Innovative Approach Amidst Social Inequality: Granting Financial Foundations for Young Generations

In an effort to tackle growing inequality, America is drawing on social innovation, with the idea of "baby bonds" being one of these groundbreaking initiatives. This concept, a grant given to citizens at birth or maturity to be used for various purposes such as starting a business, buying a house, saving for retirement, or pursuing a college degree, is being experimented with in several countries.

California and Connecticut are leading the way in implementing the "baby bonds" policy in the United States. Kasey O'Connor, California's "HOPE" Executive Director, oversaw the development of the initiative in her previous role as California Treasurer's legislative director. Erick Russell, Connecticut State Treasurer, is overseeing the implementation of the program in his state.

The UK experimented with a similar idea - the Child Trust Fund - in the early 2000s. Julian Le Grand, a professor at the London School of Economics' Marshall Institute and one of the founders of the UK's Child Trust Fund scheme, will be sharing his insights at the conference.

Joining Le Grand will be Niels Planel, a visiting professor at the Sciences Po's School of Management and Impact, who has been focusing on research and publications about the "baby bonds" policy. Juliette Anvroin, the Program Lead for the Youth Emancipation Income introduced in the fall of 2024 by the Department of Meurthe-et-Moselle in France, will also be present, offering valuable perspectives on the policy's implementation in Europe.

Sciences Po's Impact Studio and School of Public Affairs are gathering these leaders who are pioneering the "baby bonds" innovation for an exceptional conference. Whether you're interested in policy development, social innovation, or reducing inequality, this conference promises to be an enlightening event.

Registration for the conference is now open, with both in-person and online options available. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the experts and contribute to the conversation about the future of "baby bonds" and its potential impact on reducing inequality. A brand new joint report on tackling inequality from the Impact Studio and Sens Public has been released and will be discussed during the conference.

Join us as we explore the exciting world of "baby bonds" and its potential to create a more equitable future for all.