The StreetSmart App is a groundbreaking civic-tech platform founded to address homelessness and income insecurity through intelligent financial tools and civic integration. Developed by a visionary social entrepreneur, the app leverages artificial intelligence, real-time budgeting, income forecasting, and benefit optimization to help unhoused and low-income individuals regain control over their financial lives.
At the core of StreetSmart is TheXDesk, a powerful financial analytics engine designed to integrate seamlessly with municipal, financial, and public service systems, enabling long-term, scalable impact. Users benefit from personalized budgeting advice, optimized access to government benefits, and secure document management — all within a user-friendly mobile interface.
StreetSmart goes beyond a simple finance app; it’s a comprehensive solution that connects users with nearby shelters, job centers, and social services, helping to bridge gaps between technology and human needs.
The app has earned recognition from leaders in civic innovation and technology, including mentorship from internet pioneer Vint Cerf and fellowships at Carnegie Mellon University. Supported by academic institutions and city governments, StreetSmart is poised to scale nationally as a vital public infrastructure for economic justice
The StreetSmart app offers a streamlined, intuitive interface built specifically to meet the needs of low-income and unhoused individuals. Upon opening the app, users are greeted with a real-time financial dashboard that provides an overview of their current funds, upcoming benefits, and actionable financial guidance. This dashboard is designed to be visually clear and easy to navigate, even for users with limited digital experience.
The app’s budgeting section categorizes income and expenses with user-friendly visuals and icons, making it simple to track spending habits and identify areas for adjustment. One of the app’s most impactful features is its benefit optimization tool, which helps users discover and access public assistance programs they may qualify for. This feature ensures that users can make the most of government and nonprofit resources available to them.
Additionally, StreetSmart includes an income forecasting module that projects financial trends and provides early warnings for potential shortfalls. This allows users to plan ahead and make informed decisions about their money.
At the core of the platform is TheXDesk, an integrated financial management system that brings together banking, budgeting, and benefit tracking into one seamless experience. With a focus on accessibility and empowerment, StreetSmart is designed to promote financial stability, independence, and long-term security.
Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Michigan
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“StreetSmart is the kind of grassroots innovation public policy needs to recognize more often. It empowers communities by connecting economic insight with local action. I see it as a practical, scalable model for driving inclusive, bottom-up development ”
Master’s in Public Policy, University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
“What impresses me about StreetSmart is how it blends data with empathy. It’s not just solving problems—it’s uncovering opportunities where others see limitations. That mindset is exactly what we’re taught to look for in business strategy. ”
Bachelor’s in Business Administration, University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
“StreetSmart has demonstrated a rare combination of strategic clarity and community relevance. It’s the kind of real-world application I challenge my students to aim for. There's tremendous value in the way it turns complex social issues into actionable, entrepreneurial solutions. ”
Instructor, Ross School of Business, University of Michigan
“StreetSmart reflects the agility and mission-driven focus that every startup should aspire to. It’s a living example of entrepreneurial thinking applied to real societal gaps. I see strong potential for replication and growth in other urban contexts. ”
Entrepreneur in Residence, Carnegie Mellon Tepper School of Business
“StreetSmart exemplifies how digital innovation can serve humanity at the street level. It leverages the connective power of the internet to uplift underserved communities in smart, scalable ways. I deeply admire its purpose-driven use of technology to bridge systemic divides. ”
Chief Internet Evangelist, Google