Opportunity Network
Mission
Opportunity Network’s mission is to drive equity across the education and career development landscape by creating access to college and careers for high potential students from low-income families. It has grown from assisting 10 students with a budget of $30,000 in 2003, to assisting over 8,000 students with a budget of $8.1m in 2020.
The Apax Foundation has supported Opportunity Network as part of its social mobility programme since 2013. Apax Partner Jason Wright joined the OppNet Board of Directors in 2004 and served as Chairman from 2011 to 2016. He was succeeded as Chairman by Apax Digital Managing Partner Dan O’Keefe, who joined OppNet’s Board in 2016.
Innovative education initiatives remain a priority for Apax and our charitable efforts. OppNet’s approach combining high quality programming with deep personal engagement has made a positive impact on the lives of so many promising young people. We are so proud to partner with OppNet to help expand their reach.
Dan O’Keefe
Managing Partner, Apax Digital & Chairman of OppNet’s Board
Why did you get involved with the Opportunity Network?
“Their mission really resonated with me - OppNet is a force multiplier for social mobility” – Pavithra Mahesh, Principal at Apax and a member of OppNet’s Associate Board
What makes their Programme so special?
“I truly believe the saying that "talent is equally distributed but opportunity is not." Oppnet helps even the playing field so talented students across NYC have the support and resources to achieve their goals” – Pavithra Mahesh, Principal at Apax and a member of OppNet’s Associate Board.
“The impact on the students is remarkable. Oppnet is changing young people’s lives in a tangible way – developing skillsets (career fluency), providing experience (internship program) and providing access to education (college guidance and transition).” – Jason Wright, Partner at Apax and former Chairman of OppNet’s Board
Why did you decide to focus your efforts on improving social mobility?
“I believe that there are so many talented young people that do not get the chance to fully realize their potential. Organizations such as Oppnet are helping to address this issue.” Jason Wright, Partner at Apax and former Chairman of OppNet’s Board
