What does it take to deliver $270 million in aid—securely, quickly, and with dignity—to people who need it most?

In this episode, I’m joined by Brittany Christenson, CEO of AidKit, whose platform has processed over 500,000 applications and is redefining how public benefits are delivered.

We talk about why dignity must be at the heart of aid delivery, and Brittany’s incredible journey from mathematics and organic farming to leading one of Fast Company’s “World Changing Ideas.”

See her bio below:

Brittany Christenson is the CEO of AidKit, a Public Benefits Corporation that helps government agencies and nonprofits administer aid programs efficiently and transparently. As CEO, she sets the company’s strategic direction, drives technology innovation and cultivates partnerships to transform aid delivery into an empowering act of community care.

Appointed CEO in 2023, Brittany previously served as AidKit’s director of partnerships and program development, where she played a key role in expanding the company’s impact through collaborations with governments and nonprofits nationwide. Recognized for her strategic vision and commitment to a people-centered approach, she has created a high-trust, data-driven culture that strengthens AidKit’s ability to provide critical relief in response to public health emergencies, natural disasters and financial hardships.

Since its founding in 2021, AidKit has helped over 200 agencies and nonprofits process over 500,000 applications and distribute more than $290 million in disaster relief, public benefits and cash assistance to more than 90,000 recipients.

Prior to joining AidKit, Brittany served as the executive director of AdkAction, a regional nonprofit focused on food security and community development. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she played a key role in launching one of the first pilots for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program’s (SNAP) online payments, expanding access to essential resources for low-income families. This experience sparked her passion for leveraging technology to drive systemic change.

Earlier in her career, Brittany managed a 90-acre organic vegetable farm, overseeing logistics and operations while deepening her commitment to food justice. Her journey into social impact began after pursuing graduate studies in epigenetics at McGill University. She also holds a degree in applied mathematics from Carroll College in Helena, Mont., where she developed a strong foundation in problem-solving and data analysis.

She currently serves as chair of the advisory board for the Cloudsplitter Foundation in New York, reinforcing her dedication to community-driven solutions.