Smarter Giving through Intelligent Agents

We are leveraging machine learning to build a fully automated platform for more effective investments in people. Our micro-scholarships are cash awards or vouchers designed to help students meet the everyday challenges associated with attending school. 

By reducing the everyday economic challenges associated with attending college, our micro-scholarships enable students to focus on their education and growth.

No Deadlines

Apply at anytime from anywhere; we do not have a committee of judges that needs to meet or wade through applications. Because our award process leverages a constant stream of data from the applicant and our decision agents run continuously, applicant scores are constant updated to reflect the most accurate picture of the applicant’s current need.

Distributions are made periodically throughout the year using the most recent scores. This enables aid decisions made throughout the year using the best available information.

Paperless

Applying for our micro-scholarships does not require lengthy essays, letters of recommendation, or certificates. The process is completely digital and uses a mixture of social, device, online-presence, and user-submitted information to make award decisions. The more information we can collect, the more accurate the score and score certainty.

Unbiased

Names, gender, location, other personally identifiable information as well as general application information can expose applicants to bias if exposed to human judges. While recognizing the potential for algorithmic bias, machine learning offers a path to ensuring decision neutrality in the scholarship evaluation and award process.

Eligibility

Every applicant has a living need score. Although the scoring process is algorithmic and based upon opt-in data, each applicant is required to meet the following criteria to be considered eligible for an award distribution:

• Must be accepted to an accredited university
• Must be registered for one or more technology related courses
• Must qualify for federal student aid

We are hoping to help students with strong moral character, ethical integrity, and an active interest in making the world a better place. Race, gender, gender-identity, cultural background, sexuality, and religion are not evaluated in our process.

Awards

As a completely digital foundation, our awards are distributed electronically. The identity of every applicant must be verified before they are eligible to receive a distribution. In addition, the distribution process may involve peer-to-peer payments, digital wallets, electronic fund transfers, and digital certificates. Applicants are notified electronically and maintain accurate contact information to ensure timely distribution.

About Us

Every student should have the opportunity to focus on their education and achievement while attending college

For nearly ten years, the Astrient Foundation has strived to reduce social inequality. Our classic programs include scholarships and fellowships for emerging-market students who demonstrate potential in the areas of social responsibility and entrepreneurship, an educational outreach program designed to promote the spirit of volunteering and the involvement in young people, and a Women's Initiative that strives to inspire the development of tomorrow's female leaders.