Our story: empowering
Head Start & CAP agencies with purpose-driven technology
At GoEngage, our mission is simple: to empower Head Start and Community Action Agencies (CAP) with intuitive, affordable software solutions that drive efficiency and amplify community impact. Founded by Lihong Ma, our company’s roots are grounded in a powerful story of resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of underserved children and families.
The vision behind GoEngage
Lihong Ma: From adversity to empowerment
Lihong Ma’s story begins in rural China, where he was born into poverty. His parents were uneducated, working multiple jobs to support their family. As the oldest of four children, Lihong faced overwhelming challenges, including famine, local gangs, and a life where opportunities seemed scarce. But even as a young child, Lihong dreamed of breaking the cycle of poverty. His desire to escape his circumstances drove him to study relentlessly, believing that education was the key to a better life.
Lihong shared, “I wish there was a program like Head Start when I was younger. Often my siblings and I didn’t have enough to eat…”
The early years: from the classroom to the technology frontier
In the early 1990s, after completing his Master’s, Lihong began working with a small firm called ITI (Information Technology Incorporated). It was there that he first encountered the Head Start space and became passionate about the impact of early childhood education. His first major assignment was to work on a research project for the Comprehensive Child Development Program (CCDP), aimed at supporting children from birth to age three. This project eventually laid the groundwork for Early Head Start.
Lihong was hired as the first software engineer to develop a database system for CCDP, enabling both service providers and the federal government to track data for 24 pilot programs nationwide. This was the beginning of his career in Head Start technology, and it sparked a lifelong commitment to supporting Head Start programs and their mission.
The birth of Cleverex: a vision realized
In 1997, Lihong’s journey took a pivotal turn. After years of working on government contracts, Lihong was faced with the end of the HSFIS contract at EAI. The National Office, however, had developed a deep trust in his work. They asked Lihong to continue developing the Head Start Family Information System (HSFIS) after his company lost interest in the project.
Our broader impact: projects that made a difference
Since the 1990s, Cleverex has built and contributed to many projects that support the Head Start and Community Action sectors. Below are some of the notable projects we’ve developed over the years that have helped shape the landscape of early childhood education and community programs:
Contract/Partnership
Project(s)
U.S. Department of Education Contract (1998-2000)
U.S. Department of Education Contract (1998-2000)
State of Maryland Contract (2003-2012)
State of Maryland Contract (2003-2012)
Subcabinet for Children, Youth & Families Information System (SCYFIS)
Subcabinet for Children, Youth & Families Information System (SCYFIS)
Office of Head Start Contracts (2004-2021)
Early Childhood Learning and Knowledge Center (ECLKC), 2004-2021
Head Start Family Information System (HSFIS), 1997-2004
Transportation Pathfinder, 2003-2010
Grant Application Budgeting Instruments (GABI), 2003-2004
Program Review Instruments for Systems Monitoring (PRISM), 2003-2004
Head Start Fiscal Assistant, 2002-2004
Family League of Baltimore City Contract (2003-2012)
Service Management And Research Tracking (SMART)
Western Governor's Association Contract (1999-2003)
Health Passport Project (HPP)
These projects are just a few examples of our long-standing commitment to supporting the Head Start community and improving the operational efficiencies of the agencies that serve them. Our expertise in developing tailored solutions for complex challenges is a testament to our deep understanding of the unique needs of these programs.
The evolution of our products: from HSFIS to GoEngage
Our journey has been marked by a dedication in developing innovative and affordable software solutions that empower Head Start and Community Action Agencies. Our products have evolved over the years to meet the unique needs of these programs, each rebrand and iteration reflecting our ongoing commitment to providing the most effective tools available.
Our product journey: a timeline of innovation
HSFIS
(Head Start Family Information System)
1997-2004
The free solution provided by the government for Head Start programs to manage child and family data.
PROMIS
(Program Resources Outcomes Management Information System)
2004-2016
Rebranded from HSFIS to focus on program management, outcomes tracking, and resource allocation, providing Head Start agencies with tools to measure impact and meet federal requirements.
myHeadStart, myCAP
2016-2022
Rebranded to focus on community-driven solutions, emphasizing family engagement, enrollment, and child development, providing a more personalized approach.
GoEngage
2022-Present
A unified platform for family engagement, data management, compliance tracking, and case management, providing seamless, technology-enhanced solutions for Head Start and CAP programs.
Why we evolved: the need for change
The rebranding of our products from HSFIS to GoEngage is more than just a name change; it reflects our continuous evolution to meet the needs of Head Start programs. As the landscape of early childhood education and family services grew more complex, we knew that our software had to evolve as well.
Each product in our journey has been designed with a single purpose: to provide Head Start and Community Action Agencies with affordable, easy-to-use solutions that simplify their work and amplify their impact. Our commitment to innovation is deeply tied to the changing needs of our clients, and this evolution is proof of our relentless drive to improve the tools that help organizations thrive.
Our commitment to Head Start
& Community Action agencies
From the beginning, Cleverex was built to serve Head Start programs and CAP agencies—the very programs Lihong felt a deep connection to because of his own experiences with poverty and the power of education. The company’s focus was always on creating solutions that empowered these agencies to achieve their missions more effectively and efficiently.
Today, with the leadership of Michael Ma (CEO/CTO) and Angela Ma (COO), Lihong’s children, the company continues to carry the torch of innovation. Michael and Angela, with experience working in Hollywood and Silicon Valley, were inspired to return to their roots and continue their father’s mission of serving those who serve others. In 2024, they officially joined the leadership team at GoEngage, bringing new ideas and energy to the company’s ongoing journey.
Michael Ma
CEO/CTO
Angela Ma
COO
Our core values: guiding us in every step
At GoEngage, our core values are at the heart of everything we do. These values guide our decisions, our culture, and our relationships with clients and partners.
Core value
What it means to us
01
Customer-Centric Excellence
We build lasting partnerships by treating every customer as a valued individual and delivering tailored solutions that exceed their expectations.
02
Relentless Innovation
We pioneer cutting-edge solutions by fostering a culture of constant improvement, to help agencies stay ahead in a rapidly evolving world.
03
Empathy & Understanding
We listen deeply and act with empathy, recognizing that true innovation begins with understanding the challenges of those we serve.
04
Integrity
We operate with the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency and responsibility in every decision we make.
05
Collaboration & Partnership
We believe in working closely with agencies, each other, partners, and communities, fostering open communication and collaboration to achieve shared goals.
Our mission: helping agencies thrive
At GoEngage, we understand that Head Start programs face unique challenges. Our mission is to equip them with innovative, affordable software solutions that streamline data management, ensure compliance, and amplify community impact. By offering a single, integrated platform, we empower agencies to focus on what truly matters: serving children and families.
Mission
What it means to us
Unified Data Management
Manage every aspect of your program—from enrollment to reporting—through one seamless platform.
Comprehensive Compliance
Stay fully compliant with federal regulations, including PIR tracking and reporting.
Affordable Solutions
We offer transparent, budget-friendly pricing to help agencies reinvest their resources into their programs.
Community Impact
Our team is dedicated to giving back, providing affordable tools that help agencies achieve their missions.
The difference: people first, always
At Cleverex, we pride ourselves on being more than just a technology provider. We are a team of passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference in the communities we serve. Many of our team members have direct experience with Head Start—either as staff, volunteers, or parents—giving us a unique perspective on the needs and challenges these programs face.
Sari – Head Start mom and GoEngage leadership team member
“Joining GoEngage was a dream come true. My children grew up in a Head Start family, and it feels amazing to contribute to a company that helps children and families thrive.”
Jose – Head Start dad, Head Start center manager, and now GoEngage Solutions Advisor
“My siblings attended Head Start (I was too old by the time my parents learned about Head Start). But all 3 of my children attended Head Start, where I was an active member of the policy council, and eventually hired by the agency. I wouldn’t be where I am without the Head Start program.”
Meet the family behind GoEngage
Our family is grateful for the opportunity to assist those working to break the cycle of poverty. GoEngage is our pride and joy.
Join the family
At GoEngage, we’re building a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about empowering Head Start and CAP agencies. Whether you’re looking for an affordable, all-in-one software solution or want to join a company that values integrity and impact, GoEngage welcomes you.