We Believe Technology Should Serve the Public Good
Civic Labs is a public benefit corporation—a new kind of company legally committed to creating positive impact for society, not just shareholders.
Build technology that strengthens democracy and empowers communities
We create open-source tools and platforms that help citizens engage with their government, access essential services, and participate meaningfully in democracy. Every line of code we write is designed to serve the public interest.
A world where technology amplifies citizen voice and agency
We envision a future where digital tools are designed for citizens, not consumers. Where technology strengthens rather than undermines trust in institutions. Where every community has access to the digital infrastructure they need to thrive.
What Is a Public Benefit Corporation?
A Public Benefit Corporation (PBC) is a legal corporate structure that requires directors to balance the interests of shareholders with the interests of those materially affected by the corporation's conduct—including communities, employees, and the environment.
Unlike traditional corporations (which must maximize shareholder value) or nonprofits (which can't accept equity investment), PBCs can raise capital while staying true to their mission. This makes us sustainable and scalable while remaining accountable to our public benefit purpose.
Legally required to consider public benefit
Can accept investment and generate revenue
Annual reporting on social impact
Our Values
These principles guide every decision we make and every product we build.
Citizens First
Every decision we make prioritizes the needs of citizens over profit margins. We measure success by impact, not revenue.
Open Source
Our code is open, auditable, and available for communities to adapt. Transparency isn't just a value—it's how we operate.
Privacy by Design
We collect only what's necessary and protect it fiercely. Your data belongs to you, not to advertisers.
Equitable Access
Technology should serve everyone equally. We design for accessibility, offline use, and low-bandwidth environments.
Community-Driven
We don't build in isolation. Every project starts with listening to the communities we aim to serve.
Mission Over Margin
As a public benefit corporation, we're legally bound to consider impact alongside profit. Mission always comes first.
Building Momentum
Founded as a public benefit corporation in Delaware
Launched first project: Open Democracy Platform pilot
Received seed funding from Knight Foundation
Expanded to 5 active projects serving 50,000+ users
Grew team to 12 full-time staff
Launched Community Resource Hub in 8 counties
Reached 100,000+ citizens served milestone
Meet the Team
Dedicated professionals committed to building technology for the public good.
Sarah Chen
Executive Director
Former civic tech lead at Code for America. 15 years building technology for government and nonprofits.
Marcus Williams
Chief Technology Officer
Open source advocate and former Mozilla engineer. Passionate about privacy-preserving technology.
Elena Rodriguez
Director of Partnerships
Background in foundation philanthropy and government relations. Connects Civic Labs with impact-driven funders.
David Park
Lead Product Designer
Human-centered design expert. Previously designed accessible government services at USDS.
Aisha Johnson
Community Director
Grassroots organizer turned technologist. Ensures our work is guided by community voices.
Advisory Board
Dr. Jennifer Walsh
Professor of Digital Government, MIT
Robert Kim
Former CTO, City of Boston
Maria Santos
Executive Director, National Civic League
Thomas Wright
Partner, Democracy Fund
Join Us in Building a Better Digital Future
Whether you want to support our mission, partner on a project, or join our team—we'd love to hear from you.