Strengthening Evidence: Support for RCTs to Evaluate Social Programs and Policies
Arnold Ventures funds rigorous RCTs to evaluate U.S. social programs or policies, aiming to generate actionable evidence that can inform and scale effective social policy solutions.
Funder: Arnold Ventures
Due Dates: March 6, 2026 (Letter of Interest) | June 26, 2026 (Full proposal for invited applicants)
Funding Amounts: No strict maximum; typical awards range from ~$250,000 to $1 million+ over 1–4 years, commensurate with project scope.
Summary: Supports rigorous RCTs to generate actionable evidence on social programs and policies with the potential for policy impact at scale.
Key Information: RCTs focused on criminal justice outcomes are not eligible under this RFP.
Description
Arnold Ventures' Strengthening Evidence initiative provides funding for researchers to conduct high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating U.S.-based social programs, policies, or interventions. The goal is to strengthen the evidence base for what works in social policy, guiding policymakers and practitioners toward effective, scalable solutions. The program seeks studies that demonstrate strong policy relevance, rigorous and feasible design, and readiness for real-world implementation. Projects should address pressing social issues, contribute to or replicate existing evidence, and articulate a clear pathway to policy or practice impact. While all social policy areas are eligible, RCTs focused primarily on criminal justice outcomes should apply under a separate RFP.
