Flex Releases New Report on How App-Based Platforms Empower Entrepreneurs and Expand Access to Education

The final report in Flex’s “Scaling for Good” series, this issue brief examines how platforms provide business owners and students with the tools they need to thrive.

WASHINGTON — The Flex Association released a new issue brief today, “Scaling for Good: How App-Based Platforms Empower Entrepreneurship and Advance the Workforce of Tomorrow.” As a major and growing part of America’s economy, the app-based industry continues to create new pathways to entrepreneurship, support small businesses, and expand access to educational opportunities.  

The report details how members of the app-based industry are investing in small business owners and local enterprises through initiatives that provide mentorship, digital tools, and marketing support. Programs include accelerators for local businesses, grant funds for restaurants and small retailers, and technology platforms that help emerging brands reach new customers and scale their operations – helping businesses stay competitive in a digital-first marketplace.

“App-based platforms are more than just a ridesharing or delivery service – they are a launchpad for entrepreneurship, economic mobility, and community growth,” said Kristin Sharp, CEO of Flex. “By combining flexibility with real business and training opportunities, platforms are helping people turn ambition into reality.”

In addition to fostering entrepreneurship, the brief highlights how app-based platforms are expanding access to education, extracurricular activities for kids, and new career paths. Through strategic partnerships with educational institutions and workforce-development organizations, these platforms are connecting people to work and education opportunities better than ever before.

“By harnessing mobile technology, digital platforms are breaking down long-standing barriers and putting educational opportunities, extracurricular enrichment, and career-building internships directly into students’ hands,” added Sharp. “This is about expanding access, leveling the playing field, and ensuring every young person has the tools to reach their full potential.”

Visit the Flex website to read the full brief and learn about Flex members’ efforts to break down barriers for entrepreneurs, students, and communities.

About Flex. Flex is the voice of the app-based economy, representing America's leading app-based rideshare and delivery platforms and the people who count on them. Our member companies — DoorDash, Grubhub, HopSkipDrive, Instacart, Lyft, Shipt and Uber— help provide access to crucial goods and services to customers safely and efficiently, offer flexible earning opportunities to workers and support economic growth in communities across the country.