Free tools for a better life, built with the people who use them.

Our mission

Apps for Change develops free mobile apps, educational tools, and community programs that promote self-advocacy, goal achievement, personal resilience, caregiver support, and community engagement. Our work aims to reduce poverty, dependence, and social despair. Every app and program is free.

Why I started Apps for Change

"I started Apps for Change because it was the most realistic way for me to make a difference in my community.

Before this, I spent years in Minnesota human services, working alongside people navigating disability, recovery, and complex support systems. I saw how often people needed simple, practical tools to plan their own lives and speak up for themselves.

I want people to have a free app that can help them improve their life. No strings attached."

— Sam, Founder and Executive Director

How we got here

Apps for Change began as a personal development framework built around eight areas of a balanced life: relationships, purpose, physical health, learning, service, environment, emotional well-being, and finances. What started as worksheets grew into digital tools.

Along the way, we saw gaps in Minnesota's disability services, where people needed better support for self-advocacy and clearer ways to plan their own lives. We built apps to fill those gaps, and the work grew from there.

What we believe

• Free means free. No ads, subscriptions, in-app purchases, or paywalls.
• Privacy comes first. Your information is never sold or used for ads.
• Independence over dependence. Technology should build your strength, not keep you scrolling. Every feature answers one question: does this help someone take the next step on their own?
• Built with community. The people who use our apps help shape them.
• Everyone belongs. We build for people of every background and ability, including people who don't consider themselves "tech people."

Accountability and transparency

Apps for Change is a Minnesota nonprofit corporation and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 41-4014098.

• Governed by a three-member Board of Directors that meets at least four times a year
• Bylaws that require input from community town halls to go to the Board
• No owners or shareholders. If we ever close, our bylaws require any remaining assets to go to other 501(c)(3) nonprofits or a public body, never to an individual.

Our bylaws, policies, and financial information are available on request at info@appsforchange.org.