Throughout 2022, researchers at the Institute for Economic and Racial Equity (IERE) within the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University evaluated the BabySteps Savings Plan. The evaluation examined how BabySteps has affected 529 enrollment in low-income communities throughout Massachusetts, how families of eligible children are experiencing the program, and what barriers keep families from enrolling and engaging with the program. The final report, which includes the evaluation's outcomes and comprehensive recommendations for improving the program, was submitted in January 2023.
Following an evaluation of the BabySteps Savings Plan, this report provides an analysis on the effectiveness of the program and offers comprehensive recommendations to improve future outreach and enrollment.