AI Could Be the Solution to Bureaucratic Challenges, According to Expert Emilie Poteat of The Advocate

Founders’ Quest to Make Consumer Use Cases for AI a Reality

For years, founders have been trying to build practical consumer use cases for AI and machine learning. However, few have successfully cracked this nut. One startup that thinks it has found a solution is Advocate, an AI-focused company that aims to make applying for federal government benefits easier.

The Problem of Bureaucracy

Emilie Poteat, the founder of Advocate, was inspired by her stepfather’s experience trying to get social security benefits. Despite being eligible, he faced a complicated and time-consuming process. Years later, Poteat realized that AI could be used to improve this process.

The Potential of AI in Government Benefits

Poteat came on TechCrunch’s Found podcast to discuss why automating the application process using AI could help numerous people access government benefits more easily. She also talked about why government benefits is the perfect place to build an AI model due to its plethora of documentation, policies, and data that a closed-loop system could learn from.

The Benefits of Using AI in Government Benefits

Improved efficiency: AI can automate many tasks, freeing up resources for more complex issues.
Increased accuracy: By analyzing vast amounts of data, AI can reduce errors and ensure that applications are processed correctly.
Enhanced transparency: AI-powered systems can provide clear and concise information to applicants, making the process easier to understand.

Building a Relationship with the Government

Poteat discussed what it has been like chatting with the government about building a third-party add-on to their existing infrastructure. She also talked about why the government seems open to working with an outside organization instead of building out the tech itself.

The Benefits of Collaboration between Startups and Governments

Innovative solutions: By working together, startups can bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to government challenges.
Cost-effective: Outsourcing certain tasks or projects can save governments money and resources.
Improved efficiency: Collaborations can lead to more streamlined processes and reduced bureaucratic red tape.

The Company-Building Process for Advocate

Poteat talked about the company-building process for Advocate, which has not yet fully launched. She also discussed fundraising for the startup and how she had better luck with firms that want to back moonshots than she did with firms that focus on women and LGBTQ+ founders like herself.

The Importance of Building a Strong Team

Diverse perspectives: A diverse team can bring different ideas and approaches to solving problems.
Shared goals: When everyone is working towards the same objective, progress can be made more efficiently.
Support system: A strong team can provide support and encouragement during difficult times.

Future Plans for Advocate

Poteat hopes that eventually, the company will be able to help anyone who is eligible for any government benefit have an easier time applying. She plans to start expanding into more government benefit verticals shortly after launch.

The Potential Impact of AI in Government Benefits

Increased access: By making it easier to apply for benefits, more people can take advantage of them.
Improved outcomes: With AI-powered systems, applicants are more likely to receive the correct amount of benefits on time.
Enhanced public trust: When government services are efficient and effective, citizens are more likely to have faith in their institutions.

In conclusion, Advocate’s use of AI to improve government benefits is an exciting development. By leveraging technology to streamline processes and reduce bureaucracy, Poteat aims to make a significant impact on people’s lives. With its innovative approach and commitment to collaboration, Advocate has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with our governments.