catalyst for transformation. By connecting student stories to measurable outcomes, we illuminate both the urgency and the opportunity before us. This evidence strengthens our call to action for funders, policymakers, and higher education leaders, proving that the right support at the right time does more than help students graduate—it changes the trajectory of entire communities.
From Data To Dialog
We believe research matters most when it drives change. That’s why we share our findings widely—with policymakers, educators, employers, and the public—ensuring the voices of financially vulnerable students are impossible to ignore. Through comprehensive reports, policy briefs, and national presentations, we put evidence into the hands of decision-makers. And by engaging with the media, we shine a spotlight on the urgent need for targeted financial support, reshaping higher education policy to reflect the promise and potential of every student.
Change is a Team Effort
We know lasting change is never built alone. That’s why we forge powerful partnerships—with universities, faculty, researchers, and sector leaders—to amplify our impact and accelerate solutions. Collaboration isn’t just part of our mission; it’s the force that makes it possible. Together, we transform data into action, and potential into progress.
Examples of our research reports:
Partnerships That Multiply Impact
Research Collaborations
We join forces with academic institutions, research organizations, and ecosystem partners to conduct joint studies and share data—building and strengthening the evidence base that drives smarter policy and practice across higher education.
Advocacy Campaigns
Together with advocacy groups, we elevate and amplify student voices and champion bold systemic policy changes that expand opportunity, dismantle barriers, and unlock the nation’s hidden talent.
Funding & Resources
With the support of forward-thinking foundations and corporations, we secure the vital investments and resources that power student success—turning financial obstacles into graduation stories and career launches.
Always Learning, Always Improving
Measuring What Matters
At Last Mile, learning never stops. We cultivate a culture of continuous improvement, where every insight sharpens our impact and every dataset deepens our understanding. Our data practices are regularly reviewed and refined to ensure accuracy, relevance, and the highest standards of privacy and security. By combining quantitative and qualitative methods, we go beyond numbers to uncover the real stories and relationships between Last Mile funding and student outcomes. This relentless pursuit of knowledge ensures our model evolves, strengthens, and delivers for the students who need it most.
We believe impact should be more than a promise—it should be proven. These measures ensure that every investment in Last Mile is tied to real, lasting change.
Graduation Rates
Tracking how Last Mile support drives dramatic gains in retention and degree completion for financially vulnerable students.
Policy Changes
Measuring the real-world impact of our advocacy—the policy shifts we’ve influenced to expand opportunity at scale.
Employment Outcomes
Capturing the career trajectories of Last Mile alumni and the critical roles they play in shaping the future workforce.
Behind Every Data Point
This support came at a crucial juncture in my educational journey. Being solely responsible for financing my college education, the Last Mile funding lifted a significant financial burden and provided me with invaluable resources.
Justin V.
Central Connecticut State University Class of 2022
As a student away from home, the pandemic almost left my sister and I homeless and without support. Last Mile aid helped my sister and I afford basic living expenses during the pandemic. Because I could check off our basic needs, I had the mental space to focus on my studies. I was able to end the semesters with a 4.0 GPA which contributed to graduating Summa Cum Laude and with Distinction. Last Mile is committed to doing that and supporting our dreams and aspirations.
Christabel A.
Philander Smith University, Class of 2022
Due to health issues, I quit my job that helped pay for school. My family helped briefly, but after my dad's stroke and unexpected medical expenses, they couldn’t support my final year. I was unsure how I’d afford tuition and rent for the next 5 months. At a tech career fair, I ran into Last Mile. I had just quit my job to focus on my health and stay in school, giving up my scholarship. Without Last Mile, I would have had to take a semester off to save and then re-enroll. Today Rebekah is finishing her degree and graduating in May 2025.
Rebekah W.
University of Maryland, Class of 2025
"Free, no strings attached financial support for college students?" I thought, "certainly too good to be true!" I left it at that for a while, as I had never imagined an organization like Last Mile could ever exist. However, during the beginning of my junior year, I found myself facing my own financial challenge, where a broken laptop posed an obstacle for my continuing education. Without a laptop, I wouldn't be able to apply and interview for summer internships, which are one of the most critical ways students can be set up for early-career success. Desperate, I turned to Last Mile, who stepped in to cover the costs of my laptop, ensuring I could continue to reach and fight for opportunities that would have otherwise been closed to me.
In December, I graduated from both my Bachelor's and Master's in Computer Science at Stanford, focusing on the study of Artificial Intelligence, and started my first full time job at Uber as a Software Engineer! I can't wait to see all the accomplishments from Last Mile students like me in the future, and I look forward to giving back to the Last Mile community.
Flora H.
Stanford University, Class of 2024
The funding I received from Last Mile gave me the freedom to focus on my studies, research, and community-led grant projects. Without Last Mile’s support, there’s no way I would have been able to accomplish so much. I make sure to tell everyone I can about Last Mile, encouraging them to apply. The challenges in my field are tough enough, and I explain how Last Mile can ease the pressure of both school and personal life. With their support, students can focus more on their education and make the most of their academic journey.
Stephanie M.
University of Houston-Downtown, Class of 2026
I previously had support from my parents but after they divorced every expense was left up to me. I was working part time as a scrum master intern but I did not have enough funds to cover my bills and college expenses. I remember receiving the email that I had received funding. At the time where I felt alone, I immediately felt supported and encouraged to finish my degree.
Jana J.
University of Houston, Class of 2020
I was an undergraduate student facing significant financial and emotional hardships due to the loss of my father to cancer, as well as the passing of family members and others within our Navajo Nation community to COVID-19. This support not only enabled me to complete my undergraduate degree but also motivated me to pursue graduate studies and a career in technology.
Felicie T.
Navajo Technical University, Class of 2023
For most of my college journey, I was stuck in a cycle—working multiple jobs just to keep up with tuition, constantly stressed about whether I could even afford to finish. Then I found Last Mile. My initial reaction was that this has to be a unreal. Free funding to help me graduate? It felt too good to be true. But taking that leap changed everything. Last Mile lifted the weight off my shoulders, allowing me to focus on my education instead of just surviving. Looking back, I wish I had known about it sooner—but instead of dwelling on that, I now use my experience to spread the word. Through NSBE and ColorStack, I want every student facing the same struggles to know that help is out there. Last Mile is here for students, and it’s life-changing.
Beteab T.
St. Cloud University, Class of 2025
Last Mile Education Fund significantly improved my motivation and persistence in attaining my bachelor's degree by providing financial relief, positive mental wellness, and encouragement.
Because of Last Mile, I am able to fulfill my academic achievements and personal goals. I've recently heard back from the University of New Mexico and I've been accepted into the Department of Computer Engineering program! I will be attending UNM to pursue a Master of Science in Computer Engineering with a specialization in the Internet of Things. Last Mile gave me the motivation and courage to complete my undergraduate degree which is an opportunity that I'm forever grateful for.
Tamara F.
Northern New Mexico College, Class of 2024
Take Action
We make smart, urgent, catalytic investments. Whether you’re a student who needs support, a donor looking for impact, or a partner ready to change the system—there’s a place for you at Last Mile.