Empower Work is a CTIA Wireless Catalyst 2026 Winner
CTIA Wireless Foundation announced its Catalyst 2026 Winners, recognizing Empower Work as an innovator in mobile-first solutions that enhance lives. Catalyst is a competitive grants program for social entrepreneurs using next-generation wireless technology to deliver solutions to the challenges impacting American communities.
SMS and mobile-first technology is critical to supporting the communities we serve. People need to stay connected to receive essential job resources and to stay in contact with support systems during their toughest moments. Through Empower Work, workers always have human support available in their back pocket.
“Mobile-first technology is crucial to Empower Work's solution because it meets the workers we serve where they are,” said Jaime-Alexis Fowler, Founder and CEO of Empower Work. “Their phone isn't a convenience; it's their portal to support. Wireless technology makes it possible to deliver real-time, human-centered guidance exactly when a vulnerable worker needs it most: between shifts, before a hard conversation, in the middle of a crisis.”
Since launching in 2018, we’ve supported over half a million workers, with 90% reporting improved mental health, and 80% reporting improved economic well-being.
We are thrilled to support over half a million people navigating tough work challenges. People like HB; a working mom who felt unhappy and stuck at her job, and reached out to a peer counselor through text.
"I wanted support in figuring out what I can shoot for when any other choice I make is going to have an impact on my kids’ lives[...]Being able to have a quick text conversation on a bus spurred me to feel like I could ask for what I wanted and needed in this job opportunity. My kids can probably pick up on that I’m happier. And most importantly, I love my job. I’m so glad to be able to say that again,” HB shared.
Mobile solutions are improving lives, and wireless infrastructure needs to keep up with the growing need for mobile accessibility. The CTIA foundation recognizes this, and is pushing legislation on the hill to meet the moment. Their team has done a tremendous job to elevate innovative wireless solutions that are changing people's lives. The winning organizations came together in D.C. to show lawmakers the value in wireless infrastructure investment, push for spectrum allocation, and policies that make accessing our solutions available to more Americans.
We are honored to be recognized by CTIA Wireless Foundation alongside incredible organizations—Free World, Cope Notes, and Oben Health. Thank you to the CTIA Wireless Foundation team for their tireless efforts to elevate innovative wireless solutions changing people's lives.