Strengthening Evidence: Support for RCTs to Evaluate Social Programs and Policies
Supports rigorous RCTs evaluating U.S. social programs and policies to generate actionable, policy-relevant evidence that strengthens the evidence base for effective interventions.
Funder: Arnold Ventures
Due Dates: March 6, 2026 (Letter of Interest) | June 26, 2026 (Full proposal for invited applicants)
Funding Amounts: No fixed limit; typical awards range from ~$250,000 to $1.5M over 2–5 years, based on project scope and needs.
Summary: Supports rigorous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating U.S. social programs and policies to generate actionable, policy-relevant evidence.
Key Information: Only RCTs of U.S.-based social programs (excluding criminal justice) are eligible; updated indirect cost policy applies.
Description
Arnold Ventures’ Evidence & Evaluation team invites proposals for rigorous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluate social programs and policies in the United States. The goal is to strengthen the evidence base of effective interventions by funding research that produces actionable, credible causal evidence to inform policy decisions and improve outcomes for individuals, families, and communities. Projects should demonstrate strong policy relevance, robust and transparent study designs, and feasible implementation in real-world settings. The opportunity is open to studies across all social policy areas, except those primarily focused on criminal justice outcomes (which are covered by a separate RFP).
