MACIR’s ELEVATE Named MIT Solve Winner; Earns $100,000 Citizens Workforce Innovation Prize

ELEVATE MIT Solve Winner: A National Milestone for Digital Equity

ELEVATE, which stands for Enhancing Literacy & Empowerment for Valued Access to Technology and Education, transforms public libraries into digital empowerment hubs. The model equips library staff with the systems, training, and resources they need to help residents succeed in today’s digital economy. The approach integrates device lending, public Wi-Fi access, digital literacy training, and AI-supported workforce tools, offering a scalable and sustainable solution to digital inequity while meeting communities exactly where they are.

“Libraries are trusted community anchors, but they’re often under-resourced for the digital demands residents face every day,” said Rachid Moukhabir, Founder of MACIR. “With ELEVATE, we give libraries the systems and support they need to close the digital divide and create new pathways to opportunity. Being selected by MIT Solve—out of nearly 3,000 global applicants—is a tremendous honor, and with the Citizens Workforce Innovation Prize, we are ready to scale this proven model to new communities nationwide.”

Why ELEVATE Stood Out at MIT Solve

This recognition reinforces ELEVATE’s potential to uplift communities nationwide by blending digital access, workforce preparation, and AI-enabled support through trusted community institutions like public libraries. MIT Solve’s selection highlights the model’s ability not only to expand digital literacy but also to strengthen local economies by equipping residents with the technical confidence needed for modern jobs, education, and lifelong learning. ELEVATE stands out because it provides a full ecosystem—not just tools, but training, guidance, and a roadmap for long-term digital success.

• MACIR’s leadership in the Digital Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (JEDI) initiative
• A successful ELEVATE pilot in Massachusetts
• New expansion efforts in Iowa
• Measurable digital literacy improvements among participants
• Scalable workforce readiness solutions for underserved communities

This recognition reinforces ELEVATE’s potential to uplift communities nationwide by blending digital access, workforce preparation, and AI-enabled support through trusted community institutions like public libraries.

Partners, Collaborators & Community Support

MACIR extends deep appreciation to the Lawrence Public Library, the Digital JEDI Consortium, the Massachusetts Broadband Institute, the MassHire Metro North Workforce Board, and the Essex County Community Foundation. Their collaboration and guidance have been essential in refining the ELEVATE model and preparing it for nationwide expansion. These partners have helped shape the initiative’s curriculum, support the integration of emerging technologies, and provide insight into workforce trends that affect thousands of residents across Massachusetts.

“Supporting the workforce of the future is central to Citizens’ commitment to our communities,” said Michelle Hecht, Head of Corporate Affairs at Citizens. “Through the Citizens Workforce Innovation Prize, we’re proud to help expand the impact of groundbreaking solutions like ELEVATE, which empower individuals with the skills and tools they need to succeed.”

As part of the award, ELEVATE will participate in MIT Solve’s nine-month support program, gaining access to expert mentorship, cross-sector partnerships, and global visibility. This support will allow MACIR to strengthen the platform, expand library training modules, integrate new AI-supported learning tools, and develop best practices for scaling the model in diverse communities across the country.

Call to Action: Scaling ELEVATE Nationwide by 2026

MACIR has set an ambitious goal to raise $1 million by the end of 2026 to scale the ELEVATE model across the U.S. These funds will support expanded curriculum development, library staff training, device distribution programs, and the continued enhancement of AI-enabled workforce preparation tools. The initiative aims to empower libraries to serve as long-term digital skill-building centers, ensuring that residents—regardless of age, income, or background—have access to the technology and support they need to thrive.

• Expanding library partnerships
• Enhancing ELEVATE’s library management software
• Training hundreds of Digital Navigators
• Delivering thousands of refurbished devices and hotspots
• Providing affordable internet options
• Embedding workforce development resources into community spaces

Corporations, universities, and public agencies are encouraged to donate used laptops and devices to directly support families and job seekers who need them most.

About MACIR

MACIR’s initiatives include the 8-Week Tech Support Job Program, the JEDI Digital Services Hub, the Digital Access Center, and large-scale device refurbishment and distribution programs. The Massachusetts Association for Computer & Internet Resources (MACIR) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering communities through technology. MACIR advances digital equity by expanding access to digital devices, improving digital literacy, and creating pathways to workforce readiness. Through strong partnerships, innovative programming, and community-centered solutions, MACIR continues to help residents build the confidence and skills necessary to participate fully in today’s connected world.

• Training individuals for tech careers
• Providing Digital Navigator support
• Expanding access to affordable internet
• Refurbishing and distributing devices
• Delivering workforce development programs

MACIR’s initiatives include the 8-Week Tech Support Job Program, the JEDI Digital Services Hub, the Digital Access Center, and large-scale device refurbishment and distribution programs.

Media Contact

Rachid Moukhabir
Email: info@macir.org
Web: macir.org