Fact Sheet

Year Founded: 2000

Year Programs Began: 2002

About Us
Upwardly Global is an innovative national nonprofit organization dedicated to the effective integration of skilled immigrants into the professional U.S. workforce. The organization equips highly skilled immigrants to rebuild their professional careers in the United States by providing U.S. job-search training and access to professional networks. Upwardly Global also works with employers to recognize and access this untapped and experienced talent pool. By ensuring we successfully integrate the international talent already in the U.S., we are strengthening the country’s ability to compete globally and preserving its heritage as a nation of immigrants.

Our Mission
To eliminate employment barriers for skilled immigrants and refugees and integrate this population into the professional U.S. workforce.

Our Vision
A United States where skilled new Americans are a recognized and valued source of talent.

Why We Exist - The Opportunity
There are more than 1.5 million skilled immigrants in the United States who are college-educated, have the legal right to work, and are unemployed or underemployed.  These individuals were doctors, engineers, scientists and teachers in their home country, yet they work as cashiers, nannies, security guards and cab drivers in the U.S. as a result of barriers to entering their professional fields here.

Our Programs

• Job Seeker Services: training for skilled refugees, asylees and immigrants to overcome barriers to professional employment through job search and career preparedness and training.
• Employer Network: partnering with employers to raise awareness of the skilled immigrant population and increase the integration of these professionals into the mainstream workforce.
• Influence and Change: generating information and educating decision-makers in government and industry about barriers preventing skilled immigrants from successfully integrating into the professional workforce.

Leadership
Nikki Cicerani, Executive Director

Our national efforts are guided by an experienced and knowledgeable Board of Directors. View their profiles online.

Financial Support – Funding Sources

2010 Major Funders

Carson Family Charitable Trust
Kellogg Foundation
Peery Foundation
Robin Hood Foundation
State of Illinois
Weinberg Foundation

2010 At a Glance

• 489 skilled immigrants completed training
• 240 skilled immigrants re-entering their professional careers
• Created additional $8.4M income to immigrant families across country
• 236 new employers engaged
• 1200 active volunteers providing one-to-one coaching (6 full-time equivalents)
• 4708 dependents’ lives improved

Overall Impact

• More than 2,800 skilled immigrants trained
• More than 900 skilled immigrants re-entering their professional careers
• More than $70M in additional income to immigrant families*
  *Estimate based on average salary after placement, 80% 1^st-year retention and annual 3% increase

Locations

Upwardly Global has offices in Chicago, New York and San Francisco.
Read more about our results and impact.
Learn more about our Employer Network.