Civilla is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming public-serving institutions and services through human-centered design. Based in Detroit, it works with government agencies and community partners to make systems more effective, compassionate, and accessible. Its multidisciplinary team brings together research, design, and strategy, with a long-term ambition to improve the lives of one billion people.

Civilla’s projects focus on practical improvements to how people interact with public services. These include simplifying benefits applications, creating easier online enrollment, redesigning DMV mailings for greater clarity and efficiency, and helping people access education and unemployment-related opportunities. For example, its work helped shorten the country’s longest benefits application by 80%, while Michigan residents can now apply for benefits and connect with additional resources in under 20 minutes. The organization also shares stories, insights, and tools to support public-sector transformation, including resources for community partners and guidance on improving government services. Through collaborative design and structural change, Civilla aims to help institutions better serve the people who depend on them.