ABOUT
GRADUATE
PHILLY

Our History

Graduate Philadelphia began as a program established in 2005 following a comprehensive report by the United Way of Greater Philadelphia, Philadelphia Workforce Investment Board, and Pennsylvania Economy League. This report concluded Philadelphia’s economic prosperity would depend heavily on 100,000+ adults with some college credits and no degrees.

Currently, Graduate Philadelphia is a standalone 501(c)(3) committed to preserving its legacy of increasing postsecondary credential attainment while simultaneously preparing its stakeholders for the future of work and transformative change.

Mission & Vision

Graduate Philadelphia helps to advance social and economic mobility of non-traditional adult learners through postsecondary degree attainment, workforce advancement, and living wage employment.

Graduate Philadelphia works at the seams of postsecondary education, workforce development and community empowerment to address the immediate and long-term economic needs of families and households.

Overview and Impact

Graduate Philadelphia was the first organization in the county to align resources inside and outside of higher education specifically for adult learners to enroll in college, obtain industry-recognized credentials, and achieve family sustainable wages. Since 2005, Graduate Philadelphia has helped 18,000+ adults earn 10,000+ college credentials. According to initial research these adults will contribute roughly $120 million in taxes and earn $420 million in discretionary income.

In 2020, Graduate Philadelphia became a standalone 501(c)(3) non profit focusing on both higher education and workforce credentials. In 2020 we were one of 4 partners engaged in the City of Philadelphia’s first upskilling and reskilling response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Graduate Philadelphia continues its commitment to the adult learner postsecondary enrollment, credential completion and 21st century skills development. In partnership with the City of Philadelphia, our funders, and dedicated partners, Graduate Philadelphia remains at the forefront of transformative change that directly impacts the economic vitality of our city and region.

Become a Monthly Donor

Become a monthly donor and provide consistent support to our programs and initiatives. By making a recurring contribution, you ensure that adult learners have ongoing access to the resources they need to succeed.
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Partner with Us

Sponsorships & Institutional Support: Corporate sponsorships and institutional support play a vital role in expanding our reach and impact. Partner with us to create meaningful partnerships that benefit your organization and contribute to the growth and development of our community.
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