10 GROUNDCOVER NEWS BASELINE REPORT How are people using the money so far? Continued from pg. 8 The researchers’ interviews with participants show that the $528 a month has provided a helpful financial cushion, allowing participants to worry a little bit less about having the money for their monthly bills. However, many participants realized that the funds could be used to expand or grow their entrepreneurial work. “I'm thinking, yes, this money had to go for bills,” one participant shared. “But, I'm thinking, if I make this work in the right way, I won't have to worry about that.” Another participant described how the extra funding allowed her to practice money management and finance prioritization. “I'm really trying to use [the $528] towards my business. I'm trying to discipline myself,” the person said. “Like, no, we don't have this extra money just to go spend, it’s to spend on the entrepreneurial stuff that you want to do, your business.” One participant shared that she is now able to save up for the food truck she dreamed of. “I want a food truck. It's going to be called ‘Because Sandwiches,’” she shared enthusiastically. Prior to receiving the $528 a month, most of her money went to basic necessities. While that still happens on occasion, “having access to GIG A2 has allowed me to actually seek out ways to advance my business goal,” she told the interviewer. What’s next? The research team is analyzing data from the survey and in-depth interviews and will share those findings later this year. GIG A2 participants will complete a final survey when the pilot ends. The research team is trying to see whether the monthly guaranteed income payments: 1. Improve people’s health through increased housing, food and transportation security, improvements in physical and mental health and access to care, and improvements in access and quality of child care; 2. Help small businesses and entrepreneurs stabilize and/or grow their businesses; and 3. Allow entrepreneurs the time and resources to focus on their business. Only with the best possible research can people make a strong argument to policymakers about expanding guaranteed income in the future. GIG A2 is an important contribution to the broader guaranteed income movement. The GIG A2 team would like to thank the following partners and advisors for their support in developing and administering the pilot program: MAY 2 2025 EXPRESS YOUR YES FOUNDATION
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