How we came to be
In January 2023, a group of like-minded organizations and thinkers from across the nation gathered in Dallas, Texas to explore the creation of a multi-state network that would collaborate to advance the use of data and research to inform state policy. The goal of the convening was to build shared knowledge of efforts already underway in the participating states and to conceptualize how a network might contribute value to individual and collective work.
In March 2023, a volunteer working group launched with the purpose of developing the operating model and governance structure for what would become States for the Future. This working group was composed of attendees from the January convening and collaborated monthly to design and develop a shared vision for the Network’s values and activities.
Starting the Fall of 2023, States for the Future continues this journey, inviting organizations from across the nation to gather, learn from one another, and collectively build our capacity to use data and research to drive state policy.
We strive to be a community garage that collectively crafts solutions
We envision States for the Future as a “Community Garage” for data-driven policy, where members with varying levels of experience, capacity, and interest come together around their common goals and have a shared space for learning, collaboration, and resource sharing.
- Learning: Offer virtual and in-person learning opportunities like an annual convening, webinars, and discussion series to learn from one another and other experts.
- Collaboration: Foster a network of organizations to work together to strengthen each other’s efforts by sharing information, resources, and expertise. Through collaboration, our network is a force multiplier for our work in our individual states.
- Resource Sharing: Develop and contribute to our shared resources and tools to empower members in their respective domains. Members can leverage the Network’s Data Platform to explore and visualize indicators across states and policy areas.
Empowering states for a resilient future: uniting data, research, and action
As labs of democracy, states are leading the way in creating policies that impact the lives of their citizens and respond to a rapidly changing world. States for the Future believes that by using trusted data and research to inform policymaking, our individual states can develop solutions that lead to better outcomes for our residents, and ultimately our nation as a whole. By working together, we aim to learn from one another, build on each other’s work, and drive greater demand for evidence-based policymaking. Together, we leverage the power of data and research in policy-making to create sustainable futures.
Join us on our journey
We invite you to explore our website and data platform and keep an eye out for monthly opportunities to gather virtually and hear from one another. States for the Future is also planning an in-person convening in early 2024 with details to be released soon.
Have questions or want to get involved? Contact us at info@statesforthefuture.org