Basta

Basta is closing the employment gap for first-generation students, enabling them to secure great jobs, launch careers, and change the face of leadership in the workforce.

Since 2016, Basta has built innovative, data-driven solutions ensuring students convert their hard-earned degrees into a great first job. Through AI-enabled, personalized career preparation and partnerships with top employers, Basta is accelerating the professional journey of thousands of first-gen students. Basta’s tech-enabled career navigation platform, Discovery, provides on-demand career readiness support and resources with the following key components: AI-enabled Seekr insights survey, personalized career coaching, live virtual workshops, and access to a curated job board from Basta’s employer partners. Basta utilizes technology to match promising young professionals to the right employer without forgetting the power of social capital.

Postsecondary education and career pathways for first-generation students emerged as a clear priority for Philadelphians. GreenLight selected Basta as the proven, innovative model best positioned to strengthen local efforts and deliver impact. Outcomes for Basta’s Discovery platform show 77% of job-seeking applicants secure at least one first-round interview within 6 weeks of participating and 78% say they’re more likely to reach out to a connection when applying for a job. In partnership with higher education institutions, community-based organizations, and local employers, Basta will accelerate first-generation college students’ access to great jobs, enabling success in promising careers for young adults who often face barriers to these opportunities. Basta plans to reach 11,000 learners across Philadelphia in the next four years.