Results First: Looking Back and Moving Forward

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Projects: Results First
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Results First: Looking Back and Moving Forward

The Results First initiative launched in 2010 to help states understand and incorporate evidence use into their budgeting and policymaking processes. By 2017, Results First had partnered with 27 states throughout the country, and by 2019, these states had shifted more than $1 billion toward effective, evidence-based programs.

"Results First has had a lasting impact in states and in the field of evidence-based policymaking. I think when you look across states, you can really see the seeds that have been planted, when you look at the variety of things that states are doing to use evidence and data."

Kristine Goodwin, Director Center for Results-Driven Governing, National Conference of State Legislatures

Over the past 12 years, evidence-based policymaking at the state level has changed dramatically. There is better understanding, broader support, and greater use of evidence by state leaders. In addition, there are more organizations that work with states to advance their evidence-based policymaking efforts. Given these improvements, Results First will step aside and exit the field in March 2023.

"I think we're at a point where evidence-based policy isn't really a novelty anymore. We really want to make sure that it's part of how we operate. It's part of the infrastructure. It's part of just the normal process of what we do in the governor's office in developing the budget."

Edmond Toy, Chief of Staff Colorado Governor’s Office of State Planning and Budgeting

This video looks back at the Results First initiative’s work with states over the past 12 years and previews what’s next for the evidence-based policymaking field.

"When I reflect back on Results First, the ultimate legacy is not about the wonky conversations, not about how do we build better budgets. The legacy is ultimately about helping people and resources directed to programs and policies that work, and the opportunity to make people's lives better."

Max Crowley, Director Evidence-to-Impact Collaborative, Penn State University