How do I start a think tank?

Building a Think-and-Do Tank

1. Start fresh to stay fresh.
2. Articulate an inspiring and results-driven mission.
3. Begin with flexible money—but not too much.
4. Give great people plenty of freedom and responsibility.
5. Share leadership.
6. Share ideas early and often.
7. Don’t plan.
8. Partner with people, not organizations.

How do think tanks get funded?

Think-tank funding often includes a combination of donations from wealthy individuals and personal contributions, with many also accepting government grants. Think tanks publish articles, studies or even draft legislation on particular matters of policy or society.

How do think tanks operate?

Most think tanks focus on producing research publications and policy work, but some also host conferences and seminars and work closely with government and advocacy leaders to help advance their research and causes. Most think tanks are funded through private donations, grants and in some cases, public funds.

How are think tanks structured?

Members of a think tank spend their time researching problems they see facing the world and innovating new solutions to fix them. Think tanks do not create policy, but rather, bring new ideas and solutions to the table to enable change. They publish reports and research in order to help better inform policy decisions.

Can you start your own think tank?

You could start by studying and supporting policy decisions at the municipal level (maybe the municipality where the think tank is based), then move up to the city level and then aim for national politics.

Can a think tank be for profit?

Most think tanks in the United States are registered as non-profit organizations under section 501(c)3 of the US tax code. This status confers significant benefits but also comes with many limits regarding political activities.

How do I get into a think tank?

There are no specific routes of entry into think tanks. Typically, graduates begin as interns with a think-tank whilst at university, or move into the think tank sector following work experience elsewhere.

How can I start a small think tank in politics?

You could start by studying and supporting policy decisions at the municipal level (maybe the municipality where the think tank is based), then move up to the city level and then aim for national politics. Small is no less interesting nor less relevant.

Is it time to think of a new model for think tanks?

It is time to think of a new model for think tanks. One that takes full advantage of new digital tools and resources and some of the best practice from more established think tanks across the world. This, I believe, goes beyond new tools to do old things.

What is the purpose of think tanks in the US?

The original think-tanks in Washington DC (before 1980) was to house the loyal opposition while they were out of office. The Heritage Foundation and CSIS were re-tooled for the purpose of putting Reagan in office and supplying him with ideas. Heritage had over 10 thick volumes of specific plans for a conservative government.