What Is Orijin?
Orijin is a groundbreaking educational platform designed specifically for justice-impacted individuals. Founded in 2014 as American Prison Data Systems (APDS), the company rebranded to Orijin™ in 2018 to better reflect its mission of transforming corrections for good. At its core, Orijin provides secure tablet computers connected to a robust cloud-based learning and communications platform. This tech-driven approach addresses some of the most pressing challenges faced by correctional facilities across the U.S., turning them into outcome-focused educational environments. Simply put, Orijin helps justice-impacted individuals gain essential skills for reentry, social integration, and long-term career sustainability.
Main Benefits of Orijin
Orijin’s impact is measurable and meaningful. Here are some key facts and figures that highlight its success:
- Ranked No. 4 in the Education category on Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024 list.
- Named a 2025 Innovator to Watch by Jobs for the Future (JFF).
- 15% of Orijin’s workforce is justice-impacted, reflecting a commitment to lived experience.
- Provides technology and services free of charge to learners, as a public benefit corporation.
- Partners with correctional facilities and employers to reduce recruitment and retention costs.
- Empowers learners to rewrite their life stories through education and sustainable employment.
Technology That Transforms Correctional Facilities
Orijin’s secure tablets and cloud-based platform are more than just tech tools—they’re game changers. Correctional facilities often struggle with limited resources and outdated systems, but Orijin’s solution brings modern, scalable technology right into the hands of learners. This not only enhances educational access but also streamlines communication and learning management within the facility. The platform’s design is tailored to meet the unique security and operational needs of correctional environments, making it a trusted partner in education innovation.
Empowering Justice-Impacted Individuals
At the heart of Orijin’s mission is a belief that every person has the potential to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. The platform equips justice-impacted individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to secure sustainable employment after reentry. But it’s not just about jobs—it’s about fostering social integration and helping learners build a foundation for long-term success. Orijin’s approach is holistic, focusing on rewriting life stories and opening doors to new opportunities.
A Leadership Team With Diverse Expertise
Orijin’s leadership is a diverse group of professionals with deep experience in education, technology, and social impact. This blend of perspectives drives innovation and ensures the company stays true to its mission. The team’s commitment is reflected in the company’s culture and operations, including the meaningful inclusion of justice-impacted individuals within its workforce. This diversity fuels creativity and empathy, making Orijin a leader in the ed tech space focused on corrections.
Orijin’s Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Quality Education (SDG 4): Providing accessible, high-quality learning opportunities for justice-impacted individuals.
- Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8): Preparing learners for sustainable employment and reducing barriers to workforce entry.
- Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10): Supporting marginalized populations through education and technology.
- Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9): Leveraging innovative technology to modernize correctional education.
- Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16): Promoting social integration and positive outcomes within the justice system.
Partnering for a Better Future
Orijin doesn’t work in isolation. The company partners with correctional facilities and employers to create a supportive ecosystem that benefits everyone involved. Facilities gain access to cutting-edge technology that meets their operational needs, while employers see reduced recruitment and retention costs thanks to better-prepared candidates. This collaborative approach ensures that justice-impacted individuals receive the tools and opportunities necessary to thrive beyond incarceration. It’s a win-win that’s reshaping how society views education and reentry.
