Removing Barriers.
Building Futures.
Our Mission
Paid to Rise is a bold initiative of Top Speed Career, a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to expanding access to workforce opportunity.
We believe no one should have to choose between survival and self-improvement. That’s why we provide stipends, mentorship, and AI-powered support to help learners from underserved communities stay enrolled and succeed in high-demand training programs.
Workforce-Driven ProgramsDelivered by our accredited training partner, Westlink Academy, our curriculum is built in collaboration with employers and aligned to industry certifications.Stipends for Real LifeWe provide milestone-based stipends to help cover the essentials: food, child care, transit, and time. This keeps learners focused on finishing — not just starting.Smart SupportWe’re bringing AI literacy into underserved communities. From coaching learners on resume writing with AI, to integrating support bots into training, we’re testing what works to enhance—not replace—human potential.Mentorship MattersThrough our partnership with Benevity, our learners connect with volunteer mentors from global companies — building both confidence and networks.Our stipend and support model is designed to be replicable across regions, with tech-enabled delivery that ensures cost-effective expansion while maintaining a high-touch learner experience.
Our Impact So Far
Who We Serve
We focus on economically underserved adults — including single parents, veterans, first-generation learners, and returning citizens. Many of our students are working two jobs, raising families, or navigating personal crises.
— they lack margin. We give them breathing room to grow.”
Rise with AI
As AI transforms the job market, we’re launching AI literacy workshops across our programs — training learners, instructors, and mentors to use tools like ChatGPT to:
- Write better resumes
- Understand technical concepts
- Practice for interviews
- Create study guides
- Build confidence in a changing world
Our SupportersWe’re proud to be listed on Benevity, the giving platform trusted by over 900 companies. We’re building strategic relationships with donors and partners aligned with equity, economic opportunity, and responsible innovation — including:
“Because of Paid to Rise, I could focus on my training without worrying about childcare. I earned my first tech certification and landed a job in under 3 months.”
— Alicia, Cybersecurity Graduate
“The mentorship changed my life. It wasn’t just about jobs. It was someone who believed in me.”
— Warren, IT Graduate